Name: Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, boneless, skinless; 3 Tbsp oil; 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles); 2 cups cabbage; 1 large carrot, julienned; 1/2 batch green onions; 2 cloves garlic (pressed); 4 Tbsp oyster sauce (or added to taste); 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce; 3 Tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 Tbsp corn starch; 1 Tbsp granulated sugar

Introduction to Chicken Chow Mein

Why Make Chicken Chow Mein at Home?

If you've ever savored a delicious plate of Chicken Chow Mein from your favorite Chinese restaurant, you know just how satisfying it is. But have you ever considered creating this classic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen? Making Chicken Chow Mein at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also guarantees freshness and flavor that rival any takeout.

Cooking at home opens the door to endless customization. Want extra veggies or a kick of heat? Add your favorite ingredients! By whipping up your chow mein, you can tailor the dish to your dietary preferences and ensure that every bite is just how you like it. Plus, making this dish is a breeze! With just one pan and a little prep time, you can beat the clock and impress your friends or family with a homemade meal.

Moreover, the star of this dish isn't just the chicken or the noodles; it's the incredible Chow Mein Sauce. With pantry staples like oyster sauce and soy sauce, you create a rich, savory base that's simply irresistible. So grab your wok and let's get started on a meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite! Check out more tips on making homemade Asian dishes on Serious Eats.

Ready to learn how to make this dish? Let's dive into the full recipe!

Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

Essential ingredients

To create a delicious Chicken Chow Mein, you’ll need a mix of both fresh ingredients and pantry staples that come together in this savory dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless): The star protein in your dish.
3 tablespoon oil: For cooking; vegetable or olive oil works well.
12 oz chow mein noodles: Uncooked, of course.
2 cups cabbage: For that crunchy texture.
1 large carrot: Julienned for sweetness.
½ batch green onions: Chopped, for garnish.
2 garlic cloves: Minced, to add aromatic flavor.

For the Chow Mein Sauce, have these on hand:

4 tablespoon oyster sauce
3 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoon light sesame oil (not toasted)
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon corn starch
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Optional add-ins for extra flavor

Want to elevate your Chicken Chow Mein even further? Consider these optional ingredients for an extra flavor boost:

Bell peppers or snow peas: For added crunch and color.
Mushrooms: Sautéed for an earthy touch.
Peanuts or cashews: For a delightful crunch.

Experiment with these add-ins to personalize your chow mein dish! Add them to your shopping list, and you'll certainly impress your taste buds. For tips on selecting fresh vegetables, check out this guide on produce selection.

Step-by-step Preparation of Chicken Chow Mein

Making Chicken Chow Mein at home is not only a healthy alternative to takeout, but it’s also a rewarding culinary adventure that brings incredible flavors to your kitchen. Follow these simple steps for a delightful dish that serves eight!

Prepare the chicken

Start by trimming 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut them into bite-sized strips to ensure they cook evenly and fit perfectly into your chow mein. The key here is to season the chicken lightly, perhaps with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, to enhance its flavor. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large wok over medium heat, and once hot, add the chicken. Cook until it’s golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside. This step creates a base flavor that will infuse your entire dish.

Cook the chow mein noodles

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare your chow mein noodles. Take 12 ounces of uncooked noodles and cook them according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming sticky. The cold water will help maintain the perfect texture when you mix them back in later. Setting these noodles aside lets the flavors meld together beautifully in the next steps.

Sauté the vegetables

Now, it’s time to bring some freshness into your Chicken Chow Mein. In the same wok, add your vegetables. You’ll need 2 cups of shredded cabbage and a large carrot, julienned. For added depth, include 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté everything together until the veggies soften—roughly 3-5 minutes. You want the cabbage to turn slightly translucent while still retaining a vibrant crunch. This mixture builds the foundation for a colorful and nutritious meal.

Combine ingredients in the wok

With your chicken and veggies ready, it’s time to bring them together! Return the cooked chicken and drained chow mein noodles to the wok. This is where the magic happens; toss everything gently but thoroughly to mix all those beautiful flavors and textures together. Make sure everything is well combined—no chicken or vegetable left behind!

Add the chow mein sauce

Now for the grand finale! Pour your pre-prepared chow mein sauce—made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sugar—over the mixture in the wok. Continue to cook, stirring gently for another two minutes. This allows the sauce to coat all the ingredients beautifully, giving you a glossy, flavorful dish that’s simply irresistible. For a colorful finish, garnish with chopped green onions on top before serving.

And there you have it! Your homemade Chicken Chow Mein is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it straight from the pan for a delightful and delightful one-pan meal. For more delicious recipes, check out resources like The Spruce Eats for inspiration and tips! Enjoy your cooking!

Variations on Chicken Chow Mein

Vegetarian Chicken Chow Mein

Looking for a delightful twist on the classic? Try Vegetarian Chicken Chow Mein! Simply swap out the chicken for tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Add in a variety of colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas to keep it vibrant and nutritious. This version hits all the right notes to please even non-vegetarians. You can check out more vegetarian recipes here to expand your culinary horizons.

Spicy Chicken Chow Mein

For those who crave a kick, Spicy Chicken Chow Mein is the answer! Just incorporate some sliced jalapeños or a splash of chili sauce into the chow mein sauce to turn up the heat. It's an easy way to elevate this dish and add some exciting flavors. If you're a fan of heat, check out this guide on spices and their benefits to explore more flavor options!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Chow Mein

Tips for Perfect Noodles

For a delightful Chicken Chow Mein, cooking the noodles just right is key. Follow package instructions meticulously, but be careful not to overcook them; a bit of bite (or al dente) is perfect. After cooking, rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent sticking. This little trick is essential for ensuring your chow mein noodles remain perfectly textured throughout.

Adjusting the Sauce to Your Taste

Chicken Chow Mein sauce is where the magic happens! Feel free to tweak the sweetness or saltiness based on your preference. If you love a richer flavor, increase the oyster sauce slightly. For a sweeter touch, add a smidge more sugar. Make it your own! Remember, the beauty of home cooking is personalizing it to suit your palate. If you're unsure, start with the original measurements and adjust gradually after tasting. Enjoy exploring flavors!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Chow Mein

Ideal Side Dishes

To make your Chicken Chow Mein an even more delightful experience, consider pairing it with light and refreshing sides. A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame is a great choice. Alternatively, steamed dumplings provide a satisfying texture contrast. If you're feeling adventurous, try a side of edamame beans seasoned with sea salt for extra protein!

Recommended Garnishes

Garnishes can elevate your dish in both flavor and presentation. Sprinkle chopped green onions over your Chicken Chow Mein just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. You could also add a handful of sesame seeds for a nutty finish. A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can introduce a touch of heat, balancing the dish beautifully.

For more tips on enhancing your meal, check out Serious Eats' guide on garnishing. Embrace these serving suggestions and watch your Chicken Chow Mein shine!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Chow Mein

Preparation time
Get ready to dive into cooking! You'll need about 15 minutes for chopping, measuring, and prepping everything to make your chicken chow mein as delicious as possible.

Cooking time
The actual cooking is quick. It takes around 20 minutes to sauté, stir-fry, and meld all those wonderful flavors together.

Total time
In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this fantastic one-pan meal that'll impress your friends and family—much quicker than a takeout order!

Now that you have a sense of how to organize your cooking, let’s proceed to the full recipe of Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Chow Mein

Calories

Each serving of Chicken Chow Mein packs approximately 340 calories, making it a satisfying yet health-conscious choice for dinner.

Carbohydrates

In this delightful dish, you'll find about 41 grams of carbohydrates per serving, primarily from savory chow mein noodles and fresh veggies, providing the energy to keep you active.

Protein

With around 28 grams of protein per serving, this Chicken Chow Mein is a fantastic way to fuel your body after a long day, thanks to the lean chicken breast packed with high-quality protein.

For more in-depth nutritional information, check out resources like the USDA Food Composition Database or NutritionData to get tailored insights based on your preferences. Eating well doesn't have to be complicated, and this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is a great step towards your health goals!

FAQs about Chicken Chow Mein

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein in advance?

Absolutely! Preparing Chicken Chow Mein in advance can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together. Simply cook your dish, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for meal prep or quick dinners.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you’re looking for a substitute for oyster sauce due to dietary restrictions or preference, you can try using soy sauce mixed with a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. Another option is hoisin sauce, which offers a similar flavor profile. For a vegan alternative, you can use mushroom sauce, which provides great umami without any animal products.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any Chicken Chow Mein leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and taste!

For more tips on meal storage, check out this helpful guide.

Conclusion on Chicken Chow Mein

In conclusion, Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful one-pan meal that brings the essence of your favorite takeout straight to your kitchen. Loaded with flavor and fresh ingredients, it's perfect for busy weeknights. Give this recipe a try, and experience a taste you’ll crave again and again!