Chicken Chow Mein

Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese dish featuring stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, and an array of crisp vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful soy-based sauce. This recipe is quick, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of savory sauce, tender noodles, and crunchy vegetables makes this dish a family favorite.

What Is Chicken Chow Mein?

Chicken Chow Mein is a traditional Chinese stir-fried noodle dish made with soft egg noodles, chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. The dish is versatile, allowing for various vegetables and protein options. The noodles are stir-fried to create a slightly crispy texture, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and easy stir-fry:

• 8 oz egg noodles (or chow mein noodles)
• 2 chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1/2 cup bell peppers (sliced)
• 3 green onions (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a dish full of savory and slightly sweet flavors, with a balance of textures from the tender chicken, soft noodles, and crunchy vegetables.

Health Benefits of This Dish

Chicken Chow Mein provides a balanced meal with lean protein, healthy carbohydrates, and plenty of vegetables:

• Lean protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, helping to build and repair tissues.
• Fiber-rich veggies: Vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish.
• Noodles for energy: The noodles provide carbohydrates, which give the body energy.

For another quick and flavorful chicken dish, check out this Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine for a seafood alternative.

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein

Here’s how to make this quick and tasty dish:

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Boil the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked noodles. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are well-coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.

For another delicious stir-fry, try this Chicken Veggie Stir-Fry for a light and healthy option.

Variations of Chicken Chow Mein

Here are some fun ways to mix up the recipe:

1. Swap the protein: Use shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
2. Add mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms along with the vegetables for an earthy, umami flavor.
3. Spice it up: Add a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Best Occasions to Serve Chicken Chow Mein

Chicken Chow Mein is great for:

• Weeknight dinners: A quick and satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Meal prep: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.
• Family gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to scale up for larger portions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Chow Mein turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Overcooking the noodles: Cook the noodles just until tender to prevent them from becoming mushy.
2. Not using high heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve the slightly crispy texture of the noodles and vegetables.
3. Adding too much sauce: Use just enough sauce to coat the noodles and vegetables without making the dish too salty or soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Chow Mein

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-free.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Chicken Chow Mein is best served fresh, but it can be made ahead and reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein is a delicious and easy-to-make stir-fry that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and flavorful noodles. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is sure to satisfy. With its savory sauce and vibrant veggies, Chicken Chow Mein is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

For more easy and flavorful stir-fry options, check out this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry for a hearty and delicious alternative.