Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

If you’re craving a delicious and easy-to-make Chinese dish, look no further than Chicken Chow Mein. This popular takeout favorite can be effortlessly recreated at home with a few simple ingredients and a standout chow mein sauce. Follow our step-by-step recipe to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

For the Chow Mein

• 200g chow mein noodles
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chow Mein Noodles

Begin by cooking the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them thoroughly and set aside. To prevent the noodles from sticking together, toss them with a teaspoon of oil.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, chicken broth, and sugar. Whisk until smooth and set aside. This combination of ingredients creates a sauce that is both savory and slightly sweet, making it the perfect complement to the stir-fried chicken and vegetables.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok or skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, along with the noodles and bean sprouts. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top. Serve your Chicken Chow Mein hot, straight from the pan. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chicken Chow Mein

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken.
2. Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, as stir-frying happens quickly.
3. High Heat: Stir-fry over high heat to achieve that perfect sear and to cook the ingredients quickly without making them soggy.
4. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like snow peas, mushrooms, or bok choy according to your preference.

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein with the best chow mein sauce is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seasoned noodles. It’s an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners or any time you’re in the mood for a satisfying and flavorful meal. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine right at home. Happy cooking!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken Chow Mein

Serving Tips

1. Serve Immediately: Chicken Chow Mein is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. The noodles and vegetables are at their peak of flavor and texture when they are hot and freshly cooked.
2. Accompaniments: Serve your Chicken Chow Mein with a side of steamed rice or fried rice for a more filling meal. You can also pair it with spring rolls or dumplings for a complete Chinese-inspired feast.
3. Garnishing: Enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing with extra chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
4. Serving Size: This recipe makes about 4 servings. Adjust the quantities according to the number of people you are serving.
5. Family Style: Serve the Chicken Chow Mein in a large dish family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves. This is especially great for gatherings and dinners with friends.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, Chicken Chow Mein can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
2. Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the chow mein to prevent it from drying out. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
3. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze Chicken Chow Mein. Place cooled chow mein in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
4. Defrosting: To defrost, transfer the frozen chow mein to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat as described above.
5. Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the noodles and vegetables, as they can become mushy. Heat just until warmed through to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Storing and Serving

• Portion Control: If you anticipate having leftovers, consider dividing the cooked chow mein into individual portions before storing. This makes it easier to reheat just the amount you need.
• Maintain Freshness: To keep vegetables crisp and fresh during storage, slightly undercook them initially. This way, they won’t become too soft when reheated.
• Label and Date: Always label and date your containers when storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer. This helps you keep track of how long the food has been stored and ensures you consume it while it’s still good.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade Chicken Chow Mein at its best, whether freshly cooked or as a convenient leftover meal. Happy cooking and savoring!

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken in this Chow Mein recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with various proteins. You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure your chosen protein is cooked thoroughly.

2. What kind of noodles should I use for Chow Mein?

Chow mein noodles are the best choice for this recipe as they are specifically designed for stir-frying. However, if you can’t find chow mein noodles, you can use thin egg noodles or even spaghetti as a substitute. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions and ensure they are drained and lightly coated with oil to prevent sticking.

3. Can I make the Chow Mein sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Chow Mein sauce ahead of time. Mix all the sauce ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Having the sauce ready in advance can save time and make the cooking process more efficient.

4. How can I make my Chow Mein spicier?

To add some heat to your Chicken Chow Mein, you can incorporate a few ingredients. Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the stir-fry along with the vegetables. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with hot sauce on the side, allowing everyone to adjust the spice level to their preference.

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