Chicken Cashew Casserole
A hearty and creamy casserole combining tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and savory mushroom soup, accented with crisp chow mein noodles and fresh celery and onion. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserving half of the chow mein noodles and cashew nuts, mix all ingredients in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining noodles and nuts on top.
- Dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce if preferred. For a twist, add some cooked rice or quinoa to the mixture. If you want a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This recipe is similar to other comforting American recipes, making it a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Cashew Casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with homemade bread or rolls. For a more filling option, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it's easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cashew Casserole contains roughly 1128 calories, with 17g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1394mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cutting it into chunks. This will help the casserole heat evenly during baking.
What can I substitute for the chow mein noodles?
If you can't find chow mein noodles, feel free to use crushed potato chips or even crispy fried onions as a topping. These alternatives will provide a similar crunch and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).