Chicken Chow Mein
Dive into Deliciousness with Chicken Chow Mein
Chicken Chow Mein is not just another noodle dish; it’s a bustling street market experience captured in a bowl. It’s a family favorite that’s quick to make, packed with vibrant veggies, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re gearing up for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, this dish balances simplicity and satisfaction. I fondly remember my first attempt at making this recipe—it was a chaotic kitchen adventure, but the delicious aroma and colorful presentation made it all worthwhile. Here’s how you can bring that magic into your kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Reasons to Try It
You’ll love Chicken Chow Mein for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s a time-saver. This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The ingredients are budget-friendly, ensuring you don’t have to break the bank for an authentic Chinese meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable—tweak the veggies or spices to suit your taste or even dietary needs.
The next time you need a fuss-free recipe that can please a crowd (or just your family after a long day), look no further than Chicken Chow Mein.
"This Chicken Chow Mein is a game changer! It’s quick, tasty, and everyone at the dinner table loved it!"
Preparing Chicken Chow Mein
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating a delightful Chicken Chow Mein involves several straightforward steps. Begin by marinating your chicken to infuse it with flavor, then cook each ingredient to perfection in one pan. The beauty of this dish lies in its vibrant colors and textures, from crunchy veggies to chewy noodles. Here’s how to replicate that authentic taste at home with minimal fuss.
Key Ingredients
Gather These Items
To whip up this delectable dish, ensure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 450 g Egg Chow Mein Noodles
- ½ Carrot (sliced)
- ¼ Cabbage (sliced)
- 10 Shiitake Mushrooms (sliced)
- 5 stalks Celery (cut into thin strips)
- ½ Large Onion (sliced)
- 3 Green Onions (cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 4 Boneless, skinless Chicken Thighs (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 1.5 tablespoons Oyster Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Cornstarch
- Black Pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (for the sauce mix)
- 2.5 tablespoons Vegetarian Oyster Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 3 tablespoons Black Vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
Ingredient Notes
Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have. Bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy could work beautifully here. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or an assortment of your favorite vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Prepare It
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and marinate with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Set aside to soak in the flavors.
- Blanch the chow mein noodles in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then rinse under cold water, drain, and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, black vinegar, and black pepper to create your sauce.
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and drizzle in a generous amount of cooking oil. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Toss in the sliced onions and shiitake mushrooms, stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the carrots and celery, sauté for 1-2 minutes, followed by the sliced cabbage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until veggies are tender yet crisp.
- Incorporate the noodles, drizzle the prepared sauce over everything, and sauté on high heat for another 2-3 minutes to combine.
- Lastly, add the green onions and give everything a final sauté on high heat for 1 minute.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving Suggestions
To serve your Chicken Chow Mein, consider a vibrant presentation. Use a large, shallow bowl and pile in the noodles and veggies. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped cilantro can add an inviting finish. Pair it with a side of crispy spring rolls or a light cucumber salad for balance. Thankfully, Chicken Chow Mein is a versatile dish that shines on its own but also works beautifully with other Asian-inspired sides.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Chicken Chow Mein later. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick stir-fry in a hot pan helps retain the noodle texture, or you can gently microwave it in short bursts until warmed through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Tricks for Success
- Marinate for Flavor: The longer you let the chicken marinate, the more flavorful it will be.
- High Heat: Stir-frying on high heat at the end helps achieve that beautiful “wok hei” or breath of the wok flavor, giving your dish an authentic taste.
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy nights, chop and prep your vegetables beforehand and store them in the fridge.
Creative Twists
Recipe Variations
While this recipe calls for chicken thighs, feel free to experiment. You could swap in shrimp or beef for a different protein. Adding spicy elements like fresh chili or a splash of chili oil can elevate the heat. For a vegan take, consider using seitan or marinated tempeh in place of meat.
Your Questions Answered
Common Questions
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, any thin noodles work well—such as rice vermicelli or lo mein noodles.
How long does it take to make this dish?
You can whip up Chicken Chow Mein in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, it’s best to freeze the chicken chow mein without toppings. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Now that you have the scoop on preparing a delicious Chicken Chow Mein, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Enjoy this delightful dish and bring a taste of the streets of Asia right to your dinner table.
Chicken Chow Mein
Ingredients
Method
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and marinate with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Blanch the chow mein noodles in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then rinse under cold water, drain, and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, black vinegar, and black pepper to create your sauce.
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add cooking oil. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Toss in the sliced onions and shiitake mushrooms, stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the carrots and celery, sauté for 1-2 minutes, followed by the sliced cabbage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until veggies are tender yet crisp.
- Incorporate the noodles, drizzle the prepared sauce over everything, and sauté on high heat for another 2-3 minutes to combine.
- Lastly, add the green onions and give everything a final sauté on high heat for 1 minute.
