Prepare your taste buds for a truly nostalgic and comforting culinary journey with our exquisite Chicken Chow Mein Casserole. This dish effortlessly marries the beloved, savory notes of classic Chinese chow mein with the ultimate ease and heartiness of an American casserole. Every spoonful promises a symphony of creamy textures, tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and that irresistible crunch of chow mein noodles, making it an instant family favorite. It’s a delightful blend of familiar flavors presented in a convenient, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.
The Enduring Appeal of a Classic Comfort Casserole
This isn’t just any casserole; it’s a delicious echo from the past, particularly popular in American kitchens during the 1980s. While we’ve lovingly updated the flavor profile over the years, the heart of this “old school” dish remains the same. It masterfully combines readily available convenience foods with the exciting, umami-rich flavors of Chinese takeout, creating a unique comfort food experience. Imagine the harmonious blend of savory soy sauce, aromatic garlic, succulent chicken, crisp fresh vegetables, and delightfully crunchy noodles – all baked together in a single dish, ready to be enjoyed in under an hour. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary and satisfying.
Why Our Chicken Chow Mein Casserole Will Become Your Go-To Dish
Beyond its nostalgic charm, this Chicken Chow Mein Casserole boasts numerous qualities that make it a standout recipe. First, its incredible convenience makes it ideal for busy evenings when you crave a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Second, the flavor profile is exceptionally balanced – a perfect marriage of savory, slightly sweet, and umami notes that appeal to a wide range of palates, even picky eaters. The combination of tender chicken and a medley of fresh, crisp-tender vegetables ensures a satisfying bite every time, while the signature crunch of the chow mein noodles provides a delightful textural contrast. Furthermore, its versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s truly a complete meal that delivers on both taste and simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe
We highly recommend sticking with low-sodium soy sauce for this recipe. Traditional, full-sodium soy sauce can make the casserole overwhelmingly salty, especially since canned soups already contribute a fair amount of sodium. Using low-sodium ensures a balanced flavor profile, allowing the other ingredients to shine without being masked by excessive saltiness. Trust us on this one; your taste buds will thank you for choosing the lower-sodium option for a perfectly seasoned dish.
This hearty casserole is incredibly satisfying on its own, easily serving as a complete meal. However, if you’re looking to enhance your dining experience, it pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy white rice, which can absorb some of the delicious sauce. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider serving it alongside or even over homemade fried rice. To add a fresh counterpoint, steamed vegetables like crisp broccoli florets or vibrant snap peas make an excellent accompaniment, offering a burst of green and healthy goodness. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Efficiency in the kitchen is key for many home cooks! To significantly cut down on prep time, look for pre-diced mirepoix in the produce section of your grocery store. Many stores, including places like Trader Joe’s, offer containers of already chopped onions, celery, and carrots, which eliminates a significant amount of chopping. Additionally, opting for jarred minced garlic instead of peeling and mincing fresh cloves can save precious minutes. And, as a true time-saving hero, using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a game-changer, as it provides perfectly tender, shredded chicken without any cooking required on your part.
While canned soups are a cornerstone of this casserole’s convenience, you certainly have options. You can prepare your own homemade cream of chicken soup or chicken and rice soup from scratch, though this would naturally extend the preparation time and shift the dish away from its “easy casserole” identity. For a flavor twist, feel free to swap one of the canned chicken soups for a can of cream of mushroom soup to introduce an earthy depth. If you are mindful of sodium intake, always opt for the low-sodium versions of canned soups available in most supermarkets.
If you desire an even more decadent and creamy consistency, there are several wonderful additions you can incorporate. Stirring in about ½ cup of sour cream will add a tangy richness and velvety texture. Softened cream cheese, melted into the hot mixture, creates an incredibly smooth and luxurious feel. Even a touch of mayonnaise, added towards the end, can contribute to a creamier, richer sauce without altering the core flavor too much. Experiment to find your preferred level of creaminess!
Don’t worry if diced pimentos are elusive in your grocery store! A fantastic and readily available substitute is one finely diced red bell pepper. Simply add it to the skillet along with the other vegetables (celery, onion, and carrots) during the initial sautéing step. The red bell pepper will provide a similar pop of color and a mild, sweet flavor that complements the dish beautifully. If you’ve never looked for jarred diced pimentos before, they are usually found near the jarred olives and pickles in the condiment aisle.
Water chestnuts are indeed optional, but we highly recommend including them! They are a wonderful addition that contributes a distinctive and delightful crunch to the casserole, contrasting beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken. If you’ve never tried them, you might be surprised to learn that water chestnuts have a very mild flavor on their own; they tend to absorb the flavors of the dish they’re cooked in, making them a chameleon ingredient that primarily offers textural interest. Give them a try – you might discover a new favorite texture!
To truly elevate the aromatic complexity and “wow factor” of this casserole, consider adding a teaspoon of Chinese Five Spice seasoning to the filling mixture. This traditional spice blend, usually comprising star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds, will introduce a warm, intricate, and deeply savory dimension that harmonizes wonderfully with the other Chinese-inspired flavors. A dash of sesame oil at the end can also add a nutty, rich aroma.
Leftovers of this Chicken Chow Mein Casserole are a treat! Once the casserole has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to note that the chow mein noodles will soften significantly upon refrigeration, losing some of their initial crunch. However, many people, including us, still find the casserole delicious even with softened noodles. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Again, be aware that the noodles will soften even further upon thawing and reheating. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Chow Mein Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful casserole. We’ve carefully selected components that deliver maximum flavor and convenience.
- Cooked Chicken: The cornerstone of our casserole. A pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is your best friend for convenience, but any boiled or roasted chicken, diced or shredded, works perfectly.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides a rich, creamy base that ties all the flavors together.
- Chicken with Rice Soup: Adds another layer of chicken flavor and a subtle textural interest with the rice.
- Celery, Onion, and Carrots: This classic aromatic trio (mirepoix) forms the flavor foundation. Look for pre-diced options in your grocery store’s produce section for a significant time-saver.
- Garlic: Essential for that savory, pungent kick that complements the Asian-inspired flavors. Freshly minced is always best, but jarred minced garlic is a convenient alternative.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Crucial for depth of flavor without over-salting the dish, especially when using canned soups.
- Diced Pimentos: These tiny, sweet red peppers add a subtle sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
- Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the base.
- Water Chestnuts (Optional but Recommended): Don’t skip these if you love a satisfying crunch! They absorb the surrounding flavors and add a wonderful textural contrast.
- Chow Mein Noodles: The star of the show, providing that signature crispy and soft noodle texture that defines chow mein.
- Green Onions: A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a mild oniony bite and bright color.
Crafting Your Delicious Chicken Chow Mein Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this Chicken Chow Mein Casserole is a straightforward process, designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Follow these detailed steps to bring this delightful dish to life in your kitchen.
- Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As it heats, take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, deep skillet (ensure it’s deep enough to hold all ingredients later), melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, add your finely diced celery, onion, and carrots. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 to 5 minutes. The goal here is to soften the vegetables slightly and begin releasing their sweet, aromatic flavors, not to brown them heavily.
- Infuse with Flavor: Reduce the heat back to medium. Add the minced garlic, diced pimentos, and roughly chopped water chestnuts (if using). Continue to cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This brief sauté allows the garlic to become fragrant and infuses the entire mixture with its aromatic essence, while the pimentos and water chestnuts begin to warm through.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Now, pour in the 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, the 10.5-ounce can of chicken and rice soup, ½ can of milk (using one of the empty soup cans for easy measurement), 2 teaspoons of pepper, and 2 teaspoons of low-sodium soy sauce. Stir all these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth and consistent. This is a great point to taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if necessary, ensuring it meets your preference before adding the chicken and noodles.
- Incorporate Chicken and Noodles: Gently stir in the 2 ½ cups of cooked, diced chicken (your rotisserie chicken will be perfect here) and 1 cup of chow mein noodles into the creamy mixture. Fold them in carefully to ensure they are evenly distributed. The noodles added at this stage will soften nicely during baking, becoming wonderfully tender and integrated into the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the entire chicken and noodle mixture from the skillet into your prepared 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula to create a consistent layer.
- Add the Signature Crunch: Evenly spread the remaining 1 cup of chow mein noodles over the top of the casserole mixture in the dish. These noodles will become beautifully crispy during baking, providing that essential textural contrast that makes this dish so special.
- Cover and Bake: Tightly cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil. Place the covered dish into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. The casserole is ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and thoroughly warmed through the center. The foil helps to steam the casserole, ensuring even heating and preventing the top noodles from burning prematurely.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for several minutes. This resting period is important as it allows the mixture to thicken and set slightly, making it easier to serve. The anticipation will be well worth it! Before serving, garnish generously with fresh sliced green onions for a vibrant burst of color and a mild, fresh onion flavor.
Tips for Success and Delicious Variations
Achieving the perfect Chicken Chow Mein Casserole is easy with a few simple tips and the flexibility to customize it to your liking.
- Sodium Control: Always opt for low-sodium soy sauce and low-sodium canned soups to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty. This allows you to season to taste with pepper and other spices.
- Prep Shortcuts: For ultimate convenience, utilize pre-diced mirepoix (celery, onion, carrots) from your grocery store. Jarred minced garlic is also a perfectly acceptable substitute for fresh.
- Mushroom Lover’s Twist: If you adore mushrooms, consider swapping out one can of cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup. You can also sauté some sliced fresh mushrooms with the other vegetables for an extra earthy flavor.
- Boost Creaminess: To achieve an even richer, creamier texture, stir in about ½ cup of sour cream, softened cream cheese, or a touch of mayonnaise into the mixture before baking. Each will add a unique depth and velvety mouthfeel.
- Pimento Alternative: If diced pimentos are hard to find, a finely diced red bell pepper makes an excellent substitute, offering a similar color and sweet flavor when cooked with the other vegetables.
- Serving Suggestions: While a complete meal on its own, this casserole is wonderful served with a simple side salad, steamed snap peas, or broccoli to add fresh, vibrant vegetables to your plate.
- Flavor Amplification: For a more complex and authentic Asian-inspired flavor, add about a teaspoon of Chinese Five Spice seasoning to the casserole mixture. A drizzle of toasted sesame oil just before serving also adds a nutty aroma.
- Protein Power: Feel free to experiment with other cooked proteins like shredded pork, diced turkey, or even cubed firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Ensure they are cooked through before adding to the casserole.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other quick-cooking vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or thinly sliced cabbage during the final mixing stage before baking.
Craving More Comforting Recipes?
If you’ve enjoyed the comforting and easy flavors of our Chicken Chow Mein Casserole, we have a wealth of other delicious recipes that you’re sure to love. From more Asian-inspired dishes to classic American comfort foods, these recipes are perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
- Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Chicken Lo Mein
- Asian Slaw
- Beef Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Crock Pot Sweet & Sour Chicken
- Chicken Cobbler
- Chicken a la King
- Hawaiian Haystacks
- Malibu Chicken Casserole
- Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Poppy Seed Chicken
- No Peek Chicken Casserole
- Mongolian Beef Noodles
- Easy General Tso’s Chicken
- Creamy Chicken Bundles
- Swiss Chicken Casserole
- 30 Comforting Casseroles
Chicken Chow Mein Casserole Recipe
Every bite of this creamy, crunchy Chicken Chow Mein Casserole will dazzle your tastebuds as it combines all your favorite Chinese chow mein flavors in an easy casserole!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 3 Tablespoons salted butter
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- ½ onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons diced pimentos
- 8 ounce can water chestnuts, drained and roughly chopped (optional, but recommended for crunch)
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (low sodium recommended)
- 10.5 ounce can chicken and rice soup (low sodium recommended)
- ½ can milk (use one of the soup cans for measurement)
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 ½ cups cooked, diced chicken (about one whole rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
For Topping:
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large, deep skillet, melt 3 Tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat.
- Once butter is melted, add the finely diced celery, onion, and carrots. Turn the heat up to medium-high. Cook, stirring constantly, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat back down to medium. Add the minced garlic, diced pimentos, and roughly chopped water chestnuts. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, chicken and rice soup, milk, pepper, and low sodium soy sauce. Mix well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Finally, stir in the cooked, diced chicken and 1 cup of chow mein noodles.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of chow mein noodles, distributing them evenly over the surface.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling hot throughout.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for several minutes. The mixture will thicken as it cools. Serve hot, topped with fresh sliced green onions.
Video Tutorial
Recipe Notes
- For optimal flavor balance, low sodium soy sauce is highly recommended to prevent the casserole from becoming too salty, especially with the use of canned soups.
- To minimize preparation time, consider using pre-diced mirepoix (celery, onion, and carrots) readily available in many grocery stores. Jarred minced garlic is also a convenient alternative to fresh.
- If you enjoy mushrooms, a delicious variation involves substituting one can of cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup and adding sliced fresh mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables.
- To achieve an even creamier consistency, stir in approximately ½ cup of sour cream, softened cream cheese, or a small amount of mayonnaise into the mixture before baking.
- Should you be unable to find jarred diced pimentos, one finely diced red bell pepper can be used as a substitute. Add it to the skillet along with the other vegetables.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables such as snap peas or broccoli for a complete meal.
- For those sensitive to sodium, always opt for low-sodium versions of all applicable ingredients, including soups and broths.
- To really enhance the flavor profile, incorporate about a teaspoon of Chinese Five Spice seasoning into the casserole filling.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the chow mein noodles will soften. Freezing is also an option, though noodles will soften upon thawing and reheating.
Recipe Details
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Chinese
Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)
Calories: 552 kcal | Carbohydrates: 76g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 17g | Sodium: 1891mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 6g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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