Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWalking into my kitchen, a wave of comforting aromas unfolds, enticing me with the promise of a delicious meal. This Comforting Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole is a gem from Chinese cuisine, perfect for cozy nights and quick family dinners. The magic lies in the silky texture of soft tofu mingling harmoniously with tender chicken and a savory sauce that’ll warm your soul. Best of all, it’s a breeze to whip up in just one pot—whether you choose a clay pot or a Dutch oven, you’ll find this dish becomes a delightful centerpiece on your table. Not only does it come together quickly, but it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing for easy adaptations like adding dried salted fish for a flavor boost. Want to dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s a favorite among home chefs? Let’s get cooking! What makes this casserole so comforting? Comforting, the Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole is the ultimate dish to wrap you in warmth. Versatile, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—try adding some colorful bell peppers or a hint of dried salted fish for added flavor! Quick to prepare, it takes just a short time from prep to plate, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Flavor-packed, the combination of savory sauces and tender chicken pairs beautifully with the silky tofu, creating a satisfying harmony that keeps you coming back for more. Serve it on a bed of rice or with a light cucumber salad for an inviting meal your family will adore! Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole Ingredients For the Chicken • Diced Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – This hearty protein adds moisture; feel free to substitute with chicken breast or leave it out for a vegetarian dish. • Water – Essential for marinating and tenderizing the chicken. For the Sauce • Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce beautifully; arrowroot or tapioca starch works as a perfect substitute. • Vegetable Oil – A neutral oil for cooking; can be swapped with canola or grapeseed oil. • Oyster Sauce – Brings umami and deep flavors, or use soy sauce for a vegetarian alternative. • Chicken Stock – Serves as a rich sauce base; replace with vegetable broth if making a vegetarian version. • Light Soy Sauce – Adds necessary saltiness; tamari is a great gluten-free replacement. • Dark Soy Sauce – Enhances color and depth; using this is optional but highly recommended. • Sugar – Balances out flavors perfectly; honey can replace it or simply omit for low-sugar diets. • Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty flavor; consider omitting if there are allergy concerns. For the Aromatics • Ginger – Introduces a warming spice; fresh ginger is preferred, but you can use ground ginger in a pinch. • Scallions – Adds freshness and crunch; use both white and green parts for best flavor. • Garlic – Essential for a fragrant base; garlic powder can substitute if fresh isn’t on hand. • Shaoxing Wine – Elevates the dish’s flavor; a dry sherry can be a substitute or omit for a non-alcoholic version. For the Vegetables • Dried Shiitake Mushrooms – Adds rich umami flavor; feel free to use fresh mushrooms if necessary. • Hot Water – Important for soaking the mushrooms and assembling the dish. • Soft Tofu – The star of this recipe, brings a silky texture; silken tofu can be used instead. • Frozen Peas – Offers a burst of sweetness and color; fresh peas can also work well. For Seasoning • Salt – Elevates flavors; adjust according to taste. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a bowl, combine diced boneless skinless chicken thighs with water, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and oyster sauce. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly, ensuring it’s tender and flavorful. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the other ingredients. Step 2: Prepare Mushrooms Rinse the dried shiitake mushrooms under cold water, then soak them in hot water for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). Once softened, slice the mushrooms thinly, ensuring they’re ready to add a rich umami flavor to your Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole. Step 3: Cube Tofu Carefully cut the soft tofu into ¾ inch cubes and lay them gently on a plate. This preparation helps maintain their delicate texture for the casserole and ensures they will absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce without breaking apart during cooking. Step 4: Create Sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, sugar, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sesame oil until fully combined. This sauce will form the flavorful base of your Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole, enhancing the overall dish with deep savory notes. Step 5: Stir-Fry Chicken Heat a non-stick wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of vegetable oil. Once hot, stir-fry the marinated chicken for about 1 minute, or until it’s opaque and starts to brown lightly. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside to keep it juicy and tender. Step 6: Cook Aromatics In the same wok, add a bit more vegetable oil and toss in grated ginger and the white parts of scallions. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then add minced garlic, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will build a foundational aromatic profile for the casserole. Step 7: Add Mushrooms and Sauce Increase the heat to high and add the soaked shiitake mushrooms along with Shaoxing wine. Stir-fry for 1 minute, then pour in the sauce mixture and add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce is bubbling and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Step 8: Combine Tofu and Chicken Gently fold the drained soft tofu cubes and the stir-fried chicken into the bubbling sauce. Mix carefully to coat the tofu and chicken without breaking the tofu. Heat them together for a few minutes, allowing them to absorb the collective flavors of the Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole. Step 9: Simmer Transfer the entire mixture into a clay pot or a Dutch oven. Simmer over medium heat for about 8 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld while the casserole gently bubbles. Top with the green parts of scallions for added color and freshness just before serving. Step 10: Finish and Serve Stir in a handful of frozen peas, adjusting the seasoning with salt if needed. Cook for an extra minute until the peas are heated through, then serve your Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole hot, perhaps over steamed rice or alongside a light cucumber salad for a delightful meal. What to Serve with Comforting Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole A symphony of flavors fills the air, making each meal a celebration of warmth and comfort alongside this delightful casserole. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy rice soaks up the savory sauce, offering a satisfying backdrop to the dish’s rich flavors. Cucumber Salad: A fresh cucumber salad adds a cool crunch, balancing the warmth of the casserole and awakening your taste buds. Stir-Fried Greens: Bright and vibrant stir-fried greens, like bok choy or snow peas, introduce a lovely crunch and a burst of nutrients to your meal. Szechuan-Style Spicy Eggplant: For those craving a little heat, spicy eggplant adds a bold dimension, marrying beautifully with the creamy tofu. Hot and Sour Soup: Start the meal with a bowl of hot and sour soup for a delightful interplay of tangy, savory, and spicy flavors that complements the casserole. Chilled Mango Pudding: End the evening on a sweet note with chilled mango pudding, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory casserole. Make Ahead Options These Chicken & Soft Tofu Casseroles are perfect for busy weeknight meal prep! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the shiitake mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the chicken thighs with water, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and oyster sauce, then refrigerate. Soak the mushrooms in hot water ahead of time to enhance their flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just stir-fry the marinated chicken and aromatics, add the sauce, and fold in the tofu and peas—quick and easy! This way, you’ll enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal without the last-minute rush, and it will be just as delicious as if you made it from scratch! Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize the Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole with these delightful variations! Seafood Addition: Incorporate shrimp or scallops for a luxurious twist that complements the soft tofu beautifully. Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty, plant-based version that’s equally satisfying. Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in vibrant bell peppers, bok choy, or spinach, adding color and nutrients while keeping it fresh and lively. Hot & Spicy: Add sliced fresh chilies or a drizzle of chili oil for a kick of heat that brightens the entire dish. Savory Topping: Sprinkle crispy fried onions or garlic chips on top before serving for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the silky tofu. Flavor Fusion: Drizzle some hoisin sauce or sriracha on top for a unique flavor profile that’ll make your taste buds dance. Umami Kick: Consider adding a few tablespoons of minced dried salted fish into the mix for an authentic flavor boost that’s loved in traditional recipes. Lemon Zest: Just before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and a refreshing zing that enhances the savory flavors. For more inspiration, why not try making Hawaiian Chicken Salad for a tropical twist or indulge in Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas for a comforting feast? You’ll find these variations keep your dinners exciting and delicious! How to Store and Freeze Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Make sure to fully cool the casserole before sealing it. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole for up to 2 months. Portion it into meal-sized containers for easy reheating later. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the tofu from breaking down. Quality Check: Always check for off smells or changes in texture before consuming leftovers to ensure they’re still good! Expert Tips for Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole Mushroom Soaking: Soak dried shiitake mushrooms ahead of time for 2 hours or overnight to enhance their texture and flavor. Non-Stick Cooking: Use a non-stick wok or ensure your pan is well-seasoned to prevent sticking, especially with the delicate soft tofu. Heat Management: Monitor the heat during stir-frying to avoid burning. Adjust as necessary for even cooking and a beautifully caramelized dish. Careful Mixing: Gently fold in the soft tofu to avoid breaking it apart; its silky texture is key to the Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole experience. Flavor Balancing: Taste the dish before serving; adjust the salt to bring out the vibrant flavors of the casserole. Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ingredients for this casserole? Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for ones that have a fresh, pink hue and are firm to the touch. For the soft tofu, opt for those that are in sealed packages without any cracks. If using dried shiitake mushrooms, ensure they are free from mold and have a strong aroma—this indicates they’re fresh. How should I store leftovers? I recommend refrigerating any leftover Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it. Gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave while stirring occasionally to maintain the tofu’s texture. Can I freeze Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole? Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into meal-sized containers. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Be sure to label each container with the date for reference. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently. What if my tofu breaks apart during cooking? Very common! To avoid breaking your soft tofu, handle it gently when mixing it with the chicken and sauce. I often recommend using a wide spatula to fold it in without stirring too vigorously. If it does break, don’t worry; it will still taste delicious! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Certainly! If you or someone in your family has soy allergies, you can substitute soft tofu with coconut cream for a different texture. For gluten-free options, use tamari in place of soy sauce and always check the oyster sauce label for hidden gluten. Warm Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole for Cozy Comfort Nights This Chicken & Soft Tofu Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for cozy dinners, featuring tender chicken and silky tofu in a savory sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ChineseCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken500 grams Diced Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken breast or omit for vegetarian.½ cup Water Essential for marinating.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Cornstarch Can substitute with arrowroot or tapioca starch.2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can substitute with canola or grapeseed oil.3 tablespoons Oyster Sauce Or use soy sauce for a vegetarian alternative.1 cup Chicken Stock Or replace with vegetable broth.2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce Tamari is a great gluten-free replacement.1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce Optional but recommended.1 teaspoon Sugar Can be replaced with honey or omitted.1 teaspoon Sesame Oil Omit if there are allergy concerns.For the Aromatics1 tablespoon Ginger Preferably fresh, ground ginger can be used.2 tablespoons Scallions Use both white and green parts.3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best, can substitute with garlic powder.2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine Omit for non-alcoholic.For the Vegetables6 pieces Dried Shiitake Mushrooms Fresh mushrooms can be used.1 cup Hot Water For soaking the mushrooms.300 grams Soft Tofu Silken tofu can be used instead.½ cup Frozen Peas Fresh peas can also be used.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste. Equipment non-stick wokclay pot or Dutch oven Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a bowl, combine diced boneless skinless chicken thighs with water, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and oyster sauce. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.Rinse the dried shiitake mushrooms under cold water, then soak them in hot water for at least 2 hours. Once softened, slice the mushrooms thinly.Carefully cut the soft tofu into ¾ inch cubes and lay them gently on a plate.In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, sugar, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sesame oil until fully combined.Heat a non-stick wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of vegetable oil, and stir-fry the marinated chicken for about 1 minute. Remove and set aside.In the same wok, add more vegetable oil, toss in grated ginger and the white parts of scallions, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add minced garlic.Add soaked shiitake mushrooms along with Shaoxing wine, stir-fry for 1 minute, then pour in the sauce mixture and add cornstarch slurry to thicken it.Gently fold the drained soft tofu cubes and stir-fried chicken into the bubbling sauce. Heat together for a few minutes.Transfer the mixture into a clay pot or Dutch oven. Simmer over medium heat for about 8 minutes, topping with the green parts of scallions.Stir in a handful of frozen peas, adjusting seasoning with salt if needed. Cook for an extra minute and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
