Introduction
When you’re craving something quick, tasty, and packed with flavor, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is the answer. Imagine tender chicken, crisp veggies, and soft noodles all combined in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. Not only does this dish come together in just 30 minutes, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to satisfy your stir-fry cravings. What makes this recipe so special is the perfect blend of rich flavors in the Chow Mein sauce that complements the freshness of the ingredients. So, ready to enjoy a delicious homemade dish that rivals takeout? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Chow Mein
ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the veggies retain their delightful crunch. Moreover, the noodles soak up the savory sauce beautifully, bringing together a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is incredibly versatile and simple to make.
Additionally, another reason you’ll love this recipe is how customizable it is. The sauce is easy to adjust to your taste, and you can swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu. Furthermore, adding more veggies is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients, making this recipe adaptable to various dietary preferences. Moreover, this Chicken Chow Mein is a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients of Chicken Chow Mein
To prepare Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chow Mein Sauce:
- ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- ¼ cup (60ml) chicken broth or water
For the Chicken Chow Mein:
- 8 oz (225g) chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots
- 2 cups (150g) shredded cabbage or bok choy
- ½ cup (50g) bean sprouts (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Necessary Tools for Chicken Chow Mein
Before getting started, gather the following kitchen tools:
- A large skillet or wok
- A medium-sized bowl (for the sauce)
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A pot for boiling noodles
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- A measuring cup and spoons
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This Chicken Chow Mein is incredibly flexible. If you’re out of certain ingredients or prefer different flavors, feel free to experiment:
- Proteins: If you don’t have chicken, you can easily swap it for shrimp, beef, or tofu.
- Vegetables: Add more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas for additional flavor and nutrients.
- Sauce Variations: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of chili paste or Sriracha to the sauce mixture. For a richer flavor, try using beef broth instead of chicken broth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Chicken Chow Mein at home:
1️⃣ Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar (optional), and chicken broth. Set this aside for later.
2️⃣ Cook the Noodles: Then, boil the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
3️⃣ Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Sauté the garlic and onion for about 1 minute, then add the shredded carrots, cabbage, and bean sprouts (if using). Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the veggies are tender yet crisp.
5️⃣ Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked noodles. Pour in the prepared chow mein sauce and toss everything well until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and the ingredients are combined.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Finally, garnish with sliced green onions for extra flavor and serve hot. Your Chicken Chow Mein is ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Chicken Chow Mein turns out perfect every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Marinate the chicken in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp cornstarch for extra tenderness and flavor before cooking.
- Furthermore, boost the flavor by adding a dash of sesame seeds, chili flakes, or a little extra garlic for more depth.
- Moreover, make it vegan by swapping the chicken for tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth in the sauce.
Additionally, if you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Chicken Chow Mein is the perfect choice, with tender chicken, crispy veggies, and savory noodles all tossed in a mouthwatering sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Chow Mein is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Here are some creative ideas for serving:
- Pair with a side of spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
- Moreover, top with chopped peanuts or cashews for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Additionally, serve with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast to the savory chow mein.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Chow Mein:
- Room Temperature: Store the leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let the dish cool before placing it in the fridge.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen up the sauce.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
FAQs – Chicken Chow Mein
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Can I use gluten-free noodles? Absolutely! You can substitute regular chow mein noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles for a gluten-free version of this dish.
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Can I use a different protein? Yes! Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu, depending on your preference.
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Can I make this dish spicy? Yes! To add some heat, mix in a bit of chili paste or a few dashes of hot sauce when preparing the sauce.
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Can I prepare the sauce in advance? Yes, you can prepare the chow mein sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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How can I make this dish vegetarian? Simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in the sauce to make this dish vegetarian.
Conclusion
To sum up, chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is the perfect recipe for a quick, flavorful, and customizable meal. Additionally, with its savory sauce, tender chicken, and crisp veggies, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious stir-fry. The best part? You can easily swap ingredients to make it your own! So, whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is a must-try. Go ahead and give it a try today—you won’t be disappointed!
Moreover, for an easy and comforting meal, try this Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes recipe, where tender chicken and hearty potatoes cook to perfection in a flavorful, savory sauce.