Have you ever found yourself longing for the comforting flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout, only to realize you have no desire to step out into the hustle and bustle? That’s exactly how this easy Chicken Chow Mein (鸡肉炒面) was born! With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and springy noodles all drenched in a savory brown sauce, this dish brings the tastes of a busy wok right to your kitchen in just 25 minutes. Picture this: the irresistible aroma wafting through your home as you sauté garlic and ginger, igniting a sense of warmth and nostalgia that only homemade meals can inspire. Plus, with simple swaps like tofu for a vegetarian option, this dish easily adapts to fit your dietary needs. Let’s dive into this quick and satisfying recipe that is sure to impress both family and friends without the stress of complicated cooking!
Why is Chicken Chow Mein a must-try?
Ease of Preparation: This Chicken Chow Mein recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight solution.
Flavorful Experience: The blend of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic sauce creates a satisfying medley that rivals takeout.
Customizable Ingredients: With suggested swaps for ingredients, it’s easily adaptable for various diets, such as using tofu or seasonal veggies.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy a quick cleanup with this delightful one-pan meal—less time washing dishes means more time savoring your delicious creation!
Elevate your dining experience and indulge in the rich flavors of this dish, a true crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. For another simple yet crowd-pleasing recipe, try my Crunchy Chinese Chicken for a delightful pairing!
Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs – Provides protein and structure. Substitution: Tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) – Adds depth of flavor. Substitution: Use chicken broth if alcohol-free.
• Cornstarch – Acts as a tenderizer by marinating the chicken.
• Salt – Enhances flavors of the dish.
For the Sauce
• Chicken Broth – Base for the sauce, adds moisture.
• Oyster Sauce – Introduces richness and umami. Substitution: Vegetarian oyster sauce or hoisin sauce mix (1/2 tbsp soy, 1/2 tbsp dark soy, 1 tbsp hoisin).
• Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and depth.
• Sugar – Balances the savory flavors of the sauce.
• White or Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and slight heat.
• Sesame Oil – Imparts a distinct nutty aroma.
For the Veggies & Noodles
• Peanut Oil (or Vegetable Oil) – High smoke point for stir-frying.
• Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch and nutrition. Substitution: 5 cups of pre-cut coleslaw mix for convenience.
• Garlic – Introduces aromatic flavor.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and spice.
• Fresh Chow Mein Noodles (or Dried) – Base of the dish, offers chewy texture. Substitution: Yakisoba or spaghetti if chow mein is unavailable.
• Small Carrots (julienned) – Adds sweetness and color.
• Anaheim Pepper or Hot Pepper (Optional) – Provides additional spice.
• Green Onions – Adds fresh flavor and garnish.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a delightful Chicken Chow Mein that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen!
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
- Marinate the sliced chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and enhance tenderness.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing together chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil in a small bowl until combined.
- Cook the fresh chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside while you stir-fry the chicken.
- Heat peanut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, cooking each side until just browned—around 1 minute per side—before removing the chicken from the skillet.
- Sauté garlic and ginger in the same skillet until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add in the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots, cooking just until slightly tender, around 1 minute.
- Toss the cooked noodles and chicken back into the skillet, pouring the sauce over everything. Stir well to combine and ensure an even coating, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Add the optional peppers and sliced green onions, mixing thoroughly. Allow everything to heat together for another minute, then serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor and tenderness; simply cover and refrigerate. You can also prepare the sauce (mixing the chicken broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and spices) and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just sauté the marinated chicken, toss in the fresh veggies and noodles, and pour over the prepared sauce. This way, your Chicken Chow Mein will be just as delicious and come together seamlessly, saving you precious time for dinner!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chow Mein
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Allow the dish to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Chow Mein in a suitable airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?
Elevate your dining experience by perfectly pairing your homemade creation with delightful sides and drinks.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Complements the savory flavors while adding a fragrant, fluffy texture to balance the dish.
- Egg Rolls: These crispy, savory bites add crunch and an extra layer of deliciousness, making your meal feel complete.
- Hot and Sour Soup: The spicy and tangy notes of this soup offer a warming contrast to the sweet and savory elements of chow mein.
- Sesame Spinach Salad: A vibrant salad with a sesame dressing enhances freshness, providing a crisp and light counterbalance to the richer Chicken Chow Mein.
- Chili Oil: Drizzle a few drops on top for an engaging heat that beautifully complements the umami flavors already present in the dish.
- Lychee Juice: This sweet, refreshing beverage offers a delightful contrast, cleansing the palate between bites while enhancing the Asian-inspired meal.
Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
- Prep Ingredients First: Ensure all ingredients are prepped beforehand. This speeds up the cooking process and prevents burning or overcooked components.
- Watch the Noodles: If using dried noodles, remember to cook them for one minute less than the package instructions recommend. This helps prevent them from becoming mushy in the stir-fry.
- Thickening the Sauce: For a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the mixture during the final stage of cooking. This enhances the texture of your Chicken Chow Mein.
- High Heat is Key: Use high heat during stir-frying for that perfect sear on the chicken and crispy veggies. This keeps flavors vibrant and textures appealing.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas all work beautifully in this Chicken Chow Mein recipe!
Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Embrace the magic of customization with these delightful twists that can elevate your Chicken Chow Mein!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu, marinating it just like the chicken for a hearty alternative that’s equally satisfying.
- Seafood Delight: Swap in shrimp or scallops if you’re craving a seafood spin. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they’re perfectly tender.
- Crunchy Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini for a colorful veggie medley that enhances texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding extra chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for a zesty finish that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Noodle Variety: Use udon noodles or noodles made from sweet potatoes for a gluten-free option that still delivers on texture and flavor.
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with a splash of hoisin sauce or a dash of sesame seeds to deepen the umami flavor profile of your chow mein.
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate a handful of cashews or peanuts towards the end of cooking for a delightful crunch and added richness.
- Herbaceous Note: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic freshness that brightens each bite!
Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Chow Mein?
For Chicken Chow Mein, boneless chicken breast or thighs work best as they both provide the juiciness and texture that enhances the dish. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu is a fantastic substitute!
How should I store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
You can store leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it to maintain its freshness.
Can Chicken Chow Mein be frozen and how do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the container. For reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water, stirring until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
What if my Chicken Chow Mein turns out too salty?
If you find your Chicken Chow Mein too salty, try adding a bit more cooked, unsalted noodles or vegetables to dilute the saltiness. You can also sprinkle in a small amount of sugar to balance the flavors or add a bit of water or chicken broth to soak up some of the saltiness.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider for Chicken Chow Mein?
Definitely! For those with allergies, be aware that soy sauce contains gluten, so you can opt for tamari or gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute. If you have shellfish allergies, make sure to use vegetarian oyster sauce instead of the conventional one. And don’t forget—always inform guests about the ingredients used, especially if serving someone with dietary restrictions!
The Best Chicken Chow Mein You'll Crave Over Takeout
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the sliced chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing together chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil in a small bowl until combined.
- Cook the fresh chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
- Heat peanut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, cooking each side until just browned—around 1 minute per side.
- Sauté garlic and ginger in the same skillet until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add in the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots, cooking just until slightly tender, around 1 minute.
- Toss the cooked noodles and chicken back into the skillet, pouring the sauce over everything. Stir well to combine and ensure an even coating, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Add the optional peppers and sliced green onions, mixing thoroughly. Allow everything to heat together for another minute, then serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
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