Chinese Chicken Microwave
A quick and flavorful Chinese-inspired chicken dish featuring vegetables, cashews, and crispy chow mein noodles, perfect for a satisfying and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken in microwave for 10 minutes on High; cool and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine all ingredients in a 2-quart casserole; cook on High for 8 minutes, covered.
- Let stand for 3 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce or ginger before microwaving. If cashews aren't available, peanuts or almonds can serve as a tasty substitute. Enhance the dish with additional vegetables like carrots or snow peas, or use a low-sodium mushroom soup for a healthier option. This recipe is also a great base for adding other proteins or adjusting seasonings to personal taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chinese Chicken with steamed rice or fried rice to complete the meal. A side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad can add a nice crunch and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Chinese Chicken for a full spread. Garnish with extra pimentos or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the Chinese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. For best results, avoid overheating as it may dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Chicken Microwave contains roughly 1281 calories, with 42g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (86% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1027mg per serving (45% 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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they will need additional cooking time in the microwave. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. It's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking.
What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?
If you don't have chow mein noodles, you can substitute with crispy fried noodles or even serve the dish over cooked rice or quinoa. Both alternatives will provide a different texture while still complementing the flavors of the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup. You can also incorporate more vegetables, such as bell peppers and snap peas, to enhance the dish's flavor and texture.
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).