Wow, who knew I could turn my go-to takeout into a casserole? Game changer!

This Oven-Baked Chicken Chow Mein Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish, perfect for those who enjoy a lighter yet hearty meal. Growing up in the Midwest, casseroles were a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, bringing everyone together around the table. This recipe swaps out the traditional ground beef for ground chicken, offering a modern take that still holds onto the comforting essence of the original. It's a dish that bridges the gap between the past and present, offering a taste of nostalgia with every bite.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. You might also consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a touch of sweetness, a fruit salad or a slice of apple pie would round out the meal perfectly.

Servings: 6

1 lb ground chicken
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 carrots, julienned
1/2 head cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons cornstarch
8 oz Chow Mein noodles, cooked
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken until browned.

Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent.

Stir in the chopped celery, julienned carrots, thinly sliced cabbage, and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch to create a sauce.

Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Simmer until the sauce thickens.

Toss the cooked Chow Mein noodles with the chicken and vegetable mixture until well combined.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider including bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color. For a gluten-free option, use rice noodles instead of Chow Mein noodles.