Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

Sizzling Chicken Chow Mein Recipe: Your Tasty Homemade Delight

Crafting a delectable chicken chow mein always sparks excitement in my kitchen.

Noodles dance with crisp vegetables and tender meat, creating a symphony of flavors.

Woks sizzle with aromatic ingredients, promising a quick and satisfying meal.

My grandmother’s traditional techniques inspire this modern twist on a classic dish.

Weeknight dinners become extraordinary when you master these simple culinary skills.

Bold spices and perfectly cooked chicken elevate this comfort food to new heights.

Jump into this delicious adventure and transform your dinner routine tonight!

Why Chicken Chow Mein Stands Out

  • Quick and Easy Meal Prep: Whip up this restaurant-favorite dish in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave delicious Asian-inspired cuisine without complicated techniques.
  • Customizable Flavor Profile: Adjust ingredients easily by swapping vegetables, protein, or tweaking sauce proportions to match your taste preferences or dietary needs, making this recipe super versatile.
  • Nutritious One-Pan Dish: Pack your meal with lean protein from chicken, crisp vegetables, and balanced nutrients, all cooked in a single wok or skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor explosion.
  • Budget-Friendly Homemade Delight: Create a takeout-style meal at a fraction of restaurant prices, using common pantry ingredients and basic cooking skills that even novice home chefs can master with confidence.

Chicken Chow Mein Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:
  • Chow Mein Noodles: Classic Chinese wheat noodles perfect for stir-frying.
  • Chicken Breast: Tender, lean protein that absorbs flavors beautifully.
  • Cabbage: Crisp vegetable that adds wonderful texture to the dish.
  • Carrots: Bright orange vegetable with a sweet and crunchy profile.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Oyster Sauce: Rich, savory condiment with deep umami flavor.
  • Soy Sauce: Salty Asian seasoning that enhances overall taste.
  • Sesame Oil: Nutty oil that provides a distinctive Asian aroma.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid that adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
  • Cornstarch: Thickening agent for smooth and glossy sauce.
  • Sugar: Small touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
Aromatics and Garnish:
  • Garlic, Green Onions: Fresh ingredients that provide bright, sharp notes.
  • Vegetable Oil: Neutral cooking oil for stir-frying.

Chicken Chow Mein Cooking Guide

Step 1: Whip Up the Magical Sauce

In a medium bowl, blend oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sugar until silky smooth.

Set this flavor-packed mixture aside while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Boil and Tame the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.

Cook the chow mein noodles until they reach perfect al dente texture.

Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water to halt cooking.

Toss with a light drizzle of oil to keep them from clumping together.

Step 3: Sizzle the Chicken

Fire up a wok or large skillet with vegetable oil over high heat.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance for half a minute until aromatic.

Add chicken slices and cook until they turn golden and are completely done.

Transfer the cooked chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 4: Awaken the Vegetables

In the same pan, introduce more oil and add:
  • Shredded cabbage
  • Julienned carrots

Stir-fry over medium-high heat until vegetables are tender yet maintain a delightful crunch.

Step 5: Combine and Coat

Reunite the chicken with the vegetables in the pan.

Tumble in the prepared noodles and pour the reserved sauce over everything.

Toss and stir until each morsel is gloriously coated with the luscious sauce.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Sprinkle chopped green onions across the top for a fresh finish.

Serve piping hot and savor your homemade Chicken Chow Mein masterpiece.

Tips for Chicken Chow Mein Success

  • Use a carbon steel or cast-iron wok for authentic stir-frying and better heat distribution.
  • Chop, slice, and measure all ingredients before cooking to ensure smooth and quick stir-frying process.
  • Slightly undercook noodles since they'll continue cooking when mixed with hot ingredients, preventing mushy texture.
  • Swap chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef to create different variations of the classic chow mein recipe.
  • Whisk cornstarch thoroughly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy sauce that coats ingredients perfectly.

Saving & Reheating Chicken Chow Mein

  • Store leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Pack cooled chow mein in freezer-safe containers, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months without losing quality.
  • Warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent dryness. Stir frequently for even heating.
  • Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly and maintain texture.

Chow Mein Side Dish Ideas

  • Sip and Savor Companions: Perfect Pairings for Chicken Chow Mein
  • Crisp White Wine Delight: Select a light, refreshing Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that cuts through the dish's richness with its bright acidity, complementing the savory chicken and vegetable flavors.
  • Beer Buddy Match: Choose a crisp lager or Asian-style pale ale like Tsingtao, which offers a clean, smooth taste that balances the chow mein's umami notes and cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Fruity Mocktail Twist: Craft a zesty ginger-lime spritzer with sparkling water, fresh lime juice, and a hint of ginger syrup, providing a tangy and refreshing counterpoint to the salty, savory noodle dish.
  • Asian Tea Harmony: Brew a light green tea or jasmine tea that enhances the meal's subtle flavors, offers a cleansing effect, and provides a traditional Chinese dining experience with its delicate, aromatic profile.

Tasty Takes on Chicken Chow Mein

  • Veggie Chow Mein: Replace chicken with tofu or mixed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a plant-based version. Perfect for vegetarians seeking a protein-packed meal.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular chow mein noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free noodles. Use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce to maintain a celiac-friendly recipe.
  • Spicy Chow Mein Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce during the stir-fry process. Incorporate sliced fresh chili peppers for extra heat and depth of flavor.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. Reduce cornstarch in the sauce and use more chicken for increased protein content.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients that give Chicken Chow Mein its distinctive flavor?

The oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil create the classic umami taste that defines this dish. These ingredients blend together to provide a rich, savory profile that makes Chicken Chow Mein so delicious.

  • Can I use different types of noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chow mein noodles with egg noodles, lo mein noodles, or even spaghetti if needed. Just ensure you cook them al dente and rinse with cold water to prevent overcooking and maintain the right texture.

  • Is this dish considered healthy?

While Chicken Chow Mein contains protein from chicken and vegetables, it can be moderately high in sodium and calories. To make it healthier, use less oil, add more vegetables, and choose low-sodium soy sauce.

  • What cooking technique makes this dish special?

Stir-frying is the key technique that gives Chicken Chow Mein its signature texture. The high-heat cooking method helps retain the crispness of vegetables and creates a quick, even cooking process that seals in flavors.

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Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

Chicken Chow Mein Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory chicken chow mein delivers a delightful dance of textures and flavors straight from Chinese culinary traditions. Crisp vegetables and tender noodles create a quick, satisfying meal that brings authentic street food magic right to your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast (thinly sliced)

Vegetables:

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 large carrot (julienned)
  • 12 green onions (chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) chow mein noodles (uncooked)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a flavor-packed sauce by whisking oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sugar in a medium bowl until completely blended and smooth.
  2. Boil water in a large pot and cook chow mein noodles until they reach al dente texture. Quickly drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking, then lightly coat with oil to prevent clumping.
  3. Fire up a wok or skillet with vegetable oil over high heat. Sizzle minced garlic for a quick 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence. Introduce thinly sliced chicken breast and cook while stirring intermittently until the meat turns golden and is fully cooked through.
  4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a holding plate, then reuse the same pan to stir-fry shredded cabbage and julienned carrots over medium-high heat until they become tender yet maintain a delightful crunch.
  5. Reunite the chicken with the vegetables in the pan, then add the prepared noodles. Cascade the previously mixed sauce over the ingredients, thoroughly tossing to ensure every morsel is evenly coated with the savory mixture.
  6. Allow the ingredients to dance together for an additional two minutes, melding flavors and developing a harmonious texture. Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for a vibrant finish and serve piping hot.

Notes

  • Choose extra-firm noodles to prevent mushiness during stir-frying, ensuring a perfect texture that holds up well to high heat cooking.
  • Slice chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness, creating thin, uniform pieces that cook quickly and evenly.
  • Prep all ingredients before starting to cook, as stir-frying moves rapidly and requires immediate attention to prevent burning or overcooking.
  • Customize the recipe for dietary needs by substituting chicken with tofu, using gluten-free soy sauce, or adding more vegetables for a plant-based version.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 65 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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