Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. This one-pan meal features tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and classic chow mein noodles all coated in a savory homemade chow mein sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This chicken chow mein can be made in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
  • One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze. Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
  • Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins, tailoring the dish to your family’s tastes.
  • Homemade Sauce: The best chow mein sauce is simple to make from scratch, ensuring fresh flavors without any preservatives.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch and store leftovers for delicious lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

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: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing room for stir-frying.
  • Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients for the chow mein sauce without making a mess.
  • Whisk: Helps blend sauces smoothly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Chow Mein

  • 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
  • 3 Tbsp oil
  • 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)
  • 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 the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, granulated sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Boil the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large wok or frying pan over medium heat. Add olive oil. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and cook them in the hot oil until golden brown on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pan, add julienned carrots, chopped cabbage, and pressed garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened and cabbage becomes translucent.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked chicken and noodles back into the pan with sautéed vegetables. Pour prepared sauce over everything and stir well. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Garnish your chow mein with chopped green onions before serving straight from the pan while piping hot! Enjoy your homemade Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce!

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Serving Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Add Color with Fresh Vegetables

  • Bell Peppers: Sliced bell peppers add crunch and color to your plate.
  • Snow Peas: Tossing in snow peas provides a fresh, sweet flavor that complements the chow mein.
  • Broccoli Florets: Steamed broccoli not only enhances nutrition but also adds a vibrant green touch.

Pair with a Refreshing Salad

  • Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing provides a crisp contrast.
  • Asian Slaw: A tangy Asian slaw brings a zesty kick and pairs beautifully with chicken chow mein.

Enhance Flavor with Condiments

  • Chili Oil: Drizzle some chili oil on top for an extra spicy kick.
  • Soy Sauce: Offer extra soy sauce on the side for those who love a salty flavor boost.

How to Perfect Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Achieving the perfect Chicken Chow Mein requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some ways to elevate your dish:

  • Bold seasoning: Use fresh garlic and ginger for an aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor.
  • High heat cooking: Stir-fry over high heat quickly to maintain the crunch of your vegetables while ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
  • Quality noodles: Choose authentic chow mein noodles for the best texture; they should be chewy and slightly crisp.
  • Balanced sauce: Adjust the sauce ingredients to achieve your preferred taste; don’t hesitate to add more oyster sauce for depth.
Chicken

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Completing your meal with complementary side dishes can elevate the dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that pair perfectly with Chicken Chow Mein.

  1. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat make for a classic Chinese appetizer.
  2. Steamed Dumplings: Soft steamed dumplings, either filled or plain, offer a delightful addition to your meal.
  3. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice makes a hearty side that complements chicken chow mein beautifully.
  4. Hot and Sour Soup: A bowl of hot and sour soup provides warmth and enhances the meal’s flavors.
  5. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, spring rolls are perfect for snacking alongside chow mein.
  6. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles give a refreshing contrast while still keeping within Asian cuisine themes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

  • Using the wrong noodles: Not all noodles work well in chow mein. Make sure to use chow mein noodles for the best texture and flavor.
  • Overcooking chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for golden brown pieces, then remove them from the pan to keep them juicy.
  • Skipping the sauce mixing step: Failing to combine the sauce ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor. Whisk everything together before adding it to your dish.
  • Crowding the pan: Overloading your pan can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing each ingredient enough space to cook properly.
  • Not using enough vegetables: Vegetables add flavor and nutrition. Don’t skimp on them; they’re essential for a balanced chow mein.
  • Ignoring seasoning: Taste your dish as you cook. Adjust seasonings like soy sauce or oyster sauce to suit your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Chicken chow mein can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

  • Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
  • This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Chicken

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything except the noodles ahead of time. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What type of chicken works best for Chicken Chow Mein?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal due to its quick cooking time and tenderness, but thighs can also add more flavor.

How do I customize my Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. For protein variations, consider shrimp or tofu.

Is Chicken Chow Mein healthy?

When made at home, Chicken Chow Mein can be a healthier option than takeout since you control the ingredients and portion sizes.

What goes well with Chicken Chow Mein?

Serve it alongside steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

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Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce


  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a quick and delicious way to enjoy your favorite takeout flavors at home. This one-pan dish features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked chow mein noodles, all tossed in a savory homemade sauce. In just 35 minutes, you can create a meal that’s not only satisfying but customizable to your tastes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe makes it easy to impress family and friends with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 12 oz chow mein noodles
  • 2 cups cabbage
  • 1 large carrot
  • 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
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chow mein sauce by whisking together oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sugar in a mixing bowl.
  2. Cook chow mein noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  3. Heat oil in a wok over medium heat; cook bite-sized chicken pieces until golden brown, then set aside.
  4. Sauté chopped cabbage, julienned carrots, and minced garlic in the same pan until softened.
  5. Combine cooked noodles and chicken with sautéed vegetables; pour sauce over everything and stir for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding your choice of vegetables or proteins like shrimp or tofu for variety. For meal prep, make extra and store leftovers for tasty lunches throughout the week.

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