Chicken Chow Mein
When it comes to quick, satisfying meals, Chicken Chow Mein reigns supreme. This delightful stir-fried dish, filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory noodles, is a go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Not only does it pack a flavor punch, but it also allows for endless customization, making it a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that brings a taste of the streets of China right into your kitchen.
The Upside of Chicken Chow Mein
Chicken Chow Mein isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. This dish is a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, ensuring that every bite is not only flavorful but also nutritious. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich, umami flavor that wraps around the stir-fried ingredients. Plus, it comes together in under thirty minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights. With its colorful presentation and rich flavor, your family will be asking for seconds!
Ingredient List
- 12 oz chow mein stir-fry noodles
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ cup water
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts, thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon + ½ cup vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cups (8 oz) thinly sliced green cabbage, from 1 small cabbage
- 2 stalks celery, very thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 6 scallions, dark and light green parts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large skillet or wok for stir-frying
- Cutting board and sharp knife for slicing ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
Chicken Chow Mein Cooking Guide
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking the chow mein stir-fry noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. This step ensures your chicken will be tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ cup of vegetable oil. Toss in the garlic, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the green cabbage, celery, and shredded carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles and chicken are well-coated with the sauce. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, toss in the scallions and give everything one last stir. Serve hot, garnished with extra scallions if desired. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Chow Mein!
Allergy-Friendly Substitutes
- For soy sauce, use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Replace oyster sauce with a mushroom-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free option.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein.
Little Things that Matter
When preparing Chicken Chow Mein, a few tips can elevate your dish:
- Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients for a proper stir-fry.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, cook in batches to achieve that perfect sear.
- Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and flavor.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes in soy sauce and sesame oil before cooking.
How to Store & Reheat
Leftover Chicken Chow Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for a couple of minutes or stir-fry it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it from drying out.
Ask the Chef
Can I use other proteins in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a delicious twist!
What if I don’t have chow mein noodles?
If chow mein noodles aren’t available, you can use other types of noodles like spaghetti or even rice noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Chow Mein can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. However, the vegetables may lose some crispness upon reheating.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for some heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha when stir-frying the vegetables. You can also serve it with chili oil on the side.
Keep Cooking
- Honey Garlic Chicken Brussels Sprouts Skillet – A delicious and quick dish that complements any meal.
- Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Cutlets – Perfect for those who love a crunchy texture in their chicken dishes.
The Last Word
Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, Chicken Chow Mein is a versatile dish that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. With its delightful flavors and quick preparation time, you’ll find yourself making this meal again and again. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this vibrant, homemade classic that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
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Chicken Chow Mein
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cooking the chow mein stir-fry noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. This step ensures your chicken will be tender and flavorful.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ cup of vegetable oil. Toss in the garlic, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the green cabbage, celery, and shredded carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles and chicken are well-coated with the sauce. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Finally, toss in the scallions and give everything one last stir. Serve hot, garnished with extra scallions if desired. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Chow Mein!
Notes
- Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients for a proper stir-fry.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, cook in batches to achieve that perfect sear.
- Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and flavor.
