Chicken Chow Mein is a classic Chinese takeout dish made with stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce. This easy recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. Skip the takeout and enjoy the fresh, bold flavors of homemade Chicken Chow Mein.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for marinating)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 3 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If the noodles are likely to stick, toss them with a small amount of vegetable oil.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken with cornstarch and soy sauce. Toss until well coated and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chicken broth. Set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the shredded cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Chicken Chow Mein warm, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cook Notes
- Noodles: Chow mein noodles or thin egg noodles work best. You can also use spaghetti in a pinch.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms based on your preference.
- Chicken Marinade: Marinating the chicken with cornstarch helps it stay tender during cooking.
Variations
1. Spicy Chicken Chow Mein
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the stir-fry sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Shrimp Chow Mein
Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Shrimp cooks quickly, so stir-fry for just 2-3 minutes until pink.
3. Vegetarian Chow Mein
Use tofu or extra vegetables in place of chicken. Be sure to press the tofu well before cooking to achieve a nice texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Spring Rolls: Serve with vegetable spring rolls for a complete takeout-inspired meal.
- Hot and Sour Soup: Pair with a bowl of hot and sour soup for a comforting and flavorful combination.
- Garnishes: Garnish with sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time—cook the noodles, slice the chicken, and mix the sauce. Assemble and cook just before serving for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
Yes, you can use a mix of frozen stir-fry vegetables if you’re short on time. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.
Chicken Chow Mein is a delicious and satisfying dish that you can easily make at home, saving you the trip to the takeout restaurant. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory noodles, it’s a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Try it out, and customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
