Chopstick Tuna Or Chicken Casserole
A comforting casserole blending tuna or chicken with crunchy noodles, vegetables, and cashews, baked to perfection—ideal for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mushroom soup and water in a bowl; add half of the chow mein noodles.
- Mix in the tuna or chicken, sliced celery, onion, frozen peas, cashew nuts, and pepper.
- Place the mixture in a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining noodles over the top.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 45 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mushroom soup mixture. If you want a different flavor profile, try substituting the tuna with canned salmon or even shredded rotisserie chicken. For a crunchier topping, use crushed potato chips instead of chow mein noodles. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish goes well with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside fluffy rice or crusty bread. It also makes a great addition to a Christmas Eve Buffet Supper.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chopstick Tuna Or Chicken Casserole contains roughly 959 calories, with 28g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1464mg per serving (64% 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 in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time and cover it with foil until heated through.
What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?
If you can't find chow mein noodles, you can use crispy fried onions or even crushed tortilla chips as a topping. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Just ensure they are cooked according to package instructions before adding them to the casserole.
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).