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 garlic cloves; 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

If you're craving a delicious, satisfying meal that's both quick and easy to prepare, look no further than chicken chow mein. This classic dish is not only a favorite at takeout spots but also incredibly simple to make at home. In fact, homemade chicken chow mein can be a game-changer for your weeknight dinners!

Why Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Beats Takeout

Making chicken chow mein from scratch gives you the opportunity to customize your dish with your favorite ingredients. You control the quality and quantity of everything that goes into it, so you can easily swap in fresh vegetables or protein alternatives like chicken ham or even Turkey bacon for a different twist. Also, you'll save money compared to takeout!

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about cooking at home. You can experiment with flavors and make the sauce just the way you like it, which is often difficult to achieve from restaurant versions. Plus, with the right technique, you can have a one-pan meal ready in about 35 minutes.

So why not gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try? You'll soon find that making chicken chow mein at home isn’t just a healthier option; it’s a fun cooking adventure that leads to a delicious meal! Check out our full recipe for the best chow mein sauce!

Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

When it comes to whipping up a delicious Chicken Chow Mein, getting the right ingredients is key. Below is a handy list to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and texture!

Essential Ingredients for the Main Dish

1 lb chicken breast: Make sure it’s boneless and skinless for the best results.
3 tablespoon oil: Olive oil or any neutral oil will work perfectly here.
12 oz chow mein noodles: Use uncooked noodles for that authentic chewiness.
2 cups cabbage: This adds a delightful crunch.
1 large carrot: Julienned to bring a touch of sweetness.
½ batch green onions: For garnish and a hint of freshness.
2 garlic cloves: Minced for an aromatic boost.

Want to learn more about fresh vegetables and their benefits? Check out this resource on nutrient-rich veggies.

Ingredients for the Chow Mein Sauce

4 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adjust according to your taste preferences.
3 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce: Keeping it lighter in sodium can enhance health.
3 tablespoon light sesame oil: Use un-toasted to keep flavors balanced.
½ cup chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, it adds rich depth.
1 tablespoon corn starch: This helps thicken your sauce beautifully.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the savory notes.

Including these ingredients will set you up for a chicken chow mein that’s vibrant and satisfying! Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the instructions!

Step-by-step Preparation of Chicken Chow Mein

Making chicken chow mein from scratch is not only rewarding, but it also allows you to customize flavors and ingredients to your liking. Follow these simple steps for a delicious one-pan meal that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Prep your ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, start by gathering and prepping your ingredients for this delightful dish. You'll need:

Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized strips.
Noodles: 12 oz chow mein noodles, uncooked.
Veggies: 2 cups of shredded cabbage, 1 large carrot julienned, and ½ batch of green onions, sliced.
Aromatics: 2 garlic cloves, minced.

Chop everything ahead of time, so when it's time to cook, you’re not scrambling. This not only makes the process smooth but also enjoyable!

Make the chow mein sauce

In a small bowl, mix the ingredients for the chow mein sauce. Combine:

4 tablespoon oyster sauce (adjust viscosity and flavor according to your taste)
3 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoon light sesame oil
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon corn starch
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Whisk together thoroughly until the cornstarch is dissolved, and set this flavorful concoction aside. This sauce is the heart of your stir-fry!

Cook your chow mein noodles

Now, follow the package instructions to cook your chow mein noodles. Typically, you'll boil them for about 5-7 minutes until they're just tender. After draining, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking, and keep them separate to prevent sticking. This step is crucial; no one likes gummy noodles!

Sauté the chicken

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add in your strips of chicken and cook until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside; we’ll be adding it back in later.

Add the veggies

In that same pan, toss in the minced garlic, cabbage, and julienned carrots. Sauté your veggies for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly and the cabbage becomes translucent. The key here is to leave some crunch for texture in your chicken chow mein.

Combine everything and add the sauce

Once your veggies are looking vibrant, return the chicken and cooked noodles to the pan. Pour the prepared chow mein sauce over the mixture, tossing everything to combine. Let it cook together for an additional 2 minutes, allowing those flavors to marry beautifully.

Garnish and serve

Finally, don’t skimp on the garnishing! Top your chicken chow mein with sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot directly from the pan, and watch your loved ones dig in—it’s sure to be a hit!

Feeling adventurous? You can explore variations by adding more protein like shrimp or tofu or different vegetables based on your preferences! Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade chicken chow mein, and relish every bite.

Variations of Chicken Chow Mein

Vegetarian Chicken Chow Mein

If you’re looking to enjoy a chicken chow mein without the meat, try a vegetarian version! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Add a variety of veggies such as bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms for a colorful and nutritious meal. Toss in some soy sauce and hoisin for extra flavor, and don’t forget to sneak in some garlic for that aromatic touch!

Explore more vegetarian recipes.

Spicy Chicken Chow Mein with Chili

For those who enjoy a kick, spicy chicken chow mein is the way to go! Add fresh chili peppers or a splash of chili oil to the classic chow mein sauce for a fiery twist. You could even experiment with sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to ignite those taste buds. This version proves that a little spice can elevate your dish to new heights!

Check out these spicy cooking tips.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Chow Mein

Tips for Perfect Noodles

For the perfect noodles, always cook your chow mein noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse them with cold water. This helps to stop the cooking process and prevents them from getting mushy. If they’re too sticky, a splash of oil can help keep them separate. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a gloppy bowl of chow mein!

Notes on Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to get creative! If you're missing some ingredients, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian chow mein. Don’t have cabbage? Sliced bell peppers or even broccoli are great alternatives. For the sauce, if you’re short on oyster sauce, hoisin sauce adds a nice sweetness. Remember, cooking should be fun, so modify as you go!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Chow Mein

Pair it with a side salad

Elevate your Chicken Chow Mein experience by serving it with a vibrant side salad. A simple mix of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of your chow mein. Not only does this addition make your meal more visually appealing, but it also adds a nice balance of textures and nutrients. For added crunch, toss in some sliced almonds or sesame seeds.

Serving with homemade spring rolls

What’s better than a steaming plate of Chicken Chow Mein? Pairing it with homemade spring rolls! These crispy delights are easy to make and a wonderful complement to your main dish. You can fill them with fresh veggies like carrots and cucumber, wrapped in rice paper for a light, flavorful bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding shrimp or tofu for variety. This duo will surely impress your guests! For a dipping sauce, consider a mix of sweet chili sauce and soy sauce to tie in the flavors beautifully.

Time Breakdown for Chicken Chow Mein

Preparation time
Getting ready for your delicious chicken chow mein is easy and swift! You’ll want about 15 minutes to prep all your ingredients. This includes cutting your chicken and veggies, and whisking together that mouthwatering chow mein sauce.

Cooking time
Once you’re prepped, the cooking is a breeze! It will take approximately 20 minutes to bring your chicken chow mein to life in just one pan. Talk about a quick weeknight dinner!

Total time
Put it all together, and your total time for making this flavorful dish will be about 35 minutes. That’s right—just over half an hour until you’re enjoying a homemade meal that beats takeout!

For an extra kick, consider pairing your chow mein with a refreshing Asian-style salad. Dive into our recipe and savor all the flavors! For further information on the potential health benefits of ingredients like cabbage and chicken, you might want to check out this nutrition resource.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Chow Mein

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken chow mein contains approximately 340 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable option for dinner.

Protein content

Packed with lean chicken breast, this dish offers about 30 grams of protein per serving. It's a fantastic choice for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a flavorful meal.

Sodium levels

Sodium levels in chicken chow mein can vary based on your choice of sauces, but generally, it contains around 600 mg of sodium per serving. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce can help keep this number in check while still delivering on taste.

For more detailed nutritional information, you can check resources like NutritionData or MyFitnessPal. Enjoy your cooking journey with this homemade delight!

FAQs about Chicken Chow Mein

Can I meal prep chicken chow mein?

Absolutely! Chicken chow mein is a fantastic choice for meal prep. You can prepare it in large batches and store individual portions in airtight containers. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you're ready for a quick and delicious meal during your busy week.

How do I store leftover chicken chow mein?

To store leftover chicken chow mein, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label your containers, so you know what's inside!

Can I use other sauces for added flavor?

Of course! While the homemade chow mein sauce is delicious on its own, you can definitely experiment with other sauces. Consider adding some hoisin sauce or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to balance flavors. For more inspiration, check out this guide on sauce variations for stir-fry dishes!

Conclusion on Chicken Chow Mein

Making chicken chow mein at home isn't just convenient; it's a rewarding experience! You can customize the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Plus, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing your favorite takeout flavor right to your kitchen table. Give it a try!

Why You Should Try Making Chicken Chow Mein at Home

If you’re a fan of delicious, quick meals, making chicken chow mein at home is a game changer. Here are a few reasons you should give it a shot:

Control Over Ingredients: When you cook at home, you can choose fresh, high-quality ingredients and customize the dish to your liking. Want more veggies? Go for it! Prefer more sauce? Adjust it!
Healthier Option: Homemade versions are often healthier than takeout, as you can control the amount of oil and sodium in your dish. It’s a way to enjoy your favorites without compromising on health.
Cost-Effective: Cooking at home can be significantly more affordable than frequent takeout. With this recipe, you’ll make 8 servings, ideal for meal prep or sharing with friends!
Enjoyment of Cooking: There’s something satisfying about cooking for yourself or loved ones. It can be a fun activity that encourages creativity in the kitchen.

Ready to dive into the delicious world of chicken chow mein? Grab those ingredients and enjoy this simple yet fulfilling dish! For more ideas, check out these tips on meal prep and homemade sauces for other favorite dishes here.

Happy cooking!