Chicken Chow Mein is one of those dishes that brings a burst of flavor and comfort to the table. I still remember the first time I tried a plate of this delectable stir-fried noodle dish in a cozy little Chinese restaurant, and the aroma alone was enough to transport me to food heaven. Perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful family meal, Chicken Chow Mein is not just quick to whip up; it also packs a satisfying punch of textures and tastes, making it a beloved favorite for both kids and adults alike.

What makes this recipe special

If you’re wondering why Chicken Chow Mein deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire, let me share a few compelling reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile and can easily accommodate a variety of ingredients, such as veggies or different proteins. Second, it’s budget-friendly, ensuring you can create a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family brunch, this dish fits perfectly. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making a dish that’s often thought of as takeout at home – it’s healthier and tastes so much better!

"This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is now a staple in our home! The flavors are spot-on, and it beats takeout any day!" – Happy Home Chef

How this recipe comes together

Creating Chicken Chow Mein is easy and straightforward, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The entire process consists of several simple steps: velvet the chicken for tenderness, pre-boil the chow mein noodles for the perfect chew, and whip up a savory sauce, all before frying everything together to ensure everything is coated in the delicious flavors. The visual appeal of vibrant vegetables with golden-brown noodles makes it a feast for the eyes too.

Gather these items

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

12 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
1½ tablespoons water
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine or dry cooking sherry
1 teaspoon neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
8 ounces fresh thin Hong-Kong-Style pan-fried noodles
1 tablespoon hot water
¼ teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
½ teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
2 teaspoons Shaoxing wine
⅛ teaspoon white pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, finely julienned
1 clove garlic, chopped
½ small carrot, julienned
⅔ cup fresh mushrooms or dried Shiitake mushrooms (soaked for 2 hours in hot water and sliced)
1 cup snap peas or snow peas
1 cup mung bean sprouts
2 scallions, finely julienned

Feel free to swap out or add ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available!

Step-by-step instructions

Now, let’s dive into making the Chicken Chow Mein:

Velvet the Chicken: Combine the chicken slices with water, oyster sauce, cornstarch, Shaoxing wine, and a teaspoon of neutral oil. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step will give your chicken a deliciously tender texture.
Pre-boil the Chow Mein Noodles: Cook the Hong Kong-style noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce Mixture: In a bowl, mix hot water, sugar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, white pepper, and salt. This sauce will add a rich flavor profile to the dish.
Fry the Noodles: In a large pan or wok, heat 4 tablespoons of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cooked noodles and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to get some color and slightly crispy edges. Remove and set aside.
Sear the Chicken: In the same pan, add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned.
Finish the Dish: To the pan with chicken, add ginger, garlic, carrot, mushrooms, snap peas, and bean sprouts. Stir-fry together for 2-3 minutes. Finally, return the fried noodles to the pan and pour in the sauce mixture. Mix everything well and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Best ways to enjoy it

You can serve Chicken Chow Mein fresh from the pan, garnished with the julienned scallions for that extra bit of crunch. For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with some crispy spring rolls or steamed dumplings. A side of your favorite dumpling sauce or hot chili oil can also elevate the dish even further.

Keeping leftovers fresh

To store your leftover Chicken Chow Mein, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to use a stir-fry pan or microwave, adding a little water to maintain moisture.

Helpful cooking tips

Velveting the chicken not only improves the texture but also keeps it moist during cooking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try marinating it in a bit of soy sauce for added flavor.
To add extra crunch, include toasted sliced almonds or cashews just before serving.
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting; stir-frying happens quickly!

Creative twists

Feel free to customize your Chicken Chow Mein! For a vegetarian alternative, swap the chicken for tofu and add extra seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy. Craving some heat? Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of sriracha into the mix. You can also try using whole wheat noodles or quinoa noodles for a healthier spin.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare?
Expect about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.
Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just ensure it’s well-packed to avoid freezer burn.
What if I can’t find Shaoxing wine?
If this ingredient is hard to find, dry sherry or even a splash of white wine can act as decent substitutes.

Chicken Chow Mein is one of those classic dishes that encourage culinary creativity while offering a comforting, satisfying meal. Your family will love it, and you might just find it becoming a regular request at your dinner table!