This Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your table. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this recipe features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and soft noodles all coated in a savory sauce. Its quick preparation and customizable ingredients make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavorful: The combination of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering blend that elevates the dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with colorful vegetables and lean chicken, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or protein to make it your own!
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the tasty noodles and colorful veggies, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Wok or large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
Why These Tools Matter
- Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying, allowing even heat distribution for perfectly cooked ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping veggies quick and efficient.
- Tongs: Perfect for tossing and mixing ingredients without breaking them apart.
Ingredients
This Chicken Chow Mein is a Chinese dish loaded with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, soft noodles, and delicately spiced sauce.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz of Chow Mein Noodles (prepared according to the package)
– 2 boneless (skinless) chicken breasts, sliced into 1/2 inch strips
– 2 TBSP vegetable oil
– 2 celery stalks
– 2 cups of thinly sliced green cabbage (for ease, buy a bag of angle haired sliced green cabbage)
– ½ cup carrots (matchstick; for ease, buy a small package of already cut up ones)
– 3 green onions (chopped and divided)
– 2 tsp minced ginger (for ease, buy a tube of fresh ginger paste in the refrigerated section with fresh herbs)
– 3 tsp minced garlic (for ease, buy a jar of minced garlic to have on hand)
– 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
– 1 1/2 TBSP oyster sauce
– 1/2 TBSP granulated sugar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and Pepper to taste
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season your chicken strips with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it is slightly browned. Once cooked, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to rest.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Prepare your chow mein noodles as per package instructions. After cooking, drain them well and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the matchstick carrots and sliced celery. Stir-fry for about 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add the green cabbage and two chopped green onions. Continue cooking until all vegetables are tender yet still slightly crunchy—about another 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
While your veggies are cooking, mix the minced ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, granulated sugar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
Step 5: Final Assembly
Add your cooked noodles and chicken back into the pan with the veggies. Pour your prepared sauce over everything. Using tongs, gently toss all ingredients until they are well combined and heated through. Garnish with the remaining chopped green onion before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Chow Mein!
How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein
Serving Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful experience. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle additional chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch.
- Sesame Seeds: Add toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro can enhance the flavor profile and add a vibrant color.
Pair with Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serve your Chicken Chow Mein alongside fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the sauce.
- Fried Rice: A side of vegetable fried rice can complement the flavors and create a satisfying meal.
Create a Platter
- Vegetable Platter: Offer an assortment of raw vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots for a refreshing contrast.
- Dipping Sauces: Include soy sauce or chili paste for those who enjoy an extra kick.
How to Perfect Chicken Chow Mein
Creating the perfect Chicken Chow Mein involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is restaurant-quality.
- Bold Flavors: Use fresh ginger and garlic for maximum flavor impact.
- Cook in Batches: If making a larger portion, cook chicken and veggies in batches to avoid steaming them.
- High Heat: Cook at high heat to achieve that desirable stir-fry texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Veggies: Keep vegetables crisp by cooking them just until tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; everyone has different preferences.
- Let Noodles Cool Slightly: Allow noodles to cool slightly after cooking to prevent clumping when combining with other ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chow Mein
To complete your meal, consider pairing your Chicken Chow Mein with these delicious side dishes. Each one adds its own unique touch to the dining experience.
- Egg Drop Soup: A light and flavorful soup that pairs well with the richness of chow mein.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy complement.
- Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame offers protein and can be enjoyed as a nutritious snack.
- Chinese Pickled Vegetables: These tangy pickles add a burst of flavor that balances out the dish’s richness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Wonton Soup: A warm bowl of wonton soup enhances the meal’s heartiness while maintaining a light feel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Chow Mein can be simple, but avoiding certain mistakes will enhance your dish.
- Using overcooked noodles: Overcooking the chow mein noodles can lead to a mushy texture. Make sure to follow the package instructions carefully.
- Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoning your chicken and vegetables can result in bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper for better taste.
- Overcrowding the pan: Putting too many ingredients in one pan can cause steaming rather than sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper cooking.
- Not prepping ingredients ahead of time: Failing to prepare your veggies and sauces beforehand can lead to chaos during cooking. Chop and measure everything before starting.
- Neglecting the sauce balance: Using too much or too little sauce can overpower or underwhelm your dish. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool down completely before storing.
Freezing Chicken Chow Mein
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Separate into portions for easy thawing.
Reheating Chicken Chow Mein
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry; stir frequently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Chow Mein?
Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese dish featuring stir-fried chicken with vegetables and noodles, all coated in a flavorful sauce.
Can I customize my Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety.
How do I make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free?
To make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that your chow mein noodles are also gluten-free.
Is Chicken Chow Mein healthy?
Chicken Chow Mein can be healthy if made with plenty of vegetables and lean protein. Adjust the oil and sauce amounts for a lighter version.
Conclusion
This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try today for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Chicken Chow Mein
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Discover the joy of cooking with this delightful Chicken Chow Mein, a quick and nutritious dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine. In just 25 minutes, you can prepare a mouthwatering meal featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and soft noodles all enveloped in a savory sauce. This versatile recipe allows for customization with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Kids will love the colorful presentation and delicious taste, while adults appreciate its healthy ingredients and quick preparation. Bring the restaurant experience to your home with this easy-to-make Chicken Chow Mein.
Ingredients
- 6 oz Chow Mein Noodles
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
- ½ cup matchstick carrots
- 3 green onions, chopped (divided)
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1½ tablespoons oyster sauce
- ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken strips with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until slightly browned. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Prepare chow mein noodles according to package instructions, drain well, and set aside.
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir-fry carrots and celery for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add cabbage and two chopped green onions; cook until veggies are tender yet still slightly crunchy (about another 3-4 minutes).
- Mix minced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
- Return cooked noodles and chicken to the pan with vegetables; pour sauce over everything. Gently toss to combine until heated through. Garnish with remaining green onion before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
