Chicken Chow Mein is a staple of Chinese takeout menus worldwide. With its flavorful stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, this dish is a satisfying and delicious meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this homemade Chicken Chow Mein recipe will hit the spot.
What is Chicken Chow Mein?
Origin and Popularity
Chow Mein, which translates to “stir-fried noodles” in Cantonese, is a popular Chinese dish that has been adapted across various cultures. Traditionally, Chow Mein consists of stir-fried noodles tossed with vegetables, protein (like chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu), and a flavorful sauce.
Difference Between Chow Mein and Lo Mein
Many people confuse Chow Mein with Lo Mein. While both dishes contain noodles and similar ingredients, the primary difference lies in how they’re cooked. Chow Mein uses stir-fried noodles for a slightly crispy texture, whereas Lo Mein features soft, boiled noodles tossed in sauce.
Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein
Essential Ingredients:
To make the best Chicken Chow Mein at home, you’ll need:
- Noodles – Chow Mein noodles or thin egg noodles are the best options.
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- Vegetables – Carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, and green onions are recommended.
- Garlic & Ginger – Essential for authentic flavor
- Soy Sauce – Light and dark soy sauce for a rich umami taste
- Oyster Sauce – Adds a depth of flavor
- Sesame Oil – For aroma and taste
- Cornstarch – Helps tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce
- Sugar – Balances the flavors
- Cooking Oil – Vegetable or peanut oil for stir-frying
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- Bean sprouts – Adds crunch
- Mushrooms – For an earthy taste
- Chili flakes – For a spicy kick
- Hoisin sauce – For a touch of sweetness
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
- Slice the Chicken: Cut the chicken into thin strips and marinate it with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of sesame oil. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Chop the Vegetables: Julienne the carrots, thinly slice the bell peppers, and shred the cabbage.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large wok or pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Frying the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add more oil if needed and toss in the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender yet still crisp.
Step 4: Cooking the Noodles and Combining Everything
- Prepare the Chow Mein noodles following the package instructions, then drain and set them aside.
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a pinch of sugar. Toss everything together.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir well to combine.
- Drizzle sesame oil on top for added flavor, then remove from heat.
Tips for the Best Chicken Chow Mein
- Use high heat: This ensures a quick and even stir-fry, preventing soggy noodles.
- Don’t overcook the veggies: Keep them crisp for the best texture.
- Prep everything ahead of time: Since stir-frying is fast, having all ingredients ready is key.
- Choose the right noodles: Authentic Chow Mein noodles work best, but spaghetti or ramen can be substitutes in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Chow Mein pairs well with:
- Spring Rolls – A crispy appetizer to complement the dish
- Wonton Soup – A warm and comforting side
- Sweet and Sour Chicken – For a complete Chinese feast
- Steamed Rice – To balance out the meal
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to bring back moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the noodles too soft.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may become mushy.
Conclusion
Chicken Chow Mein is a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor, texture, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether you’re recreating your favorite takeout dish or just looking for a new stir-fry recipe, this homemade version will surely impress your taste buds. Give it a try, and you’ll never need to order takeout again!
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Chow Mein vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the chicken for tofu or extra veggies like mushrooms and bok choy.
2. What’s the best substitute for Chow Mein noodles?
You can use thin egg noodles, spaghetti, or ramen noodles as an alternative.
3. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Just shred the chicken and add it during the final step when combining everything.
4. How do I make Chicken Chow Mein spicy?
Add chili flakes, Sriracha, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for some heat.
5. What’s the difference between Chicken Chow Mein and Chicken Lo Mein?
Chow Mein is stir-fried with a slightly crispy texture, while Lo Mein uses soft boiled noodles tossed in sauce.
Chicken Chow Mein
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Chow Mein that brings authentic Chinese flavors to your kitchen. This stir-fried noodle dish is packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz chow mein noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup cabbage (shredded)
- 1/2 cup carrots (julienned)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (sliced)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (grated)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Boil the chow mein noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-fry the vegetables: Add the remaining oil to the wok. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, then add cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Combine everything: Return the chicken to the wok, pour in the sauce, and add the chicken broth. Stir well and let the sauce thicken for 1-2 minutes.
- Add noodles: Toss in the cooked noodles, stirring well to coat them in the sauce. Add green onions and black pepper. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy: Garnish with extra green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of Sriracha.
- Swap chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for variations.
- Use fresh chow mein noodles for an even better texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg