Savory Chicken Chow Mein Bake
This Savory Chicken Chow Mein Bake is a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines tender shredded chicken, crunchy chow mein noodles, and creamy soups for a comforting casserole everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's incredibly simple to prepare—just mix your ingredients in a dish and let the oven do the work! This recipe allows for flexibility too; feel free to use reduced fat or fat-free cream of chicken soup and evaporated milk without sacrificing flavor. Ideal for feeding a family or for meal prep, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked and shredded chicken
1 1/2 cups (Cook and shred)
chow mein noodles
3 cups (Uncooked)
cream of chicken soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can (Ready to use)
chicken noodle soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can (Ready to use)
evaporated milk
1 (12 ounce) can (Ready to use)
croutons
1 cup (Optional topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, chow mein noodles, cream of chicken soup, chicken noodle soup, and evaporated milk. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
4
If desired, sprinkle croutons over the top for added crunch.
5
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
6
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Chicken Chow Mein Bake?
It is a comforting casserole that blends shredded chicken, crunchy chow mein noodles, and creamy soups into an easy-to-make dish.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for the best results.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The dish should bake for approximately 45 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Do I need to cook the chow mein noodles before adding them?
No, you should use uncooked chow mein noodles as they soften and cook within the sauce during the baking process.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add extra flavor.
What type of soups are required?
The recipe calls for one 10.5 ounce can of cream of chicken soup and one 10.5 ounce can of chicken noodle soup.
Can I use fat-free versions of the ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute reduced-fat or fat-free cream of chicken soup and evaporated milk without sacrificing the overall flavor.
Is the crouton topping mandatory?
No, the croutons are an optional topping intended to add an extra layer of crunch.
Should the casserole dish be covered while baking?
Yes, you should cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil while it is in the oven.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients in the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat portions in the microwave or place the dish back in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Absolutely! Adding peas, diced carrots, or celery can enhance the texture and nutritional value.
What can I substitute for evaporated milk?
While evaporated milk is best for creaminess, you can use heavy cream or half-and-half as a substitute.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for meal prep as it holds up well when reheated.
What size casserole dish should I use?
A standard 2-quart or 9x13 inch casserole dish works perfectly for this recipe.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, shredded cooked turkey is a perfect substitute for chicken in this casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling and the center is thoroughly heated.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and crunchy texture make it a popular choice for children.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake them in two separate dishes or one very large roasting pan.
What side dishes pair well with this?
A light green salad or steamed broccoli complements the savory flavors of the bake.
Why is chicken noodle soup used in a casserole?
The chicken noodle soup adds extra moisture, seasoning, and texture to the filling.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, greasing the casserole dish ensures that the ingredients do not stick to the bottom.
Can I add cheese to the top?
Yes, sprinkling cheddar or mozzarella cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking adds a delicious finish.
Are the noodles soft or crunchy after baking?
The noodles inside the sauce soften, while those on top or near the edges maintain some crunch.
Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery can be used if you prefer those flavors over cream of chicken.
Is this dish very salty?
The saltiness depends on the brands of canned soup used; you can look for low-sodium versions to control the salt content.
How long should I let it cool before serving?
Letting the casserole rest for about 5 minutes helps the sauce set slightly before serving.