Chicken Chow Mein

Growing up, one of my favorite meals was always a steaming plate of Chicken Chow Mein. There was something magical about the combination of tender chicken and crispy vegetables, all coated in that savory sauce. I remember sitting at the dinner table, the aroma wafting through the air, and my mouth watering in anticipation. This dish became a family staple, and now, I want to share this easy and satisfying recipe with you. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, Chicken Chow Mein never fails to bring everyone together. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also warms your heart. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!

Shopping List for Chicken Chow Mein

When it comes to Chicken Chow Mein, the ingredients play a crucial role in crafting that perfect stir-fry. Each component brings its unique flavor and texture, working together to create a harmonious dish. From the tender chicken to the crisp vegetables, here’s what you’ll need for this delightful meal.

• 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – The star protein in this dish adds rich flavor and satisfying texture.
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda – This ingredient helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring every bite is succulent.
• 3 cups shredded green cabbage – Adds crunch and a lovely sweetness to balance the savory sauce.
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced ginger – A fragrant spice that enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic – Provides depth and aroma, making the dish more appealing.
• 3/4 cup julienned carrots – Brightens up the dish with color and a hint of sweetness.
• 3/4 cup thinly sliced celery – Adds a refreshing crunch and additional nutrients.
• 1/4 cup green onions – A fresh garnish that brings a mild onion flavor.
• 1-1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Essential for stir-frying and ensuring the ingredients don’t stick.
• 1 (6-ounce) package chow mein noodles – The perfect base for this dish, providing that signature texture.
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect consistency.
• 1-1/2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce – Brings umami flavor and richness to the dish.
• 1-1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness.
• 1/3 cup chicken stock or broth – Enhances the overall flavor with a savory base.
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar – Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil or plain – Adds a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – For seasoning and a little kick.

Step by Step Guide for Chicken Chow Mein

Cooking Chicken Chow Mein is not only fun but also rewarding. As you chop, stir, and sauté, the kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone rushing to the table. Follow these simple steps and enjoy the process of creating this classic dish!

1. Start by cutting the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. This allows for quick cooking and easy eating. Toss the chicken with baking soda in a small bowl. This step is essential as it helps tenderize the meat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15 minutes. The waiting time will be worth it when you bite into perfectly tender chicken!
2. After 15 minutes, take the chicken from the fridge, and place it in a fine mesh sieve. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any residual baking soda. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure it sears nicely. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it for the best texture.
3. Gather all your ingredients beforehand. Trust me, this makes the cooking process much smoother and faster. Finely shred the cabbage and coarsely mince the ginger and garlic. Prepare the carrots by peeling and julienning them into small, thin pieces. I like to cut them into rounds first and then matchsticks for variety.
4. Slice the celery very thinly and also chop the green onions, separating the white roots from the green tops. You should have about 1/4 cup of thinly sliced white roots ready to go. Set aside the green tops as a garnish for later.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and soy sauce until completely smooth. Then, stir in the oyster sauce, chicken stock, brown sugar, sesame oil, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined and set aside. This will be your sauce.
6. Follow the package directions to prepare the chow mein noodles. Rinse them in cold water and set aside. This step is crucial as it keeps the noodles from clumping together during cooking.
7. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Once hot, add the sliced white roots of the green onions. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant, then add the minced garlic and ginger. Be cautious here; cook just for about 20 seconds to prevent burning.
8. Once the garlic and ginger are aromatic, add the marinated chicken. Stir constantly for about 1 minute or until both sides are lightly browned. It’s important to keep the chicken moving to ensure even cooking.
9. Next, add the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced celery to the pan. Stir continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want the vegetables to be crisp on the outside while tender inside, with the cabbage perfectly wilted but not mushy.
10. At this point, add the cooked noodles and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Toss with tongs for about 1 minute, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated and the sauce thickens. Finally, add the green tops of the green onions and give it one last toss. Your Chicken Chow Mein is now ready to be served!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are numerous ways to adapt this Chicken Chow Mein recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Protein options: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef for different flavor profiles.
• Vegetable variety: Incorporate more veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
• Noodle alternatives: If you can’t find chow mein noodles, use rice noodles or even gluten-free noodles for a different twist.
• Spice it up: Add some chili flakes or sriracha for an extra kick if you enjoy heat.
• Low-sodium variations: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth for a healthier option while still enjoying great flavor.
• Vegan option: Replace chicken with marinated tofu and use plant-based sauces to make it vegan-friendly.
• Meal prep: Make a large batch and store portions in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.

Serving Options for Chicken Chow Mein

When it comes to serving Chicken Chow Mein, the options are plentiful. Here are some delicious ideas to make your meal even better:

• Serve hot: Enjoy the dish immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
• Pair with sides: Consider serving alongside steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
• Great for gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks; it’s easy to double or triple the recipe.
• Lunch leftovers: Perfect for next-day lunches, simply reheat and enjoy!
• Seasonal pairings: Perfect for any season; it goes well with light summer salads or warm winter soups.
• For special occasions: Great for celebrations like birthdays or casual get-togethers, making everyone feel satisfied.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and refrigerate in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein is truly a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors, colorful vegetables, and tender chicken, it’s a recipe you’ll cherish for years. I encourage you to try making this at home; it’s easier than you think! Gather your ingredients and enjoy the wonderful experience of cooking this delicious dish.

Chicken Chow Mein

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Chow Mein is a savory stir-fry loaded with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. This easy weeknight dinner is bursting with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whip it up in just 30 minutes and make your taste buds happy tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 pound chicken breasts or thighs
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced ginger
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 cup julienned carrots
• 3/4 cup thinly sliced celery
• 1/4 cup green onions
• 1-1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 (6-ounce) package chow mein noodles
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1-1/2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1-1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1/3 cup chicken stock or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar lightly packed
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil or plain
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Equipment

• Large pan

Method

 

1. Cut the chicken into small bite-size pieces. Place in a small bowl and toss with baking soda. Place in the fridge, covered, for 15 minutes. This will make the chicken super tender! After 15 minutes, place chicken in a fine mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels. This step is optional; you can simply chop the chicken and use it like that.
2. Have all the ingredients ready before beginning—cooking goes fast! Finely shred the cabbage, coarsely mince the ginger and garlic. Peel the carrot and then julienne into very small and thin pieces. I cut it into rounds and then matchsticks. Very thinly slice the celery. Thinly slice the green onions and separate the white root from the green. You should get about 1/4 cup thinly sliced white roots. Reserve the thinly sliced green part for later.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch and soy sauce with a fork until completely smooth. Stir in the oyster sauce, chicken stock, brown sugar, sesame oil, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Reserve for later.
4. Follow package directions to prepare the chow mein noodles. Rinse in cold water and set aside.
5. Heat vegetable oil over high heat in a large pan. Add the white roots of the onion for a minute or two and then the garlic and ginger. Only cook for about 20 seconds and be very careful to make sure they don’t burn. Add chicken and stir constantly for about 1 minute or until both sides are lightly browned.
6. Add shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and thinly sliced celery to the pan. Stir continuously for about 1–2 minutes, until the vegetables are crisp on the outside and tender inside, with the cabbage wilted. Then, stir in the cooked noodles and sauce mixture, tossing with tongs for 1 minute until the sauce thickens. Finally, add the thinly sliced tops of the green onions.

Notes

• Nutrition Note: The nutritional information includes chow mein noodles, but using a different type will affect the calculations.
• Storage: Let the chow mein cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3–4 days.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.