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There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Chicken Chow Mein wafting through your kitchen, instantly transporting you to your favorite Chinese restaurant. As the crunch of sautéed vegetables meets the tender chicken and the chewy noodles, you can taste the magic of homemade flavors that far surpass takeout. This delightful dish is not only quick to whip up, making it perfect for your busy weeknights, but it’s also entirely customizable—choose fresh or dried noodles and your favorite veggies to suit your mood.

I recently found myself yearning for that classic takeout taste but without the added guilt of fast food. With a few simple ingredients and one pan, I created a nourishing meal that left everyone at the table asking for seconds. Join me as I guide you through crafting this vibrant Chicken Chow Mein that promises a delightful blend of flavors and textures, turning your dinner routine into a celebration.

Why will you love Chicken Chow Mein?

Ease of Preparation: This recipe is effortlessly simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer fresh or dried noodles, the choice is yours! Use your favorite veggies for a personalized touch.
Bold Flavors: Enjoy the savory blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and aromatic garlic and ginger that will elevate your dinner to new heights.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, meaning minimal cleanup and more time to savor your meal!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With tender chicken and vibrant veggies, it’s a hit with the whole family, even the picky eaters. Plus, why not check out some more delicious options in our weeknight dinner collection?

Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs – Main protein providing juiciness; feel free to substitute with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian option.
• Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) – Adds depth of flavor; switch to chicken broth for an alcohol-free version.
• Cornstarch – Helps marinate the chicken for tenderness.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor.

For the Sauce
• Chicken Broth – Acts as a base for the sauce, contributing moisture and richness.
• Oyster Sauce – Provides umami flavor; if needed, use vegetarian oyster sauce as a substitute.
• Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and enhances flavor; you can opt for light or regular soy sauce.
• Sugar – Balances flavors and introduces a delightful touch of sweetness.
• White Pepper (or Ground Black Pepper) – Introduces mild spiciness that’s adjustable according to taste.
• Sesame Oil – A finishing oil that adds nuttiness; it’s optional but highly recommended.

For the Vegetables
• Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch; a pre-cut coleslaw mix can be a convenient substitute.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is key for depth of flavor.
• Ginger – Must be fresh for the best results.
• Carrots – Add sweetness and color; bell peppers can be a great alternative.
• Anaheim Pepper (or other hot pepper) – Optional for added heat; it can be omitted if preferred.
• Green Onions – Used for garnish and flavor; make sure to include both green and white parts.

For the Noodles
• Fresh or Dried Chow Mein Noodles – A key component affecting texture; go for fresh noodles if possible; dried works too if fresh isn’t available.

With these vibrant ingredients at your disposal, crafting a delectable Chicken Chow Mein that rivals takeout is within reach. Enjoy the adventure of bringing authentic flavors to your home kitchen!

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein

Marinate: In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to ensure it’s flavorful and tender.
Mix Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil. This fragrant blend will bring your chow mein to life!
Cook Noodles: Prepare the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. For fresh noodles, immerse them in boiling water for just a couple of minutes, then drain.
Heat Oil: In a large nonstick skillet, heat peanut oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will ensure a great sear on the chicken.
Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and fry until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside, letting the pan retain that delicious flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add shredded cabbage and carrots, cooking until just softened.
Combine Ingredients: Toss the prepared noodles and cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything, mixing it gently as you cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Finish & Serve: Add sliced pepper and green onions, tossing them in for a fresh touch. Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Optional: Top with sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the sliced chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it stays flavorful and tender. Additionally, you can chop your vegetables, like shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply prepare the sauce and noodles, then sauté everything together, mixing in the marinated chicken and vegetables. Following these steps will help you enjoy a delicious and fresh Chicken Chow Mein with minimal effort, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chow Mein

Room Temperature: Chicken Chow Mein is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to avoid dryness.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring in additional sauce if needed to maintain moisture.

What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?

Elevate your homemade Chicken Chow Mein experience with delightful sides and pairings that bring balance to your meal.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights are perfect for dunking in soy sauce, adding an addictive crunch to your meal.
Garlic Edamame: Lightly salted and tossed with sesame oil, they offer a fresh and savory contrast that enhances the flavors of chow mein.
Vegetable Fried Rice: A hearty and colorful companion that perfectly complements the chow mein’s textures, creating a satisfying dining experience.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple and bright, its subtle bitterness balances the richness of the chow mein while delivering a nutritious boost.
Mango Salad: The sweet and tangy notes of mango contrast beautifully with savory flavors, refreshing your palate with each bite.
Chilled Green Tea: This soothing drink is a lovely way to wash down the savory elements while keeping you refreshed.
Sesame Noodles: A playful twist! Their nutty taste pairs well with the chow mein, making it a fun, complementary dish.
Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a light note with this sweet, tart refresher that cleanses the palate beautifully.

Each of these options enhances the comforting essence of your Chicken Chow Mein, turning dinner into a culinary celebration!

Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein

Ingredient Prep: Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure nothing burns while you’re multitasking.
Noodle Choice: Fresh chow mein noodles give the best texture. If using dried, cook them just until al dente so they maintain a pleasant chew in the final dish.
Balance Flavors: Feel free to adjust sauce ingredients according to your taste. Adding a bit more soy sauce or a splash of chili oil can kick up the flavor profile for your Chicken Chow Mein!
Avoid Overcrowding: When frying the chicken, don’t overcrowd the skillet; this will allow it to brown properly rather than steam, enhancing flavor and texture.
Vegetable Variations: Get creative with your vegetables! Depending on what’s in season or in your fridge, you can include bok choy, snap peas, or bell peppers for additional crunch and color.

Chicken Chow Mein Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore delightful twists and make this Chicken Chow Mein uniquely yours!

Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different flavor and texture. Each option brings its own charm!
Vegetable Mix: Experiment with seasonal vegetables or whatever is in your fridge. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas add delicious crunch and color.
Nutty Addition: Stir in some chopped nuts like cashews or peanuts for an extra texture boost. The nutty flavor complements the sauce perfectly.
Vegan Delight: Use tofu and a plant-based oyster sauce to create a satisfying vegan version. The flavors remain rich and beautiful!
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños or chili flakes. Adjust levels to match your spice tolerance and keep that warmth coming!
Noodle Options: Fresh chow mein noodles are great, but rice noodles or even zoodles can be used for a gluten-free twist. Get creative with your noodles!
Cabbage Alternatives: Change up the cabbage with kale or spinach for a nutritious boost. They will wilt nicely and soak up all the flavors.
Sauce Variations: Add a splash of hoisin sauce for additional sweetness or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick! Tailor the sauce to suit your palate.

Exploring these variations will help you discover your family’s new favorite version of Chicken Chow Mein!

Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Chow Mein?
Boneless chicken breast or thighs work best for this dish due to their juiciness and tenderness. If you prefer a vegetarian option, feel free to substitute with tofu or seitan for delightful results.

How should I store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of water to prevent dryness—nobody likes that!

Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your Chicken Chow Mein in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently in a skillet, stirring in a bit of extra sauce if necessary to keep it moist.

What if my chow mein noodles are too soggy?
If you find your noodles soggy, this could be due to overcooking. To fix it, briefly re-sauté them in a hot nonstick skillet with a splash of oil. This will help revive their texture and absorb some of the moisture.

Are there any allergy concerns with Chicken Chow Mein?
Yes, this recipe contains ingredients like soy sauce and oyster sauce, which can trigger allergies. If you are sensitive to soy, look for a gluten-free or soy-free alternative, and opt for mushroom-based sauces to replace the oyster sauce. Always double-check with your guests for any dietary restrictions before serving!