Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

If you’re craving a quick, comforting dish packed with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than this sensational Chicken Chow Mein Recipe. It brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles all dressed in a savory sauce that hits just the right notes. This recipe captures the essence of classic Chinese takeout but elevates it with fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques. Once you try it, this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe will become one of your go-to meals for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe lies in its simplicity and harmony of ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in building the dish’s irresistible flavor, texture, and color balance.

• Chicken breast or thighs (6 oz): Thinly sliced for quick, tender cooking and juicy bites.
• Shaoxing wine (3 tablespoons): Adds a subtle depth and authentic aroma to the chicken and sauce.
• Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Helps to tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors.
• Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Provides a savory base for the sauce.
• Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings rich umami and a touch of sweetness.
• Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds salty depth; opt for a balanced light soy for best results.
• Sugar (2 teaspoons): Balances the savory and salty elements perfectly.
• White pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a gentle heat and aromatics; black pepper works too.
• Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with its unmistakable toasty fragrance.
• Peanut or vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Ideal for high-heat stir-frying with a neutral flavor.
• Shredded cabbage (4 cups): Adds crunch, mild sweetness, and a beautiful contrast in texture.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Finely chopped for an intense, aromatic punch.
• Ginger (1 tablespoon): Minced to provide warm, zesty undertones.
• Chow mein noodles (10 oz fresh or 6 oz dried): The star of the dish that soaks up all the sauce.
• Carrots (2 small, julienned): Bring vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
• Optional hot pepper (1 Anaheim or similar): Adds a hint of heat if you like a bit of a kick.
• Green onions (4): Cut into 2-inch pieces for fresh, crisp bites and a mild onion flavor.

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the thinly sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a medium bowl. Use your hands to mix everything well, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This simple marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with subtle flavor that will shine through after cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil. This sauce mixture is the perfect harmony of salty, sweet, and aromatic, and it will bring everything together beautifully once combined with the noodles and vegetables.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Boil your chow mein noodles according to package instructions but be sure to slightly undercook them—about one minute less than recommended—so they stay firm in the stir-fry. For fresh noodles, a quick dip in boiling water for about a minute is plenty. Drain well and set aside so they’re ready to soak up all the tasty sauce later.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Spread the chicken in the pan with minimal overlap to sear it properly. Cook for 30 to 45 seconds on one side until it starts to turn golden, then flip and cook for another 30 to 45 seconds until the chicken just loses its pink color. Remove and set aside. This quick sear locks in the juices for tender bites.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan along with the minced ginger and chopped garlic. Stir a few times until fragrant, which releases their irresistible aromas. Toss in the julienned carrots and shredded cabbage, cooking and stirring until the vegetables start to soften, about one minute. This keeps them pleasantly crisp and vibrant.

Step 6: Combine Noodles, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss gently with a pair of tongs to combine with the veggies. Return the chicken to the pan, then pour the sauce evenly over everything. Toss well to ensure every strand and morsel is coated with that luscious sauce, marrying all the flavors together perfectly.

Step 7: Final Touches

Throw in the sliced hot pepper if you’re using it along with the green onions. Toss everything together one last time until the sauce is fully absorbed and the ingredients are warmed through. Remove from heat, plate up, and get ready to enjoy your perfect Chicken Chow Mein Recipe!

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of fresh cilantro leaves can brighten up your Chicken Chow Mein Recipe with extra aroma and texture. Adding crushed peanuts or extra green onions on top adds an enjoyable crunch and pop of color that makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or light vegetable dumplings to round out the meal. A refreshing cucumber salad or quick pickled radishes complement the savory stir-fry with cool, crisp contrasts that balance the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Chicken Chow Mein in crispy edible noodle baskets or stuffed inside lettuce cups for a hands-on eating experience. You can also divide the dish into individual small bowls for a family-style gathering, encouraging everyone to customize with their favorite garnishes and chili sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Chicken Chow Mein Recipe to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. The noodles and vegetables absorb the sauce well, making for flavorful leftovers that reheat nicely without becoming soggy.

Freezing

While not ideal for long-term freezing due to the noodles’ texture, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable components separately in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. This lets you quick-thaw and toss with freshly cooked noodles whenever the craving hits again.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Chicken Chow Mein gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to warm everything evenly and revive the crispness of the vegetables. Avoid using a microwave if possible to maintain the dish’s delightful texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or tofu all make delicious alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked to perfection without overcooking the noodles or vegetables.

Are there substitutes for Shaoxing wine?

Yes, dry sherry is a great substitute, as noted in the recipe. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can replace it with chicken broth plus a splash of rice vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

How do I avoid soggy noodles in this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe?

Be sure to rinse the noodles well under cold water after cooking to stop them from overcooking and stick together, and drain them very thoroughly. Also, slightly undercook the noodles initially as they will cook further when stir-fried.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply swap the chicken for firm tofu or extra vegetables and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Use vegetarian-friendly oyster sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor.

What’s the best way to julienne the carrots quickly?

Peel the carrots, then slice them into thin planks before cutting those planks into thin strips. A mandoline slicer can help you achieve uniform, quick julienne cuts if you have one available.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Chow Mein Recipe is a delicious celebration of flavors and textures that comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Don’t hesitate to try it out soon—you’ll find it a delightful addition to your recipe collection that brings warmth and joy to any meal.

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