Chicken Chow Mein is a classic Chinese stir-fried noodle dish that’s packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and the most flavorful homemade Chow Mein sauce. This quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of chewy noodles, juicy chicken, and a perfectly balanced sweet-savory sauce makes this dish a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chow Mein:
- 8 oz chow mein noodles or thin egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- ½ cup bean sprouts (optional)
- ½ cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Best Chow Mein Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken)
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Chow Mein Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, sesame oil, white pepper, cornstarch, and chicken broth. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir in the garlic, cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the prepared Chow Mein sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together until fully coated in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or sriracha.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
- Extra Protein: Add shrimp or beef slices for a mix of flavors.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh chow mein noodles for an authentic chewy texture.
- Do not overcook the vegetables—they should remain crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with egg rolls or hot and sour soup for a complete meal.
- Serve with extra soy sauce or chili oil for extra flavor.
Tips
- Marinate the chicken in a little soy sauce and cornstarch for extra tenderness.
- Use a wok for the best stir-fry texture.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 12g
FAQs
Q: Can I use different noodles?
Yes, you can use spaghetti or rice noodles if chow mein noodles aren’t available.
Q: How do I prevent noodles from sticking?
Rinse them in cold water after cooking and toss with a little oil.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth.
Conclusion
Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a quick, flavorful meal that’s better than takeout. The perfect balance of textures and bold flavors makes it a must-try for any noodle lover. Enjoy a homemade, restaurant-style dish in the comfort of your kitchen!