Chicken Chow Mein

Introduction

Chicken Chow Mein is a classic Chinese stir-fry dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and flavorful noodles all tossed in a savory sauce. This easy and quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal. The stir-frying technique gives the noodles a delicious, slightly crispy texture, while the chicken and vegetables soak up the umami-packed sauce. With its balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, Chicken Chow Mein is sure to be a hit with your family or guests.

I first made this dish when I wanted something fast yet satisfying, and it quickly became a family favorite. The smell of stir-fried goodness fills the kitchen, and it’s hard to resist the combination of crispy noodles and tender chicken. You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even switch up the protein by using shrimp, beef, or tofu.

The beauty of Chicken Chow Mein is how flexible it is. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a quick meal, this dish is sure to please!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family gatherings
• Meal prep
• Asian-inspired meals
• Stir-fry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chow Mein

Here’s why Chicken Chow Mein will become your new favorite dish:

• Flavor-packed: The stir-fry sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil brings a depth of flavor to the dish that’s perfectly balanced with the vegetables and chicken.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in different vegetables, proteins, or noodles based on your preferences or what you have in the fridge.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy nights when you want a satisfying, homemade meal.
• Perfect Texture: The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and slightly crispy noodles creates a satisfying variety of textures in each bite.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and whole-wheat noodles (optional), this dish can be both filling and nutritious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken Chow Mein:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 4 cups napa cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces chow mein noodles (or any thin noodles)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, chopped for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that keeps the dish light and healthy while adding a satisfying flavor and texture.
• Napa Cabbage: A mild, tender cabbage that provides a soft crunch and soaks up the savory stir-fry sauce beautifully.
• Carrots and Bell Peppers: These vegetables add a pop of color, crunch, and natural sweetness to the dish, balancing the savory flavors.
• Chow Mein Noodles: These thin, slightly chewy noodles absorb the sauce and help make the dish filling and hearty.
• Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: These provide the deep umami flavor that is the hallmark of this dish, creating that authentic stir-fry taste.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a fragrant, nutty aroma that elevates the overall flavor profile of the chow mein.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Chow Mein:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the noodles are cooking, prep your vegetables. Slice the chicken, shred the cabbage, julienne the carrots, slice the bell peppers, and chop the onion and garlic.

Stir-fry the Chicken and Vegetables:

3. Heat the Oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken breast to the pan, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
5. Stir-fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the garlic, onion, bell peppers, and carrots, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
6. Add the Cabbage: Toss in the shredded napa cabbage and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until it begins to wilt.

Combine and Toss:

7. Add the Noodles and Chicken: Add the cooked noodles and the reserved chicken back to the pan with the vegetables.
8. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables, tossing everything together to coat evenly.
9. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the pan. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Final Touches:

10. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the Chicken Chow Mein to serving plates. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve immediately.

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein

Chicken Chow Mein is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides and beverages:

• With a Side of Rice: Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
• As Part of a Chinese Feast: Serve as one of several dishes in a larger Chinese-inspired meal with sides like dumplings, egg rolls, and soup.
• With a Drink: Pair with iced tea or a light beer for a refreshing combination.

Additional Tips for Chicken Chow Mein

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Chow Mein turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Stir-fry the chicken just until cooked through to keep it juicy and tender.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying at high heat gives the noodles and vegetables a nice sear, creating that signature wok-charred flavor.
• Adjust the Sauce to Taste: Feel free to add more soy sauce or oyster sauce if you prefer a saltier, richer taste, or use less if you’re watching your sodium intake.
• Use a Wok: If you have a wok, use it! The wide surface and high sides allow for better heat distribution and more space for tossing ingredients.
• Chop Vegetables Evenly: For consistent cooking, make sure your vegetables are all sliced to similar thickness.
• Add Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some chopped chili peppers when cooking the vegetables.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Chow Mein

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Chow Mein:

• Beef Chow Mein: Swap the chicken for thinly sliced beef for a heartier, richer dish.
• Vegetable Chow Mein: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and snap peas for a vegetarian version.
• Shrimp Chow Mein: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a quick and flavorful seafood option.
• Spicy Chicken Chow Mein: Add chili paste, sriracha, or chopped fresh chilies for a spicy kick.
• Crispy Noodle Chow Mein: Fry the noodles in a separate pan for a crispy texture before adding the vegetables and chicken.
• Sweet and Sour Chicken Chow Mein: Add pineapple chunks and a little sugar to the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Mushroom Chow Mein: Add an assortment of mushrooms like shiitake, button, or oyster mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Gluten-Free Chow Mein: Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free option.
• Low-Carb Chow Mein: Swap chow mein noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a lower-carb version.
• Chicken and Tofu Chow Mein: Add cubes of firm tofu alongside the chicken for extra protein and texture.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Chow Mein

• Freezing: While stir-fried noodles are best fresh, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat.

Special Equipment for Chicken Chow Mein

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chicken Chow Mein easier:

• Wok or Skillet: A wok or large skillet is essential for stir-frying at high heat.
• Chopsticks or Tongs: Use chopsticks or tongs for tossing the ingredients together quickly without breaking them.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Garlic Press: To easily mince the garlic for added convenience.
• Airtight Containers: For storing leftovers after the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Chow Mein

1. Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before stir-frying.
2. Can I use a different protein? Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a different variation.
3. Can I use egg noodles instead of chow mein noodles? Yes, egg noodles can be substituted, but chow mein noodles provide a unique texture and flavor.
4. How do I keep the noodles from sticking together? Rinse the cooked noodles under cold water and toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken, veggies, and sauce ahead of time and assemble the dish right before serving.

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Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein is a flavorful, quick, and satisfying stir-fry dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce creates a meal that’s both delicious and comforting. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, prepping for the week, or simply craving a tasty meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot every time.

It’s easy to make and packed with the kind of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the balance of textures and tastes in every bite!

I’d love to see how your Chicken Chow Mein turns out! Snap a picture and share it on social media—don’t forget to tag me. I can’t wait to see your creation! Happy cooking!