Experience the delightful fusion of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seasoned noodles in this Chicken Chow Mein. This dish brings the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The harmonious blend of savory sauces and fresh ingredients ensures a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces chow mein noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons light sesame oil (not toasted)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Directions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until the cornstarch and sugar are fully dissolved. Set aside.
- Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the onion, cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Chow Mein: History, Benefits, and Why This Recipe is the Best
Chicken Chow Mein is one of the most beloved Chinese-inspired dishes worldwide. With its combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, savory sauce, and perfectly stir-fried noodles, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy dinner, a meal prep option, or a homemade alternative to takeout, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is the best choice. In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of Chow Mein, the benefits of this dish, why our version stands out, and some helpful cooking tips to make it perfect every time.
The Origins of Chow Mein: A Chinese-American Classic
The term “Chow Mein” (炒面) translates to “fried noodles” in Mandarin. This dish originated in Northern China, where wheat-based noodles were stir-fried with vegetables and protein. Over time, it made its way to different regions of China and, eventually, the rest of the world, evolving into different styles.
- Authentic Cantonese-style Chow Mein typically features crispy pan-fried noodles topped with stir-fried meat and vegetables in a thick, savory sauce.
- Chinese-American Chow Mein, which is more common in the United States, uses soft stir-fried noodles, a rich umami sauce, and a combination of chicken, shrimp, pork, or beef.
This Chicken Chow Mein recipe takes inspiration from the best of both worlds, using lightly crisped noodles coated in a well-balanced sauce that ties everything together.
Why This Chicken Chow Mein Recipe is the Best
There are plenty of Chow Mein recipes out there, but what makes this one truly exceptional?
The Perfect Chow Mein Sauce
- A mix of oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chicken broth creates an umami-packed sauce that’s rich, savory, and slightly sweet.
- The sauce clings to the noodles and enhances every bite without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
The Right Balance of Ingredients
- This recipe features tender, marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy chow mein noodles, ensuring the perfect texture in every bite.
- Fresh ginger and garlic add an aromatic depth of flavor.
Easy to Make and Customizable
- This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- You can swap out vegetables based on what’s in your fridge or adjust the protein to your liking (shrimp, beef, or tofu work great!).
Healthier than Takeout
- By making Chicken Chow Mein at home, you can control the quality of ingredients, reduce sodium, and avoid unnecessary additives often found in restaurant versions.
- This recipe is naturally high in protein and fiber, making it a balanced and nutritious meal.
The Health Benefits of Chicken Chow Mein
Chicken Chow Mein isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Here are some reasons why this dish is a great addition to your meal rotation:
- High in Protein – Chicken provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants – The mix of fresh vegetables, including cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, provides essential vitamins like A, C, and K.
- Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates – The chow mein noodles provide a great source of energy, making this dish perfect for active individuals.
- Gut-Friendly Fiber – The veggies and whole wheat chow mein noodles (if using) offer fiber that aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
- Heart-Healthy Ingredients – Using heart-friendly oils like light sesame oil and reducing excess sodium makes this recipe a better alternative to greasy takeout.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Chow Mein
Cooking restaurant-quality Chicken Chow Mein at home is easier than you think! Follow these tips for the best results:
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
- Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions bring out the best flavors.
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender and juicy meat.
Cook Ingredients in the Right Order
- Stir-fry the chicken first and remove it from the pan to avoid overcooking.
- Cook the vegetables just until they are tender-crisp to retain their texture.
- Toss the noodles at the end to evenly coat them in the sauce.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
- Using a large wok or skillet ensures that everything cooks evenly and gets that signature stir-fried taste.
Make It Your Own
- Want a spicy kick? Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes.
- Prefer a crunchier texture? Pan-fry the noodles separately before mixing them into the dish.
- Need a low-carb option? Substitute the noodles with spiralized zucchini or cabbage.
Variations and Serving Ideas
Chicken Chow Mein is incredibly versatile! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Shrimp Chow Mein – Swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Beef Chow Mein – Use thinly sliced beef for a richer flavor.
- Vegetarian Chow Mein – Skip the meat and add extra mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based meal.
- Spicy Chow Mein – Add a drizzle of chili oil or Szechuan peppercorns for heat.
- Peanut Butter Chow Mein – Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a creamy, nutty twist.
Serve your Chicken Chow Mein with a side of steamed dumplings, egg rolls, or a simple cucumber salad to complete the meal.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Chow Mein
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
- Storage – Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the noodles from drying out. You can also microwave it, but stir occasionally for even heating.
Conclusion
This Chicken Chow Mein is everything you love about takeout—but better! It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. By making this dish at home, you’ll enjoy fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and a healthier meal that the whole family will love. So the next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, skip the delivery and whip up this incredible Chicken Chow Mein instead!
