Walking into my kitchen after a long day, there’s nothing quite as invigorating as the vibrant aromas of garlic and ginger wafting through the air. Tonight, I’m whipping up a quick and delightful Chicken Chow Mein (鸡肉炒面) that makes me forget all about greasy takeout. This dish combines tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and perfectly cooked chow mein noodles, all enveloped in a glossy, savory sauce that beckons you back for seconds.
With the hustle of everyday life, we often chase convenience over flavor. But what if I told you that a delicious homemade feast is just a few steps away? Whether you’re looking to impress family or escape the clutches of takeout, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is your ticket to culinary satisfaction. It’s not only easy and quick to prepare, but it also embraces fresh ingredients that bring the dish to life.
So, let’s dive in and craft a meal that’s as wholesome as it is mouthwatering!
Why is Chicken Chow Mein a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh Ingredients: Say goodbye to fast food! You’ll delight in using colorful veggies and tender chicken, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Versatility: Customize the dish by swapping proteins or veggies to match your preferences or what’s in your fridge.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that appeals to everyone, from kids to adults, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of minimal cleanup while savoring a delicious meal. For more easy meals, check out my other easy chicken recipes.
Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful dish!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Boneless Chicken (6 oz) – Main protein source; substitute with thighs or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Shaoxing Wine (2 tablespoons) – Adds depth of flavor; use dry sherry or skip for a non-alcoholic version.
- Cornstarch (2 teaspoons) – Helps tenderize chicken during marination.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
For the Sauce
- Chicken Broth (1/4 cup) – Adds moisture and flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- Oyster Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Key flavor component; substitute with vegetarian oyster sauce or a mix of soy and hoisin sauce.
- Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Provides umami taste; choose between light or dark soy sauce.
- Sugar (2 teaspoons) – Balances out the flavors beautifully.
- White Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle heat; black pepper can substitute if needed.
- Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon) – Imparts a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
For Stir-Frying
- Peanut Oil (2 tablespoons) – Ideal cooking fat for high heat; vegetable oil can be used instead.
- Shredded Cabbage (4 cups) – Adds crunch and volume; replace with a pre-cut coleslaw blend for convenience.
- Garlic (2 cloves) – Essential aromatic base flavor that enhances the dish.
- Ginger (1 tablespoon) – Provides warmth and a spicy kick.
For the Noodles and Vegetables
- Chow Mein Noodles (10 oz fresh or 6 oz dried) – Main carbohydrate; fresh is ideal, but dried works too—alternatives include yakisoba or spaghetti.
- Carrots (2 small, julienned) – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- Anaheim Pepper (optional) – For added heat; feel free to replace it with your preferred hot pepper.
- Green Onions (4) – Adds a refreshing crunch; use both white and green parts for maximum flavor.
Now that you’re armed with all the essential ingredients for this scrumptious Chicken Chow Mein (鸡肉炒面), it’s time to cook up a storm! Let’s jump into the instructions!
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the boneless chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- Mix the Sauce: In another bowl, stir together chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil. This savory mixture will elevate your dish.
- Cook Noodles: Follow package instructions to cook the chow mein noodles, cooking them slightly under if dried. Rinse and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Infuse Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil along with minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
- Stir-Fry Veggies: Toss in the carrots and shredded cabbage, stir-frying for 1 minute until just slightly softened and vibrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles, sautéed chicken, and sauce into the skillet. Toss everything together using tongs until each component is well-coated and heated through.
- Finish with Green Onions: Add the green onions and optional Anaheim pepper, tossing for another minute until the sauce is absorbed. Serve hot right away to enjoy the freshest flavors!
Optional: Top with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and visual appeal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chow Mein
- Fridge: Store Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Freeze Chicken Chow Mein in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To avoid clumping, layer it with parchment paper, separating servings if desired.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce’s consistency.
- Airtight Tips: Always ensure the container is airtight when storing to prevent freezer burn and preserve the delicious flavors of your homemade Chicken Chow Mein.
Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds!
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for firm tofu for a delicious meatless option. Simply marinate it the same way for extra flavor.
- Shrimp Upgrade: Replace chicken with shrimp for a lighter, seafood twist, cooking just until pink and tender for perfect results.
- Beef Option: Use thinly sliced beef instead of chicken for a heartier option, which pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.
- Extra Crunch: Add bean sprouts or water chestnuts for a delightful crunch. They bring texture and fresh flavor to every bite.
- Spice it Up: For some heat, toss in sliced jalapeños or your favorite hot pepper to the mix for an exciting kick.
- Vegetable Medley: Mix in bell peppers, snow peas, or zucchini; these veggies bring vibrant colors and added nutrition to your chow mein.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and rice noodles instead of chow mein noodles to keep it gluten-free.
- Noodle Alternatives: Experiment with thin rice noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti as substitutes for chow mein noodles, offering diverse flavors and textures.
Each variation allows you to explore different flavors and ingredients, making this dish truly your own! Enjoy the journey of cooking!
Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
- Prep Ingredients First: A key to quick cooking is having all your ingredients prepped before starting. This ensures a seamless stir-fry experience.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan; this allows for even cooking and a nice golden color.
- Sauce Adjustments: For extra flavor in your Chicken Chow Mein, feel free to experiment with adding more soy sauce or a hint of chili sauce for a spicy kick.
- Proper Noodle Cooking: If using dried chow mein noodles, make sure to slightly undercook them as they’ll continue to cook when tossed with the sauce.
- Storage Savvy: Store leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—great for quick lunches!
What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?
To create the perfect dining experience, complement your homemade Chicken Chow Mein with delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors and textures.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy and fresh, these rolls pair wonderfully with the stir-fry, adding a light crunch and neatly balancing the flavors. Perfect for sharing with family, they provide that authentic takeout feel.
- Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory dumplings make an ideal accompaniment. Whether filled with pork, chicken, or veggies, their delicious bite will elevate your meal and please your guests.
- Miso Soup: Light and hearty, miso soup offers a comforting touch to your dinner. Brimming with umami flavors, it’s a wonderful way to warm up before your Chow Mein takes center stage.
- Crisp Asian Salad: A refreshing salad tossed with a sesame dressing brightens the palette, creating a perfect contrast to the rich Chow Mein. Enjoy the mix of textures from crunchy cabbage and crisp carrots.
- Egg Fried Rice: This classic side not only stretches your meal but complements the dish with its savory flavors. The fluffy rice mixes well with the stir-fried goodness, providing a satisfying chew.
- Chilled Edamame: Light and full of protein, these seasoned soybeans make for a simple yet elegant side. Their bite-sized nature helps balance the rich chow mein while keeping the meal healthy.
- Lychee or Mango Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note! These refreshing desserts bring a tropical twist that cleanses your palate after the hearty Chow Mein.
- Green Tea or Jasmine Tea: Sip on aromatic teas that soothe the stomach and harmonize with the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience with their delicate flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt up to 24 hours in advance; this allows the flavors to deepen. Additionally, the sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply cook the noodles and stir-fry the vegetables, then combine everything with the previously marinated chicken and sauce for a quick finish. By prepping in advance, you’ll enjoy the same delicious taste without the last-minute rush, making family dinners a breeze!
Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
How do I select the freshest ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! When picking chicken, look for bright pink flesh and no dark spots. For vegetables, choose crisp, vibrant cabbage and carrots. If using fresh chow mein noodles, they should have a slight springiness; avoid any that are slimy.
How long can I store Chicken Chow Mein in the fridge?
You can keep Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it has cooled completely before sealing it to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Chow Mein for up to 3 months! To do this, let it cool down completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. For easy serving, layer parchment paper in between portions. Remember to label your container with the date!
What do I do if my noodles stick together after cooking?
Very! If your noodles end up sticking, next time try slightly undercooking them and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Additionally, tossing them with a little bit of oil before adding to the stir-fry can help keep them separate.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free soy sauce and substitute chow mein noodles with rice noodles. For vegetarians, you can easily swap chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables, ensuring that the sauce components remain gluten-free as well.
What’s the best way to reheat Chicken Chow Mein?
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, thaw frozen Chicken Chow Mein overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to help retain the sauce’s wonderful consistency. Toss it gently until heated through, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Savor Homemade Chicken Chow Mein in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the boneless chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- In another bowl, stir together chicken broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil.
- Follow package instructions to cook the chow mein noodles, cooking them slightly under if dried. Rinse and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil along with minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the carrots and shredded cabbage, stir-frying for 1 minute until just slightly softened.
- Add the cooked noodles, sautéed chicken, and sauce into the skillet. Toss everything together using tongs until each component is well-coated.
- Add the green onions and optional Anaheim pepper, tossing for another minute until the sauce is absorbed. Serve hot right away.
