Chicken Chow Mein

Make the best tasting Chicken Chow Mein that is even better than Chinese restaurant takeout using fresh ingredients and a rich sauce! This one-pan dinner is perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. It features tender juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and springy noodles combined with an aromatic brown sauce that makes every bite delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The rich blend of Shaoxing wine and oyster sauce elevates the taste beyond typical takeout.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
• Healthier Option: Using fresh ingredients makes this Chicken Chow Mein a healthier alternative to takeout.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Medium-sized bowl
• Small bowl
• Tongs
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking for your chicken and vegetables.
• Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken and mixing ingredients without making a mess.
• Tongs: Perfect for tossing the noodles and mixing everything together without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 6 oz boneless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, (or dry sherry)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine, (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, (or ground black pepper)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tablespoons peanut oil, (or vegetable oil)
• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 10 oz fresh chow mein noodles
• 2 small carrots, julienned (yields 1 cup)
• 1 anaheim pepper or other hot pepper of your choice, sliced (Optional)
• 4 green onions, cut into 2” (5 cm) pieces, white part halved lengthwise

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken along with the marinating ingredients into a medium-sized bowl. Mix well with your hands so the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and stir to mix well.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Boil the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Rinse with tap water, drain, and set aside. If using fresh chow mein noodles, briefly dip them in boiling water for about 1 minute. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Spread the chicken in the pan with minimal overlap. Cook until slightly golden on one side, about 30 to 45 seconds. Flip to cook until just white on the other side, another 30 to 45 seconds. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

Pour in remaining 1 tablespoon of oil along with ginger and garlic. Stir a few times to release their fragrance.

Step 6: Add Vegetables & Noodles

Add carrots and cabbage. Cook while stirring until veggies start to soften, about 1 minute. Add cooked noodles and toss gently. Then add cooked chicken back into the pan.

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Pour sauce over everything in the skillet. Toss well with tongs until mixed thoroughly. Finally, add pepper and green onions; toss until absorbed. Transfer everything to serving plates and serve hot as a main dish.

Enjoy this delightful Chicken Chow Mein that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your home!

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein

Serving Chicken Chow Mein can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use a mix of fresh lettuce or spinach as a base to add crunch and freshness.

With Extra Sauce

• Serve with additional sauce on the side for those who love extra flavor.

Garnished with Herbs

• Top with fresh cilantro or basil for an aromatic finish.

As a Wrap

• Spoon the chow mein into lettuce leaves for a fun and healthy wrap option.

Paired with Pickled Vegetables

• Serve alongside pickled cucumbers or radishes for a tangy contrast.

How to Perfect Chicken Chow Mein

Achieving the perfect Chicken Chow Mein requires attention to detail during preparation. Consider these helpful tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and chicken will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: This ensures they hold their shape and don’t become mushy when stir-frying.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying at high heat gives a nice sear on the chicken and vegetables, adding depth to the flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding steams instead of stir-fries, affecting texture.
• Mix Sauce Thoroughly: Ensuring all sauce ingredients are well combined before adding them helps distribute flavor evenly.
• Add Vegetables in Stages: Start with firmer vegetables first, then add softer ones later for perfect doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chow Mein

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Chow Mein can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies or meat make a delightful crunchy addition.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A light and savory soup that complements the heartiness of chow mein perfectly.
3. Fried Rice: A classic pairing that adds more carbs and flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment.
4. Chinese Broccoli: Steamed or stir-fried, this green vegetable adds nutrition and pairs well with the main dish.
5. Wontons: Fried or steamed wontons provide an extra layer of texture and taste to your meal.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances out the flavors of the chow mein.

These sides not only enhance your meal but also offer variety to your dining experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Chow Mein can be simple, but small mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden color and remove it from heat once it turns white.

• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or frozen vegetables can diminish the flavor. Always opt for fresh, crunchy veggies for the best taste.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating your chicken means missing out on flavor. Take the time to let the chicken soak in the marinade before cooking.

• Not Preparing Noodles Properly: Overcooking noodles leads to mushy textures. Follow package instructions and cook them al dente for that perfect bite.

• Ignoring Sauce Balance: A sauce that’s too salty or sweet can overpower your dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to find the right balance.

• Crowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once steams rather than stir-fries them. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that desired sear.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chicken Chow Mein can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power in short intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Chow Mein that many home cooks ask.

What is Chicken Chow Mein?

Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese dish featuring stir-fried noodles with chicken and vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Chicken Chow Mein spicier?

To add some heat, include sliced hot peppers or drizzle chili oil over your finished dish. Adjust based on your tolerance level!

Can I meal prep Chicken Chow Mein?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Store portions in containers and reheat easily throughout the week.

What vegetables work best in Chicken Chow Mein?

Cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas are excellent choices. Feel free to mix and match based on your liking!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with various proteins and vegetables to suit your taste. Give it a try for an easy weeknight dinner that beats takeout any day!