Have you ever found yourself yearning for the unmistakable flavors of your favorite takeout, only to be deterred by the thought of unhealthy options? Let me introduce you to a delightful solution: Homemade Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce! Picture the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables mingling with tender strips of chicken, all enveloped in chewy noodles bathed in a glossy, savory sauce. This one-pan wonder not only simplifies your dinner routine but also brings the satisfaction of restaurant-quality cuisine right into your kitchen.
The magic of this dish lies not only in its incredible taste but also in its versatility. Whether you want to switch up the protein or toss in whatever veggies you have on hand, this recipe adapts to your preferences effortlessly. Plus, it’s quick enough for even the busiest weeknight, allowing you to savor a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Join me as we dive into this culinary adventure, transforming simple ingredients into a scrumptious feast!
Why is Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze, requiring just one pan and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor Packed: The best chow mein sauce delivers a depth of flavor that rivals your favorite takeout.
Customizable: Feel free to mix and match proteins and vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family’s personal favorites.
Healthier Option: Enjoy all the beloved flavors of chow mein while controlling the ingredients for a leaner, nutritious meal.
Satisfying Texture: With a delightful combination of chewy noodles, tender chicken, and crunchy veggies, each bite is a satisfying experience!
Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – Main protein source providing tenderness and substance; use boneless, skinless for convenience.
For the Noodles
• Chow Mein Noodles – The signature noodle that provides texture and body; use uncooked noodles or pre-cooked if you like.
For the Vegetables
• Cabbage – Adds crunch and nutritional value; choose green or napa cabbage for a milder taste.
• Large Carrot – For natural sweetness and vibrant color; julienne it for better cooking results.
• Green Onions – A fresh garnish with a mild onion flavor; can substitute with chives if preferred.
For the Sauce
• Oyster Sauce – Essential for savory depth; adjust the quantity to control saltiness.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Key seasoning that enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Light Sesame Oil – Adds a unique flavor; make sure it’s not toasted to keep the delicate notes.
• Chicken Broth – Moistens the sauce and enriches the flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Corn Starch – Used for thickening the sauce, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the savory flavors in the chow mein sauce.
For Cooking
• Oil – Necessary for frying chicken and vegetables; opt for olive or vegetable oil for flavor.
• Garlic Cloves – Essential for aromatic richness; always use fresh for best outcomes.
This Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce promises to be an absolute hit in your kitchen!
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
-
Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, blend together the oyster sauce, low sodium soy sauce, light sesame oil, chicken broth, and corn starch. This flavorful base is crucial for your Chicken Chow Mein, so give it a good stir and set it aside.
-
Cook the Noodles: Prepare the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Set aside for later.
-
Sauté the Chicken: Heat a splash of oil in a large wok over medium heat. Add bite-sized chicken strips and cook until they turn golden brown—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.
-
Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, toss in the julienned carrots, chopped cabbage, and crushed garlic. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until the veggies begin to soften but still maintain some crunch.
-
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken and chow mein noodles to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the top and gently toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish your Chicken Chow Mein with freshly chopped green onions for that final touch of freshness. Serve hot directly from the pan for a delightful dinner experience!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for enhanced flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
-
Preheat the Pan: Ensure your wok is hot before adding oil; this helps maintain the crispness of vegetables while stir-frying.
-
Noodle Choice Matters: Opt for uncooked chow mein noodles for the best results, ensuring they’re chewy when cooked; avoid overcooking them.
-
Sauce Consistency: Mix the sauce ingredients well before cooking; a smooth combination will coat the chicken chow mein evenly.
-
Vegetable Variety: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables! Bok choy or bell peppers can enhance flavor and color, making your dish even more appetizing.
-
Season to Taste: Adjust oyster sauce and soy sauce for your family’s preference; start with less if you’re unsure to avoid overpowering saltiness.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chow Mein
Fridge: Leftover Chicken Chow Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while ensuring the noodles and veggies maintain their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Chow Mein in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan over medium heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help revive the noodles and sauce for a deliciously fresh meal.
Quality Check: Freezing might change the texture a bit, especially with vegetables, but this Chicken Chow Mein is still flavorful and satisfying!
What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?
Take your dining experience to the next level by pairing your delicious Chicken Chow Mein with complementary dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors.
-
Spring Rolls: Crispy and savory, spring rolls add a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce. These fun bites will keep your meal exciting!
-
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread offers a comforting contrast to the crunchy vegetables. It’s a great way to soak up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
-
Stir-Fried Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans sautéed in sesame oil bring a fresh, vibrant color and a crunchy texture, perfectly balancing the soft noodles.
-
Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad with lime dressing adds sweetness and a zesty punch, brightening up your meal while providing a light, healthy option.
-
Orange Chicken: For a twist, orange chicken complements your chow mein beautifully, offering a sweet, tangy flavor profile that pairs well with the savory notes of the sauce.
-
Sesame Noodles: A side of sesame noodles can elevate your dinner, with its nutty flavor and soft texture harmonizing well with the Chicken Chow Mein’s combination of crunch and chew.
-
Iced Green Tea: Refreshing iced green tea enhances the meal with its fragrant notes, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chow mein.
-
Fruit Sorbet: Finish off your meal with a light fruit sorbet, which cleanses the palate and adds a sweet, refreshing end to your feast. It’s like a little taste of sunshine!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chow Mein dishes are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chow mein sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its flavors. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (cabbage, carrots, and green onions) and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours to maintain their crispness. When ready to serve, just cook the chicken and veggies, add the noodles, and pour in the prepared sauce; toss everything together for restaurant-quality Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce right at home!
Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Chow Mein and make it uniquely yours!
-
Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with beef, shrimp, pork, or tofu for a delightful twist.
-
Veggie Boost: Add in seasonal favorites like bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas to pack in extra nutrients and flavor.
-
Low-Carb Twist: Replace chow mein noodles with spiralized zucchini for a fresh, lighter alternative.
-
Heat It Up: Throw in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
-
Flavorful Additions: Toss in a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of hoisin sauce for an extra layer of complexity.
-
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top for a delightful crunch that enhances texture.
-
Soy Sauce Variation: Use tamari for a gluten-free option that maintains that savory depth.
-
Herbal Infusion: Fresh cilantro or basil can elevate flavors; toss in just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Each variation opens a world of possibilities, allowing you and your loved ones to enjoy this dish in new and exciting ways!
Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for my Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. Look for chicken that is firm and has a bright pink color; avoid any with dark spots or a strong odor.
How should I store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing. This way, you’ll keep the lovely flavors fresh while preserving the texture of the noodles and veggies!
Advertisement
Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
Certainly! To freeze, allow your Chicken Chow Mein to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat in a pan over medium heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth helps revive the noodles.
What if my noodles end up mushy after cooking?
Very! Mushy noodles can happen usually due to overcooking. Next time, cook your chow mein noodles just until al dente, as they’ll continue to soften when mixed with the sauce. Rinsing them under cold water immediately after cooking also helps prevent sticking and overcooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this Chicken Chow Mein?
Totally! This recipe can easily be modified to cater to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your noodles are certified gluten-free. If you have allergies, check for specific ingredients in sauces, as some may contain soy or shellfish.
Can I toss in different vegetables or proteins?
Absolutely! This Chicken Chow Mein is highly customizable. Feel free to swap chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu depending on your family’s preferences. You can also mix in veggies like bell peppers, bok choy, or snap peas based on availability or seasonal options. The more, the merrier!
Easy Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Ever
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- In a bowl, blend together the oyster sauce, low sodium soy sauce, light sesame oil, chicken broth, and corn starch. Set aside.
- Prepare the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large wok over medium heat. Cook the chicken strips until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the carrots, cabbage, and garlic for about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken and noodles to the pan. Pour the sauce over and toss gently. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.