Name: Chicken Chow Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz chow mein stir-fry noodles; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; ½ cup water; 1 pound chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts (thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces); 2 teaspoons cornstarch; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; ¼ cup vegetable oil (divided); 3 cups green cabbage (thinly sliced); 2 stalks celery (very thinly sliced); 2 cups shredded carrots; 6 cloves scallions (dark and light green parts, cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Nothing beats a steaming plate of Chicken Chow Mein, where tender strips of chicken meet perfectly cooked stir-fry noodles and a medley of vibrant vegetables. This dish isn’t just a feast for the stomach; it’s a feast for the eyes, too! The allure of chow mein lies in its versatility and the delightful crunch of fresh veggies paired with the umami flavors from the sauces. Let’s dive into making this classic dish that’s bound to impress your family and friends.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Chicken Chow Mein is a beloved favorite for many reasons. First, it brings a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. The savory soy sauce and oyster sauce mingle beautifully with the juicy chicken and crisp vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture. Additionally, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Everyone can customize their serving with extra veggies or protein, ensuring that it appeals to a variety of palates.

What You’ll Need

To create this delicious Chicken Chow Mein, gather the following ingredients:

12 oz chow mein stir-fry noodles
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ cup water
1 pound chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts, thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces
2 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon + ¼ cup vegetable oil, divided
3 cups (8 oz) thinly sliced green cabbage
2 stalks celery, very thinly sliced
2 cups shredded carrots
6 scallions, dark and light green parts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced

Essential Tools for Success

Make sure you have these tools on hand for a seamless cooking experience:

Large skillet or wok – for stir-frying your ingredients evenly.
Spatula – to mix and toss the chow mein without breaking the noodles.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient proportions.
Cutting board and knife – to prepare your vegetables and chicken.

Step-by-Step: Chicken Chow Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Begin by cooking the chow mein stir-fry noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the sliced chicken with cornstarch, salt, and half of the soy sauce. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining ¼ cup of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic, followed by the sliced cabbage, celery, and shredded carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked chow mein noodles, remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and water. Toss everything together on high heat for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, toss in the scallions and give it one last stir. Serve your Chicken Chow Mein hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired. Enjoy!

Make It Your Way

This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is highly adaptable. Consider these variations to make it uniquely yours:

Add a variety of proteins such as shrimp, tofu, or beef.
Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bean sprouts.
Spice it up with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
For a gluten-free option, swap out the soy sauce for tamari and use gluten-free noodles.

Slip-Ups to Skip

Cooking can sometimes lead to mishaps. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the vegetables – aim for a vibrant color and crisp texture.
Not marinating the chicken long enough – give it time to absorb the flavors.
Using too much sauce – balance is key; adjust to your taste.
Not having all your ingredients prepped – stir-frying goes quickly, so prep ahead!

Storage Pro Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Chow Mein for up to 2 months.
To reheat, add a splash of water, cover, and microwave for even heating.
Avoid reheating more than once to maintain texture and flavor.

Quick Questions

Can I use other types of noodles instead of chow mein?

Absolutely! You can substitute with lo mein noodles, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar or hoisin sauce works as a great alternative.

Is Chicken Chow Mein suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and makes for a quick reheatable meal for busy days.

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth in place of water.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tools, tips, and tricks at your fingertips, it’s time to step into the kitchen and create your own Chicken Chow Mein masterpiece. With its vibrant colors, hearty ingredients, and satisfying flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Gather your loved ones and savor the comforting essence of this delicious stir-fry. Happy cooking!