Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Description: A beloved classic, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe delivers the authentic flavors of your favorite takeout dish right in your own kitchen. Tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles are all tossed in a rich, savory sauce that’s bursting with umami. This recipe is quick, easy, and customizable, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

For the Chow Mein:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), thinly sliced against the grain
  • 8 ounces fresh or dried chow mein noodles (or substitute with thin spaghetti for a readily available option)
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage (about 1/4 of a medium head)
  • 1 cup julienned carrots (approximately 2 medium carrots)
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced, both white and green parts
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil, peanut oil)

For the Unforgettable Chow Mein Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (for a deep, savory flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (adds sweetness and complexity)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for that signature aromatic touch)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (balances the savory elements)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced is best)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water (mixed into a slurry to thicken the sauce)

Preparation:

  • Prepare the Noodles: If using dried chow mein noodles or spaghetti, cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with a teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Fresh chow mein noodles may only need a quick blanch in boiling water.

Instructions:

Step 1: Craft the Chow Mein Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and minced garlic. Ensure all ingredients are well combined. Set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth slurry. This will be used to thicken the sauce to a perfect, glossy consistency. Set this aside as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the thinly sliced chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a good sear. Season lightly with salt and white pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet, wok, or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Add the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced green onions. Sauté the vegetables over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are crisp-tender. You want them to retain some crunch.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked noodles and the cooked chicken back to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared chow mein sauce over the mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce and Serve

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Pour in the cornstarch slurry while continuously stirring. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Be careful not to overcook, as the sauce can become too thick. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Why You Will Love This Recipe:

This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

  • Authentic Takeout Flavor: This recipe captures the essence of classic takeout chow mein, with its savory sauce and perfectly cooked ingredients. It’s a satisfying and nostalgic dish.
  • Quick and Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. Add different vegetables, swap out the protein, or adjust the sauce to your liking.
  • Budget-Friendly: Made with readily available and affordable ingredients, this chow mein recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
  • One-Pan Meal: This recipe is primarily made in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash at the end of the meal.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve immediately while hot.
  • Garnish with extra sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
  • Serve with a side of steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
  • Pair with egg rolls, spring rolls, or potstickers for a complete takeout experience.
  • Add a drizzle of chili oil or sriracha for a touch of heat.

Tips:

  • Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy and unappetizing. Cook the noodles al dente and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  • Prepare the Sauce in Advance: Making the sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
  • Use High Heat: Cooking the chicken and vegetables over high heat helps them to brown quickly and retain their texture.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent the ingredients from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: Taste the sauce before adding it to the noodles and adjust the seasoning to your preferences. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, or chili oil for heat.
  • Add Veggies You Like: Add some bell peppers or snow peas for some crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)

  • Calories: 450-550
  • Protein: 30-40g
  • Sodium: 800-1000mg (Note: Sodium content can vary based on the type of soy sauce and oyster sauce used.)

Conclusion:

This Classic Chicken Chow Mein recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your takeout cravings without leaving the comfort of your home. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and customizable nature, this dish is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your wok, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen!

Five Questions and Answers About This Recipe:

Q1: Can I use different types of noodles for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! While chow mein noodles are traditional, you can easily substitute them with other types of noodles such as thin spaghetti, lo mein noodles, or even rice noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q2: I don’t have oyster sauce. Can I still make the recipe?

A: Yes, you can. Oyster sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of brown sugar. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this chow mein recipe?

A: Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli florets, or mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so that the vegetables are cooked through but still crisp-tender.

Q4: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Simply press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes and stir-fry it until golden brown. You may also want to use a vegetarian oyster sauce substitute.

Q5: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

A: While it’s best to serve chow mein fresh, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time. You can cook the noodles, chop the vegetables, and make the sauce in advance. Store everything separately in the refrigerator and then combine them when you’re ready to cook.

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