Chinese Cashew Casserole
A savory Chinese-inspired casserole featuring tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and flavorful mushrooms, baked with a creamy sauce and topped with crispy chow mein noodles, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cooked chicken, broken cashew nuts, diced celery, diced onion, mushroom soup, chicken broth or water, and pepper in a greased 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Mix lightly until well combined.
- Sprinkle with half of the chow mein noodles and then top with the remaining noodles.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation. If cashews are unavailable, almonds or peanuts can work well as alternatives. For added flavor, try incorporating soy sauce or sesame oil into the mixture. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with steamed white rice or a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the dish. Adding a light soy sauce drizzle can enhance the flavor profile. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Hot And Sour Soup(Makes 8 To 12 Servings) or a vegetable stir-fry. It’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be cautious not to overheat to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Cashew Casserole contains roughly 354 calories, with 10g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 929mg per serving (40% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use canned mushroom soup, you can make a homemade version by sautéing fresh mushrooms with flour, milk, and seasonings until thickened. This adds a fresh flavor and allows you to control the ingredients and seasoning levels.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. It retains its flavors well after freezing.
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).