Chicken Chow Mein Flavorful and Easy Home Meal

Name: Chicken Chow Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cups chow mein noodles (fresh or dried); 1 cup bean sprouts; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 piece bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 2 scallions chopped (for garnish); to taste salt and pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

by Sophia on February 27, 2025

Craving a quick, delicious meal? Look no further than Chicken Chow Mein! This dish brings together tender chicken, colorful veggies, and savory noodles, all in one tasty bowl. I’ll show you how to make this easy home meal step-by-step, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Ready to impress your family with your cooking skills? Let’s dive into the simple ingredients and techniques that will spice up your dinner tonight!

$- Chicken and Seasoning Ingredients - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Vegetables and Noodles - 2 cups chow mein noodles (fresh or dried) - 1 cup bean sprouts - 1 cup shredded carrots - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced - 1 small onion, thinly sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ginger, grated - Optional Garnishes - 2 scallions, chopped (for garnish) - Additional vegetables or herbs as desired Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. This will help you stay organized. The chicken adds protein and flavor. The sauces give it depth. The vegetables add crunch and color. Chow mein noodles create a base for the dish. You can customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. Cooking is about making it your own. Enjoy the process! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by slicing the chicken breasts thinly. Place them in a bowl. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well so the chicken is coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up the flavors. If you have dried chow mein noodles, cook them as the package says. Aim for al dente, which means they should be firm. Drain the noodles and set them aside. If you use fresh noodles, just toss them with a bit of oil to stop them from sticking. Heat a large wok or skillet. Add one tablespoon of vegetable oil and make it hot over high heat. Put the marinated chicken in the pan. Stir-fry it until it turns golden brown. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. When done, take the chicken out and set it aside. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Next, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry these for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp. Now, put the cooked chicken back into the pan. Add the bean sprouts and shredded carrots next. Toss everything together for another 2 minutes. This heats everything through nicely. Gently fold in the cooked chow mein noodles. Mix until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir-fry for an extra 2 to 3 minutes. This ensures all the flavors mix well. Finally, remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve hot and enjoy your meal! To make your Chicken Chow Mein pop, marinate the chicken well. Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Let the chicken soak for at least 15 minutes. This step helps develop rich flavors. You can also add a dash of pepper for extra taste. When cooking, use high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken. A good sear adds depth and color to your dish. Noodles are key in Chicken Chow Mein. If you use dried noodles, cook them just until they are al dente. This keeps them firm. Follow the package instructions carefully. Once cooked, drain and set aside. For fresh noodles, toss them with a little oil. This prevents sticking. If you want more flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce while cooking. Crunchy veggies make your Chow Mein exciting. To keep them crisp, stir-fry them quickly. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger to the hot pan. Cook for only 2-3 minutes. You want them tender but still vibrant. After adding bean sprouts and carrots, stir-fry for another 2 minutes. This will heat them up without losing their crunch. Remember, quick cooking is the secret! Pro Tips Marination Matters: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Veggie Crunch: To maintain the crispness of the vegetables, stir-fry them for just a few minutes until they are tender but still vibrant. Noodle Technique: If using dried noodles, ensure they are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when stir-frying. Garnish for Flavor: Don't skip the scallions! They add a fresh flavor and beautiful color to the finished dish. {{image_2}} To make a vegetarian chow mein, you can swap chicken for tofu. Use firm tofu for the best texture. Cut it into small cubes and marinate it in soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir-fry the tofu until golden brown. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for extra flavor. Chicken isn't the only choice. You can use shrimp, beef, or pork as well. For shrimp, choose medium-sized ones. Cook them until they turn pink and firm. For beef, use flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced. Marinate it just like the chicken. This way, you add variety to your meals. Want to boost the taste? Add some heat with crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also add freshness. If you like a richer flavor, toss in some shiitake mushrooms or a splash of hoisin sauce. These small changes make a big difference in taste. To keep your Chicken Chow Mein fresh, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This will help keep the flavors intact. When you are ready to eat, use the stove or microwave. For the stove, add a splash of water in a pan. Heat over low until warm. Stir often to prevent sticking. In the microwave, cover with a lid and heat in intervals of 30 seconds. Stir between each interval for even heating. You can freeze Chicken Chow Mein for later! Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. Chicken Chow Mein is a Chinese dish made with chicken, vegetables, and noodles. It is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. You stir-fry chicken and veggies, then add chow mein noodles. The dish often uses soy sauce and sesame oil for taste. You can serve it hot in bowls. Yes, you can use many vegetables for Chicken Chow Mein. Try broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms. Bell peppers and carrots add color and crunch, but feel free to mix in what you love. Use what’s fresh or what you have on hand. The dish will still taste great. To make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free, choose gluten-free soy sauce. Look for brands that are labeled as such. Also, use rice noodles instead of chow mein noodles. These swaps keep the dish tasty for those who avoid gluten. Always check labels to be sure. Common side dishes include spring rolls, dumplings, or fried rice. You can also serve a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. These sides complement the flavors of Chicken Chow Mein well. They make a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. This blog post covered how to make Chicken Chow Mein from scratch. You learned about the key ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips. We explored fun variations and storage ideas too. Chicken Chow Mein can be customized for any taste. It's a dish that suits everyone, using fresh flavors and quick cooking methods. With this guide, you can now create a delicious meal that friends and family will love. Enjoy making this tasty dish, and don’t forget to share your experience!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil infuses the chicken with a rich and savory flavor.
Colorful Veggies: With bell peppers, carrots, and bean sprouts, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Customizable: You can easily swap out the vegetables or protein to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

– Chicken and Seasoning Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Vegetables and Noodles

– 2 cups chow mein noodles (fresh or dried)

– 1 cup bean sprouts

– 1 cup shredded carrots

– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced

– 1 small onion, thinly sliced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

– Optional Garnishes

– 2 scallions, chopped (for garnish)

– Additional vegetables or herbs as desired

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. This will help you stay organized. The chicken adds protein and flavor. The sauces give it depth. The vegetables add crunch and color. Chow mein noodles create a base for the dish. You can customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. Cooking is about making it your own. Enjoy the process!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts thinly. Place them in a bowl. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well so the chicken is coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up the flavors.

Preparing the Noodles

If you have dried chow mein noodles, cook them as the package says. Aim for al dente, which means they should be firm. Drain the noodles and set them aside. If you use fresh noodles, just toss them with a bit of oil to stop them from sticking.

Stir-Frying the Chicken and Vegetables

Heat a large wok or skillet. Add one tablespoon of vegetable oil and make it hot over high heat. Put the marinated chicken in the pan. Stir-fry it until it turns golden brown. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. When done, take the chicken out and set it aside.

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Next, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry these for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp.

Combining All Ingredients

Now, put the cooked chicken back into the pan. Add the bean sprouts and shredded carrots next. Toss everything together for another 2 minutes. This heats everything through nicely.

Final Touches and Serving

Gently fold in the cooked chow mein noodles. Mix until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir-fry for an extra 2 to 3 minutes. This ensures all the flavors mix well. Finally, remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Chicken Chow Mein Flavors

To make your Chicken Chow Mein pop, marinate the chicken well. Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Let the chicken soak for at least 15 minutes. This step helps develop rich flavors. You can also add a dash of pepper for extra taste. When cooking, use high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken. A good sear adds depth and color to your dish.

Cooking Noodles to Perfection

Noodles are key in Chicken Chow Mein. If you use dried noodles, cook them just until they are al dente. This keeps them firm. Follow the package instructions carefully. Once cooked, drain and set aside. For fresh noodles, toss them with a little oil. This prevents sticking. If you want more flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce while cooking.

Ensuring Vegetables Retain Crunch

Crunchy veggies make your Chow Mein exciting. To keep them crisp, stir-fry them quickly. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger to the hot pan. Cook for only 2-3 minutes. You want them tender but still vibrant. After adding bean sprouts and carrots, stir-fry for another 2 minutes. This will heat them up without losing their crunch. Remember, quick cooking is the secret!

Pro Tips

Marination Matters: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
Veggie Crunch: To maintain the crispness of the vegetables, stir-fry them for just a few minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.
Noodle Technique: If using dried noodles, ensure they are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when stir-frying.
Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the scallions! They add a fresh flavor and beautiful color to the finished dish.

Variations

Vegetarian Chow Mein Substitute

To make a vegetarian chow mein, you can swap chicken for tofu. Use firm tofu for the best texture. Cut it into small cubes and marinate it in soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir-fry the tofu until golden brown. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for extra flavor.

Different Proteins for Chow Mein

Chicken isn’t the only choice. You can use shrimp, beef, or pork as well. For shrimp, choose medium-sized ones. Cook them until they turn pink and firm. For beef, use flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced. Marinate it just like the chicken. This way, you add variety to your meals.

Flavor Enhancements and Add-ins

Want to boost the taste? Add some heat with crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also add freshness. If you like a richer flavor, toss in some shiitake mushrooms or a splash of hoisin sauce. These small changes make a big difference in taste.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Chicken Chow Mein fresh, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This will help keep the flavors intact.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to eat, use the stove or microwave. For the stove, add a splash of water in a pan. Heat over low until warm. Stir often to prevent sticking. In the microwave, cover with a lid and heat in intervals of 30 seconds. Stir between each interval for even heating.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein

You can freeze Chicken Chow Mein for later! Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above.

FAQs

What is Chicken Chow Mein?

Chicken Chow Mein is a Chinese dish made with chicken, vegetables, and noodles. It is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. You stir-fry chicken and veggies, then add chow mein noodles. The dish often uses soy sauce and sesame oil for taste. You can serve it hot in bowls.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can use many vegetables for Chicken Chow Mein. Try broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms. Bell peppers and carrots add color and crunch, but feel free to mix in what you love. Use what’s fresh or what you have on hand. The dish will still taste great.

How do I make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free?

To make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free, choose gluten-free soy sauce. Look for brands that are labeled as such. Also, use rice noodles instead of chow mein noodles. These swaps keep the dish tasty for those who avoid gluten. Always check labels to be sure.

What are some common side dishes for Chicken Chow Mein?

Common side dishes include spring rolls, dumplings, or fried rice. You can also serve a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. These sides complement the flavors of Chicken Chow Mein well. They make a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

This blog post covered how to make Chicken Chow Mein from scratch. You learned about the key ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips. We explored fun variations and storage ideas too. Chicken Chow Mein can be customized for any taste. It’s a dish that suits everyone, using fresh flavors and quick cooking methods. With this guide, you can now create a delicious meal that friends and family will love. Enjoy making this tasty dish, and don’t forget to share your experienc

Chicken Chow Mein

A delicious stir-fried noodle dish with chicken and vegetables.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cups chow mein noodles (fresh or dried)
1 cup bean sprouts
1 cup shredded carrots
1 piece bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
2 scallions chopped (for garnish)
to taste salt and pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

Instructions

In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
If using dried chow mein noodles, cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using fresh noodles, simply toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking.
In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Add the cooked chicken back into the pan along with the bean sprouts and shredded carrots. Toss everything together for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Gently fold in the cooked chow mein noodles, mixing everything well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve hot in bowls.

Notes

Adjust the vegetables based on your preference.

Keyword chicken, noodles, stir-fry