easy Chicken Chow Mein
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Introduction
Chicken Chow Mein isn’t just a dish; it’s a comforting favorite that transcends dining situations. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a casual dinner that brings the family together, this recipe shines brightly. What truly makes this chow mein special is its crispy noodles paired with golden-browned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavor-packed savory sauce that ties everything together. Picture yourself enjoying a delightful bowl that brings the taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant right into your home!
Reasons to try it
There are many reasons to give this Chicken Chow Mein a whirl. First off, it’s incredibly quick to make—perfect for those evenings when time is not on your side. This dish is also budget-friendly, utilizing basic pantry staples along with affordable fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters in your household!
Imagine a Friday night where the hustle and bustle of the week fades away, and you whip up this meal in under thirty minutes, instantly impressing your loved ones.
"This Chicken Chow Mein was the hit of our dinner night! I never expected it to be this easy and taste so close to what we get at our favorite takeout." — Jessica, satisfied home cook.
How this recipe comes together
Creating your own Chicken Chow Mein is a straightforward process that anyone can master. You’ll start by browning the chicken for that perfect texture and flavor, then quickly sauté crisp vegetables like cabbage and carrots. The crowning glory comes in the form of crispy chow mein noodles, which add that satisfying crunch. Finally, all elements come together in a savory sauce that will have your taste buds celebrating.
You’ll only need a few minutes of prep, and if you follow these steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
What you’ll need
To make this Chicken Chow Mein, gather these essentials:
- Protein: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Noodles: Chow mein noodles for that signature crunch
- Veggies: Cabbage, carrots, and green onions for freshness and texture
- Sauce: Soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a few seasonings to bring out the flavors
- Oil: For cooking and achieving that golden-brown color
Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version or swap out veggies based on your preference.
Step-by-step instructions
- Prep your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and chop the veggies. Have everything ready to go!
- Cook the noodles. Prepare the chow mein noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
- Brown the chicken. In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add veggies. Toss in the cabbage, carrots, and half the green onions. Stir-fry until the veggies are tender but still crisp, around 3-4 minutes.
- Combine. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, along with your savory sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated evenly.
- Final touches. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through. Sprinkle the remaining green onions on top for garnish before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Chicken Chow Mein can be as simple or as fancy as you like! For a casual vibe, serve it straight from the pan into bowls topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Consider pairing it with some spring rolls or a small side of fried rice for a complete feast. Add a side salad with a light dressing to balance the richness of the chow mein.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely because it’s so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through. For longer storage, you can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to cool the chow mein completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some pro tips to elevate your chow mein game:
- Always prep your ingredients before you start cooking; this helps in managing cook time and ensures even cooking.
- If you prefer extra crispy noodles, you can sauté them separately in a little oil until golden and add them on top when serving.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste—more soy sauce for saltiness, or add a hint of sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your chow mein! You might try swapping chicken for shrimp or beef. Sometimes, adding bell peppers or snap peas lends a pop of color and extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, toss in some chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha!
Your questions answered
1. How long does it take to make Chicken Chow Mein?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can save time; just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the dish.
3. Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes, as long as they were cooled and stored in an airtight container, they’re safe to freeze. Just be mindful of reheating them thoroughly.
Chicken Chow Mein
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and chop the veggies. Have everything ready to go!
- Prepare the chow mein noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the cabbage, carrots, and half the green onions. Stir-fry until the veggies are tender but still crisp, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, along with the savory sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated evenly.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through. Sprinkle the remaining green onions on top for garnish before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
