Chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the restaurant right to your home. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, providing a quick and satisfying meal packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and delectable chow mein noodles. With its homemade sauce that elevates every bite, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This chicken chow mein comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- One Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup for you after enjoying a delicious meal.
- Flavorful Sauce: The best chow mein sauce adds a rich and savory taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or proteins based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—perfect for lunch or dinner!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gathering your tools will streamline your efforts. Having everything ready makes the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok or large frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok or large frying pan: A wok allows for even cooking and easy tossing of ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Whisk: This tool helps combine sauce ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your chow mein sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
- 3 Tbsp oil
For the Noodles
- 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups cabbage
- 1 large carrot (julienned)
- 1/2 batch green onions
- 2 garlic cloves
For the Sauce
- 4 Tbsp oyster sauce (or added to taste)
- 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 Tbsp corn starch
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce
Step 1: Prepare Your Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, use a whisk to combine:
1. 4 Tbsp oyster sauce
2. 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
3. 3 Tbsp light sesame oil
4. 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
5. 1/2 cup chicken broth
6. 1 Tbsp corn starch
Set this mixture aside as it will be used later.
Step 2: Cook Your Noodles
Cook your noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked:
* Drain them thoroughly.
* Rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
* Set aside until needed.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large wok or pan over medium heat with olive oil. While heating:
1. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips.
2. Add them to the hot oil and cook until golden brown.
3. Remove the cooked chicken strips from the pan and set them aside.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pan:
1. Add julienned carrots, chopped cabbage, and pressed garlic.
2. Sauté for several minutes until veggies soften slightly and cabbage turns translucent.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken and noodles back into the pan:
1. Pour your prepared sauce over everything.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients and allow them to cook together for another two minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your chicken chow mein with chopped green onions before serving hot from the pan! Enjoy this dish straight away for maximum flavor!
How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce
Serving Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a delightful experience. You can enhance your meal by pairing it with various accompaniments that complement its flavors and textures.
Keep It Classic
- Chopsticks – Serve with chopsticks for an authentic Asian dining experience, allowing diners to enjoy the noodles fully.
- Green Onions – Sprinkle extra chopped green onions on top for added freshness and crunch.
Add Some Crunch
- Sesame Seeds – Toasted sesame seeds make a great topping, adding a nutty flavor and extra texture.
- Peanuts – Crushed peanuts can provide a delightful crunch and pair well with the sauce’s richness.
Pair with Refreshing Drinks
- Iced Green Tea – A chilled glass of iced green tea offers a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of chow mein.
- Lemonade – A zesty lemonade can brighten up your meal and cleanse your palate between bites.
How to Perfect Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce
Perfecting your Chicken Chow Mein is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish even further.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality chicken will enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Control the Heat – Cooking over medium-high heat ensures that everything cooks evenly without burning.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles – Undercook your noodles slightly, as they will continue to cook when mixed with other ingredients.
- Taste as You Go – Adjust seasoning during cooking, allowing you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Chow Mein can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat add a satisfying crunch alongside chow mein.
- Spring Rolls – Light and crispy, spring rolls are perfect for dipping in soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.
- Fried Rice – A classic side that complements chow mein perfectly, offering additional textures and flavors.
- Hot & Sour Soup – This spicy soup provides a warm start to your meal, balancing out the flavors of chow mein.
- Steamed Dumplings – Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables make for a delicious accompaniment.
- Asian Salad – A fresh salad tossed in sesame dressing adds brightness and freshness to balance the richness of chow mein.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it can become dry. To avoid this, cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside.
- Skipping the Sauce Preparation: Many skip making the sauce ahead of time. This can lead to uneven flavors. Always mix your sauce ingredients first to ensure everything is well combined.
- Not Using Fresh Vegetables: Using wilted or old vegetables can affect the dish’s taste and texture. Choose fresh cabbage and carrots for the best results.
- Cooking Noodles Improperly: Overcooked noodles can turn mushy. Follow package instructions closely and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking.
- Using High Sodium Sauces: High sodium sauces can overwhelm the dish. Opt for low sodium soy sauce to keep flavors balanced without being too salty.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Will stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chow mein in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce special?
This recipe features a homemade chow mein sauce that brings authentic flavors right into your kitchen, making it better than takeout options.
Can I customize my Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or even swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu.
How do I store leftovers of Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Is this Chicken Chow Mein healthy?
Yes! This recipe includes lean chicken and plenty of veggies, making it a nutritious option compared to traditional takeout.
Can I use different noodles for this recipe?
Yes! While chow mein noodles are traditional, you can also use rice noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti as alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is to make at home!
Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce
Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the authentic taste of your favorite restaurant right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this quick stir-fry features tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and chewy chow mein noodles all coated in a rich homemade sauce that elevates every bite. In just 35 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s customizable to your tastes. With minimal cleanup required thanks to one-pan cooking, this dish is bound to become a family favorite!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 12 oz chow mein noodles
- 2 cups cabbage
- 1 large carrot (julienned)
- 1/2 cup green onions
- 4 Tbsp oyster sauce
- 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp light sesame oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 Tbsp corn starch
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce by whisking together oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, corn starch, and sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
- Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water; set aside.
- Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium heat. Cut chicken into strips and cook until golden brown; remove from pan.
- In the same pan, sauté julienned carrots, chopped cabbage, and pressed garlic until softened.
- Return cooked chicken and noodles to the pan; pour prepared sauce over everything and stir well for an additional two minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Customize your dish by adding bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. For protein variations, feel free to use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
