Chicken Chow Mein

This Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and soft noodles enveloped in a savory sauce, this recipe brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your home. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this Chicken Chow Mein will surely be a hit. Its unique combination of textures and tastes makes it not only satisfying but also versatile enough to cater to various preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal any night of the week.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The blend of ginger, garlic, and sauces creates an irresistible flavor profile that elevates simple ingredients.
• Vegetable Packed: This dish is loaded with nutritious veggies, making it a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the chicken for another protein, keeping it fresh every time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here are some essential kitchen tools you’ll need for this Chicken Chow Mein.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Why These Tools Matter

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying, allowing you to cook everything evenly while retaining the crunch of the vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping vegetables and chicken efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing ingredients quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Tongs: Perfect for tossing noodles and veggies together without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

This Chicken Chow Mein is a Chinese dish loaded with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, soft noodles, and delicately spiced sauce.

• 6 oz of Chow Mein Noodles (prepared according to the package)
• 2 boneless (skinless) chicken breasts, sliced into 1/2 inch strips
• 2 TBSP vegetable oil
• 2 celery stalks
• 2 cups of thinly sliced green cabbage (for ease, buy a bag of angle haired sliced green cabbage)
• ½ cup carrots (matchstick; for ease, buy a small package of already cut up ones)
• 3 green onions (chopped and divided)
• 2 tsp minced ginger (for ease, buy a tube of fresh ginger paste in the refrigerated section with the fresh herbs)
• 3 tsp of minced garlic (for ease, buy a jar of minced garlic to have on hand)
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 1/2 TBSP oyster sauce
• 1/2 TBSP granulated sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and Pepper to taste

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preparing all your vegetables as needed. Season your sliced chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 TBSP vegetable oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once the oil is hot:
1. Add the seasoned chicken strips.
2. Stir-fry until slightly browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and place on a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Prepare your chow mein noodles according to package instructions:
1. Drain them well once cooked.
2. Set aside while you continue with the vegetables.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same wok:
1. Add another TBSP of vegetable oil.
2. Add celery and carrots; stir-fry for about 2–3 minutes.
3. Incorporate cabbage and two chopped green onions; cook until veggies are tender but still crunchy (about another 3–4 minutes).

Step 5: Create the Sauce

While your veggies are cooking:
1. In a small bowl, mix minced ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once your vegetables are ready:
1. Return cooked chicken and chow mein noodles back into the pan.
2. Pour your sauce mixture over everything.
3. Use tongs to toss until all ingredients are well coated in sauce and heated through.

Garnish with remaining green onions before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Chow Mein!

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein

Serving Chicken Chow Mein can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Cucumber Salad – A light and refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing complements the savory flavors of Chicken Chow Mein.
• Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil provides a delightful contrast in texture.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Chopped Peanuts – Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the dish.
• Fried Shallots – Crispy fried shallots can enhance the flavors and add a delightful crunch to each bite.

Serve with Rice

• Jasmine Rice – Fluffy jasmine rice is an excellent side, soaking up the rich sauce from the Chicken Chow Mein.
• Brown Rice – For a healthier option, serve it alongside brown rice for extra fiber and nutrients.

How to Perfect Chicken Chow Mein

To achieve the best Chicken Chow Mein, focus on fresh ingredients and proper cooking techniques. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh veggies not only taste better but also provide essential nutrients. Opt for crisp, colorful vegetables for a vibrant dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Cook chow mein noodles just until al dente. They should be firm enough to hold their shape and texture when mixed with other ingredients.
• High Heat Cooking – Use high heat while stir-frying to achieve that signature wok hei flavor. This technique helps in creating slightly charred edges on your chicken and veggies.
• Prepare Sauce in Advance – Combining all sauce ingredients beforehand saves time during cooking and ensures even distribution of flavors in your dish.
• Garnish Generously – Don’t skip garnishing! Fresh green onions or cilantro on top adds a pop of flavor and visual appeal.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or soy sauce according to your preference for a perfectly seasoned meal.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chow Mein

To round out your meal, consider serving some delightful side dishes alongside Chicken Chow Mein. Here are some tasty options to try.

1. Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make a great appetizer that complements the flavors of your main dish.
2. Egg Drop Soup – A warm bowl of egg drop soup adds a comforting element and pairs well with the textures of chow mein.
3. Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or bok choy is a healthy side that enhances the meal’s nutritional value without overpowering it.
4. Fried Rice – A side of fried rice offers another layer of flavor and variety, making it an excellent addition to your table setting.
5. Wontons – Savory wontons filled with chicken or vegetables provide a delightful bite-sized treat that guests will love.
6. Teriyaki Grilled Vegetables – Marinated grilled vegetables drizzled with teriyaki sauce deliver sweetness that balances nicely with savory chow mein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Chow Mein, it’s easy to overlook some key elements that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the prep: Not preparing your ingredients in advance can lead to overcooked vegetables or burnt chicken. Always have everything ready before you start cooking.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking chow mein noodles for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and rinse them after cooking to stop the cooking process.
• Using too much sauce: Excessive sauce can drown the flavors and create a soggy dish. Start with a small amount and add more gradually if needed.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip the salt and pepper step; they are essential!
• Not controlling heat: Cooking on too high of heat can burn your ingredients while leaving them undercooked inside. Maintain medium-high heat for even cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation buildup.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chow mein in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and stir-fry the chow mein until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Chow Mein?

Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese dish featuring stir-fried chicken, crunchy vegetables, and soft noodles tossed in a savory sauce.

Can I customize my Chicken Chow Mein?

Yes! You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or snap peas. You can also adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences.

How do I make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your chow mein noodles are made without wheat.

What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken Chow Mein?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain tender. You could also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.

Conclusion

This Chicken Chow Mein is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust it by adding more veggies or swapping out proteins according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to enjoy a delightful meal!