Chicken Cashew Noodles
Creamy chicken and cashew noodles combine tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and flavorful vegetables in a hearty baked dish perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with one can of chow mein noodles.
- Mix together cubed cooked chicken, diced celery, chopped green onion, cream of chicken soup, and milk.
- Spoon the mixture over the noodles in the baking dish.
- Cover with the remaining can of chow mein noodles and sprinkle cashews on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger to the chicken mixture. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce or a vegan alternative if desired. If you want to add more vegetables, bell peppers or peas work well. Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned before mixing to enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it with rice for an extra filling option. For a refreshing contrast, a fruit salad or a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of Chicken Cashew Noodles.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cashew Noodles contains roughly 1104 calories, with 27g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (66% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1195mg per serving (52% 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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to the dish. Just ensure it is shredded or cubed before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for cashews?
If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can provide a nice crunch. Alternatively, if you have allergies, you could simply omit the nuts altogether, and the dish will still be delicious.
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).