Chicken Chow Mein Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein is a classic Chinese stir-fried noodle dish that has gained worldwide popularity due to its rich flavors, quick cooking time, and delightful combination of textures. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this dish features stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that ties everything together.
The appeal of Chicken Chow Mein lies in its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this easy step-by-step guide will help you prepare restaurant-quality Chicken Chow Mein at home.
Ingredients Needed for Chicken Chow Mein
Main Ingredients
To make the perfect Chicken Chow Mein, you’ll need the following main ingredients:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips for quick cooking.
- Chow Mein Noodles: Fresh or dried egg noodles that stir-fry well.
- Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts, and green onions for crunch and freshness.
- Garlic & Ginger: These two aromatic ingredients add depth to the dish.
- Oil: Sesame oil or vegetable oil for stir-frying.
Sauce Ingredients
- Soy Sauce (Light & Dark): Enhances the umami flavor.
- Oyster Sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth.
- Hoisin Sauce (Optional): For extra sweetness and tang.
- Sesame Oil: Gives an authentic nutty aroma.
- Cornstarch Slurry: Helps thicken the sauce and coat the noodles evenly.
- White Pepper & Chili Flakes (Optional): Adds a mild heat.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following kitchen tools:
- A Wok or Large Skillet: For high-heat stir-frying.
- Sharp Knife: To thinly slice chicken and vegetables.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating chicken and preparing the sauce.
- Tongs or Chopsticks: For tossing ingredients.
- Strainer: To drain noodles properly.
Preparing the Ingredients
Marinating the Chicken
To make the chicken tender and flavorful:
- In a bowl, mix thinly sliced chicken with:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This ensures the meat stays juicy while stir-frying.
Prepping the Noodles
- If using fresh Chow Mein noodles, rinse under hot water to separate them.
- If using dried noodles, boil according to package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes) and drain immediately.
- Toss with 1 teaspoon sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Chopping Vegetables
For uniform cooking:
- Slice bell peppers and carrots into thin strips.
- Shred cabbage finely.
- Mince garlic and ginger.
Cooking Chicken Chow Mein Step by Step
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok over high heat.
- Add marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
- In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Stir-fry garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
- Toss in the vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
Combining Everything Together
- Add the cooked noodles and chicken back into the wok.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything quickly to coat evenly.
- Stir-fry for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Pair with a side of spring rolls or hot and sour soup for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Chow Mein
- Use high heat for a true stir-fry effect.
- Don’t overcook the noodles to avoid mushiness.
- Cook ingredients in batches for even texture.
Variations of Chicken Chow Mein
- Spicy Version: Add chili paste or Szechuan peppercorns.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or shredded cabbage instead.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Chow Mein
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan with a splash of water to revive the texture.
Nutritional Value of Chicken Chow Mein
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-500 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 15g |
FAQs about Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
What ingredients do I need for Chicken Chow Mein?
To make Chicken Chow Mein, you’ll need chicken breast, chow mein noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, onion, carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage. Some recipes might also include bean sprouts, green onions, and oyster sauce for added flavor.
How long does it take to prepare and cook Chicken Chow Mein?
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10 minutes. Therefore, you can enjoy this dish in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Is Chicken Chow Mein healthy?
Chicken Chow Mein can be a healthy option if prepared with less oil and sodium. It includes protein-rich chicken and a variety of vegetables, making it a balanced meal. However, controlling portion sizes and sodium content is key to keeping it healthy.
Can I make Chicken Chow Mein vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or just increase the variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and broccoli. Ensure your sauces are vegetarian as well.
What’s the best way to cook the noodles for Chicken Chow Mein?
For the best texture, boil the noodles until they are al dente. Then, stir-fry them with a little oil until they start to get a bit crispy. This adds a delightful crunch that pairs well with the tender vegetables and chicken.
Can Chicken Chow Mein be made gluten-free?
Yes, to make gluten-free Chicken Chow Mein, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure that your noodles are gluten-free as well, such as those made from rice or other gluten-free grains.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, which helps maintain the texture of the noodles and vegetables.
This set of FAQs should help you prepare a delightful Chicken Chow Mein that fits your dietary needs while being quick and easy to make, ensuring it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
