When a busy week strikes and the takeout menu starts to look all too familiar, I turn to my go-to recipe: Chicken Chow Mein. The moment I begin cooking, the cheerful sizzle of garlic and ginger fills the air, transforming my kitchen into a cozy haven. Within just 25 minutes, I’m indulging in a vibrant dish bursting with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles, all enveloped in a glossy, savory sauce that beats any restaurant version.
What I love most about this homemade chow mein is its customizable nature. Craving extra crunch? Toss in some snap peas. Prefer a vegetarian option? Tofu works just as well! This dish is not only a fantastic weeknight dinner solution, but it also turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that everyone at the table will adore. So, let’s whip up a dish that’s just as delightful to cook as it is to eat!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chow Mein
Quick preparation time: You can create this delightful dish in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh ingredients: Using vibrant vegetables and tender chicken ensures you get a nutrient-packed meal.
Customizable options: Swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, like tofu or shrimp, for a personal touch.
Flavorful sauce: A blend of oyster sauce and soy sauce creates a robust flavor that competes with takeout.
Easy to make: This one-pan recipe minimizes clean-up, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
Elevate your cooking game tonight with this quick weeknight dinner!
Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
Get ready to create the most delicious Chicken Chow Mein that will impress your family and friends!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs – Tender protein that can be swapped with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) – Adds depth; switch to chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Cornstarch – Essential for tenderizing the chicken; no substitutes needed.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor and brings out the best in your ingredients.
For the Sauce
- Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and savory richness; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
- Oyster Sauce – Infuses a rich umami flavor; consider using vegetarian oyster sauce or hoisin sauce if needed.
- Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and color; choose regular or light dependent on taste preference.
- Sugar – Balances the flavors beautifully; can be replaced with honey or agave syrup if desired.
- White Pepper – Delivers heat and complexity; feel free to use black pepper as an alternative.
- Sesame Oil – Offers a nutty aroma; omit if you have allergies.
For the Vegetables
- Peanut Oil (or Vegetable Oil) – Ideal for high-heat cooking; substitute with canola or sunflower oil if desired.
- Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch and texture; coleslaw mix works great for convenience.
- Garlic – A flavor enhancer that you simply can’t skip!
- Ginger – Provides warmth and depth; feel free to omit for milder flavors.
- Fresh Chow Mein Noodles (or Dried) – Critical for achieving authentic texture; yakisoba noodles or spaghetti can be used instead.
- Carrots – Adds a touch of sweetness; you can replace them with bell peppers if you like.
- Anaheim Pepper (or Other Hot Pepper) – Optional for those who love an extra kick; any variety can be swapped in or left out.
- Green Onions – Brings freshness and color to the dish; substitute with chives if preferred.
Dive in and let these fresh ingredients turn your kitchen into a flavor-packed paradise!
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
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Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine boneless chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated—this enhances tenderness.
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Prepare Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil until well combined.
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Cook Noodles: Boil chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water and drain to prevent stickiness.
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Sauté Chicken: Heat peanut oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, then remove and set aside.
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Stir-fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, stir-fry minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add shredded cabbage and carrots, cooking until softened.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and noodles to the skillet. Drizzle the sauce over everything, tossing gently to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly.
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Finish: Stir in sliced peppers and green onions, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is absorbed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?
Transform your weeknight meals with vibrant pairings that elevate your homemade chow mein experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy texture of jasmine rice provides a perfect base to soak up every drop of the savory sauce.
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Egg Rolls: Crisp and filled with savory vegetables, egg rolls add a delightful crunch and complement the flavors of chow mein beautifully. Pair with sweet and sour sauce for an extra zing!
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Sweet and Spicy Asian Slaw: This refreshing slaw brings a crunchy contrast, balancing the warm, savory flavors of chow mein while adding a pop of color to your meal.
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Miso Soup: A light, comforting soup can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the enjoyment of your chow mein without overpowering its flavors.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Bursting with freshness, a cool cucumber salad contrasts well with hot chow mein, bringing a nice textural variety to the table.
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Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea offers a smooth finish, complementing the rich flavors of your chicken chow mein while promoting relaxation after a busy day.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chow Mein preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine it with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt, then cover and refrigerate. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce and chop your vegetables (like cabbage, carrots, and green onions) up to 3 days ahead. Store the chopped veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When it’s time to cook, boil the noodles and sauté everything together as instructed for a deliciously quick meal, ensuring your Chicken Chow Mein is just as vibrant and flavorful as if it were made on the spot!
Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity and transform your Chicken Chow Mein into something uniquely delightful!
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh for a satisfying plant-based meal. Their texture will absorb flavors beautifully.
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Seafood Delight: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a quick seafood twist. Just sauté until they turn pink and juicy.
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Extra Crunch: Add snap peas and water chestnuts for an added crunch that makes every bite exciting. These will bring delightful textures.
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Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or sriracha to ramp up the heat level. It’ll add a fiery burst that spice lovers crave!
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Noodle Alternatives: Use rice noodles or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a gluten-free or low-carb option. They will soak up the savory sauce perfectly.
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Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or chili garlic sauce to the mix for an extra flavor punch. It’s an easy way to elevate your dish!
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Colorful Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or baby corn for a pop of color and nutrition. Not only do they look great, but they also enhance the flavor profile.
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Cabbage Variations: Use kale or bok choy instead of cabbage for a different leafy texture that’s just as delicious. Each brings its own unique taste and nutrition!
Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
- Prep Ahead: Gather and chop all your ingredients before starting to cook. This facilitates a smooth cooking process and prevents overcooking.
- Right Pan: Use a nonstick skillet or wok to ensure the chicken and vegetables don’t stick and cook evenly.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the chicken, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and prevents steaming.
- Customize Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to swap out veggies depending on what’s on hand or in season. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can add great flavor and nutrition to your Chicken Chow Mein.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Adding a pinch more sugar or soy sauce can enhance the overall flavor.
- Perfect Noodles: Rinse the cooked chow mein noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Storage Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
- Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the ingredients safe.
- Freezer: If you want to freeze, place the chow mein in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2 months. Just remember to cool it completely before sealing!
- Reheating: For the best texture, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help revive the noodles and veggies.
- Avoid Long Storage: While Chicken Chow Mein can be stored, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Try to consume it within the recommended timeframes for optimal taste!
Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe vegetables for my Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For cabbage, choose heads that feel heavy for their size, with crisp, unblemished leaves. Carrots should be bright orange and smooth, while bell peppers should have a shiny, taut surface. This ensures you’re using the freshest ingredients that enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
Very! Store your Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness. For longer storage, place it in a freezer-safe container where it can last for approximately up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with the date!
Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze Chicken Chow Mein, follow these steps:
- Allow the dish to cool at room temperature, about 30 minutes.
- Portion the meal into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
- Seal the containers tightly and label them with the date.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet until warmed through.
What should I do if my Chicken Chow Mein turns out too salty?
No worries! If your dish ends up too salty, there are a few things you can try. Adding a splash of unsalted chicken broth can balance the flavors. You can also incorporate some cooked, plain rice or noodles, which absorb excess saltiness. If there’s freshness lacking, adding a bit of lemon juice or vinegar at the end can brighten the flavors up too!
Is it safe for pets or anyone with allergies to eat Chicken Chow Mein?
While Chicken Chow Mein is delicious for humans, it’s not suitable for pets, particularly due to ingredients like garlic, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. If someone has allergies, ensure to replace any allergens in the recipe. For example, use a gluten-free soy sauce for those with gluten intolerance, and make sure to adjust for any specific allergies like sesame oil or peanuts. Always prioritize your loved ones’ safety!
Can I make Chicken Chow Mein vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, simply swap the chicken for tofu and adjust the sauce ingredients by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For vegan variations, ensure all sauces (like oyster sauce) are plant-based, such as using a mushroom-based oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. This customizability keeps it enjoyable for everyone!
Quick & Easy Chicken Chow Mein: Your New Weeknight Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine boneless chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until evenly coated.
- In another bowl, whisk together chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil.
- Boil chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water and drain.
- Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken until golden brown, then remove.
- In the same skillet, stir-fry minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, then add cabbage and carrots, cooking until softened.
- Return the cooked chicken and noodles to the skillet. Drizzle the sauce over and toss gently.
- Stir in sliced peppers and green onions, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Serve hot.