As the sun dipped below the horizon and the scent of takeout filled the air, I realized I had no plans for dinner. With a busy week behind me, I craved something comforting yet quick to prepare. That’s when the thought of Chicken Chow Mein danced into my mind—a savory, one-pot stir fry that captures the essence of takeout but is so simple to make at home. In just 20 minutes, I could whip up a flavorful meal packed with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all enveloped in a glossy sauce that sings of umami goodness.
The beauty of this dish is its versatility: you can choose between fresh ingredients or store-bought convenience. Plus, it’s family-friendly and can easily accommodate gluten-free diets. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply find solace after a long day, this Chicken Chow Mein is the answer to your cravings, promising a satisfying dinner without the fuss. Let’s dive into the aromatic world of this quick and easy recipe!
Why is Chicken Chow Mein a must-try?
Quick preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can serve up a hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
One-pot wonder: Less clean-up and all the fantastic flavors combined in one dish!
Versatile ingredients: Customize with fresh veggies or pantry staples as you like.
Family-friendly: Appeals to all ages, making it an instant mealtime favorite.
Health-conscious option: Offers a healthier take on takeout, with the ability to make it gluten-free.
Flavor-packed: Rich umami and textures that rival your favorite Chinese restaurants!
Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Cornflour – Thickener for the sauce; ensure not to form lumps when mixing by starting with a small amount of liquid.
• Soft dark brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; alternatively, use light brown sugar for a milder flavor.
• Garlic cloves – Provides aromatic flavor; crush before adding to the sauce mix.
• Dark soy sauce – Contributes umami flavor and color; consider using reduced sodium soy sauce if desired.
• Oyster sauce – Adds richness and saltiness; for a vegetarian version, opt for mushroom sauce.
• Chicken stock – Base for the sauce; use a cube for convenience, or homemade for better flavor.
For Stir-Frying
• Sunflower oil – Cooking fat for stir-frying; vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
• Chicken breast – Main protein source; substitute with beef, pork, or tofu for variations.
• Chinese 5 spice – Seasoning that enhances flavor; use less if sensitive to strong flavors.
For the Vegetables & Noodles
• Stir fry veg bag (pre-prepped) – Vegetables for convenience; alternatively, use fresh diced vegetables like carrots, peppers, and bean sprouts.
• Dry noodles – Base for the dish; dried egg noodles or straight-to-wok noodles can be used.
You’re just moments away from creating your very own Chicken Chow Mein, a delightful one-pot meal that ensures a satisfying dinner for the whole family!
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
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Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine cornflour, soft dark brown sugar, crushed garlic, and dark soy sauce. Stir until smooth, then whisk in the oyster sauce and chicken stock. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
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Soak the noodles: Place your dry noodles in a bowl of boiling water. Allow them to soak for about 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside for later use.
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Heat the oil: In a large frying pan or wok, heat sunflower oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breast seasoned with Chinese 5 spice. Stir-fry for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
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Add vegetables: Toss in your stir-fry veg bag or diced fresh vegetables. Continue to stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant in color.
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Combine with sauce: Drain the soaked noodles and add them to the pan. Pour the chicken stock mixture over everything and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and veggies.
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Toss and garnish: Gently toss the noodles, chicken, and vegetables together until well combined. If desired, garnish with chopped spring onions for a fresh touch.
Optional: For a spicy kick, serve with chili sauce on the side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?
Enhance your dining experience with these delightful pairings that complement the bold flavors of your chow mein beautifully.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Their crunchy texture and savory filling make them an excellent appetizer to kick off your meal.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The aromatic fragrance and softness of jasmine rice absorb the flavors, offering a simple yet effective pairing to balance the dish.
Indulge in this combination for a complete experience!
- Egg Drop Soup: This light, flavorful soup provides a warm contrast to your hearty chow mein, making it a comforting addition to your table.
- Garlic Broccoli: The vibrant green of steamed garlic broccoli not only adds color but also brings a fresh crunch that beautifully complements the tender noodles.
Elevate your meal with this healthy side!
- Chili Garlic Sauce: A zesty drizzle adds spice and depth, enhancing the overall experience of your chow mein for those who crave a kick!
- Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and calming—this drink beautifully cleanses your palate, allowing each bite of chow mein to shine.
Perfect for winding down after a busy day!
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing sorbet provides a light, fruity finish to cleanse your palate after the savory main course.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chow Mein
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: You can freeze Chicken Chow Mein for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw frozen Chicken Chow Mein overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick.
Room Temperature: If serving leftovers, do not let Chicken Chow Mein sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them in airtight containers to maintain freshness and flavor. Additionally, you can soak the noodles and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to serve, simply stir-fry the chicken, add the prepped veggies and sauce, and toss in the noodles for a quick finish. This way, you’ll have a delightful homemade Chicken Chow Mein ready in no time, ensuring a satisfying dinner with minimal fuss after a busy day!
Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
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Prep Ingredients First: Ensure all vegetables and ingredients are prepped and ready to go before starting. This keeps the cooking process smooth and quick.
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Avoid Overcooking: Don’t overcook the chicken; stir-fry until just cooked through. Overcooked chicken can turn rubbery, ruining your Chicken Chow Mein.
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Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce mixture according to your flavor preferences. Extra soy sauce or garlic can amp up the umami if desired.
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Use a Large Wok: Cooking in a spacious wok allows for even heat distribution and better stir-frying. It prevents overcrowding, leading to perfectly cooked ingredients.
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Noodle Choice Matters: Choose the right noodles for your dish. Dried egg noodles provide great texture, while straight-to-wok noodles save even more time—just be sure to follow cooking instructions!
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Feel Free to Experiment: Chicken Chow Mein is versatile! Don’t hesitate to substitute proteins or add different vegetables for your own unique twist.
Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful dish to suit your tastes!
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Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein experience. Each option brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish that your family will love.
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Vegetable Medley: Use fresh veggies like broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or zucchini. The vibrant colors and textures will bring your chow mein to life, making every bite visually appealing and packed with crunch.
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Gluten-Free Option: Opt for gluten-free noodles and tamari-style soy sauce. This ensures everyone can enjoy the flavors of Chicken Chow Mein without compromise.
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Flavor Boost: Replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a sweeter, more complex flavor profile. This small change can create a delightful twist that surprises your palate!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh chilies or a dash of chili oil for a fiery touch. A little heat elevates the entire dish and adds that extra zing to your mealtime.
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Herbal Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving. They lend a fresh, aromatic note that brightens up the rich flavors of the chow mein.
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Crunchy Toppers: Garnish with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture. These toppings not only enhance the presentation but also offer a satisfying crunch.
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Sauce Variations: Experiment with adding a tablespoon of rice vinegar or a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy twist. This brightens the dish and balances out the richness beautifully.
Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles work best for Chicken Chow Mein?
Dried egg noodles are popular for their texture and flavor. However, straight-to-wok noodles are an excellent time-saving alternative. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure they maintain their perfect bite!
How do I select ripe vegetables for my Chicken Chow Mein?
Look for vibrant colors and firmness! Vegetables like bell peppers and carrots should be crisp without any dark spots or bruising. If you’re using a pre-prepped stir-fry veg bag, check the expiration date to ensure freshness!
How should I store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish is cooled completely before sealing, as this helps prevent condensation that can make the noodles soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat thoroughly, adding a splash of water to the pan to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Chow Mein for up to 3 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
What should I do if my sauce turns lumpy?
To avoid lumps, always mix your cornflour with a small amount of liquid before adding it to the entire sauce mix. If lumps occur during preparation, simply use an immersion blender to smooth out the sauce or strain it through a fine sieve before adding it to the pan.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it can be! Use gluten-free noodles and tamari-style soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Be sure to double-check the oyster sauce for gluten ingredients or substitute it with a mushroom sauce for a delightful vegetarian option.
Savory Chicken Chow Mein Ready in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine cornflour, soft dark brown sugar, crushed garlic, and dark soy sauce. Stir until smooth, then whisk in the oyster sauce and chicken stock. Set aside.
- Soak the noodles: Place dry noodles in a bowl of boiling water for 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain.
- Heat the oil: In a large frying pan or wok, heat sunflower oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breast seasoned with Chinese 5 spice. Stir-fry for 6-7 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Toss in your stir-fry veg bag or diced fresh vegetables. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender.
- Combine with sauce: Drain the soaked noodles and add them to the pan. Pour the chicken stock mixture over everything and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Toss and garnish: Gently toss everything together until well combined. Optional: garnish with chopped spring onions.