There’s something truly delightful about the way a stir-fry comes together, especially when it involves tender chicken and silky noodles. Picture this: the savory aroma of Garlic mingling with vibrant vegetables filling your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. That’s exactly the experience you’ll get with my quick and easy Chicken Chow Mein. In under 30 minutes, you can delight in a colorful dish that hits all the right notes—comforting, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or looking to impress friends with a home-cooked meal, this authentic Chinese favorite is the answer.
What I love most about Chicken Chow Mein is its flexibility. Swap the chicken for prawns, beef, or tofu, and toss in whatever vegetables you have on hand. The result? A deliciously customized meal that works for any palate. So, grab your wok and join me in creating this delectable masterpiece that will leave everyone craving seconds!
Why is Chicken Chow Mein a Must-Try?
Simplicity, this quick meal is incredibly easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from prep to plate.
Versatility, customize with proteins like prawns, beef, or tofu, and use any veggies available for a personal touch.
Flavor-packed, the blend of garlic, soy sauce, and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible medley that tantalizes your taste buds.
Crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this vibrant, comforting dish.
Healthy Option, load up on fresh vegetables for a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
For more delightful ideas, check out our guide on making Asian-inspired meals at home.
Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
For the Noodles
- Dried Egg Noodles – These form the base; feel free to use fresh noodles for a different texture.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Chicken Breast/Thigh – This is your main protein source; you can easily swap it for prawns, beef, or tofu depending on your preference.
- Cornstarch – Used in the marinade to keep the chicken tender.
- Baking Soda – Helps in tenderizing the chicken further for a juicy bite.
For the Vegetables
- Onion – Adds natural sweetness; slice it thin for quick cooking.
- Garlic – Enhances the aroma; finely chop to unleash its flavor.
- Spring Onions – Adds freshness; cut into 2-inch pieces for a lovely presentation.
- Bell Pepper – Contributes color and sweetness; use red or green, sliced thinly.
- Carrot – Offers a sweet crunch; julienned for faster cooking.
- Cabbage – Adds texture and a lovely crunch; slice it thinly for best results.
For the Sauces
- Light Soy Sauce – This adds seasoning and can be substituted with regular soy sauce.
- Dark Soy Sauce – Provides a rich color and deeper flavors; essential for browning the noodles.
- Oyster Sauce – Delivers umami depth; can be replaced with hoisin sauce for a vegetarian option.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor; crucial for achieving authentic taste.
- Brown/White Sugar – Helps balance the saltiness of the sauce for a well-rounded flavor.
- White Pepper – Offers a mild spice that complements the dish beautifully.
Remember, this Chicken Chow Mein can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences by simply swapping out various ingredients!
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
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Marinate Chicken: Cut the chicken into thin slices and toss it in a bowl with light soy sauce, cornstarch, baking soda, white pepper, sesame oil, and sugar. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and texture.
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Prepare Noodles: Boil the dried egg noodles following the package instructions until just tender. Drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent stickiness.
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Prep Sauce: In a separate bowl, stir together the ingredients for the chow mein sauce. This step ensures the flavors are well-balanced and ready for easy incorporation later.
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Cook Chicken: Heat a wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Stir-fry the marinated chicken for about 3-4 minutes until it’s cooked through and lightly golden. Remove from the wok and set aside.
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Cook Vegetables: In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and onions first, then add the hard vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. After a minute, add the cabbage and stir-fry until everything is tender yet crisp.
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Combine Ingredients: Toss in the cooked noodles along with the prepared sauce, mixing well to coat everything evenly. Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the wok and toss again until combined.
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Finish & Serve: Finish by adding the spring onions, giving everything a final toss. Serve your Chicken Chow Mein hot, enjoying the vibrant colors and aromas it brings to the table.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
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Room Temperature: Due to safety concerns, it’s best not to leave Chicken Chow Mein out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze Chicken Chow Mein for up to 2 months. Portion it into airtight containers, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To reheat, place in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water, stirring occasionally until heated through. This keeps the noodles from drying out and enhances the flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing its flavor while preventing it from drying out. Additionally, vegetables like bell pepper, carrots, and cabbage can be chopped ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles can also be cooked and refrigerated, just make sure to toss them with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir-fry the chicken and vegetables, add in your prepped noodles, and pour in the sauce. In no time, you’ll have a delicious Chicken Chow Mein that’s just as satisfying as it would have been on the first day!
What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?
Set the stage for an unforgettable meal with delightful pairings that elevate your Chicken Chow Mein experience.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that adds crunch and a light contrast to the savory dish, complementing the rich flavors beautifully.
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Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with vibrant vegetables, these make for a wonderful appetizer that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine.
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Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory, dumplings stuffed with your choice of meat or vegetables are a perfect accompaniment for a hearty meal.
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Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This tender green adds a burst of freshness and color on the plate, enhancing nutrition and flavor balance.
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Hot and Sour Soup: A warm, tangy broth that awakens the palate, providing a comforting start or side to your main dish.
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Green Tea: This delicate beverage is soothing and aids digestion, serving as the ideal drink to complement your chow mein.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, these soft and chewy cookies provide a nostalgic comfort that will leave everyone smiling after dinner.
With these enticing accompaniments, your dining experience will be not only satisfying but also memorable, ensuring everyone goes home with happy hearts and full bellies!
Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Feel free to make this dish truly yours by trying out any of these tempting alternatives!
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with prawns or beef for delicious twists—just adjust cooking times as needed.
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Tofu Option: Use firm tofu, marinated in soy sauce, to create a hearty vegetarian delight. Fry until golden for extra texture.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in mushrooms, baby corn, or snow peas to elevate the flavor profile and add vibrant colors.
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Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes towards the end of cooking.
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Saucy Delight: Swap oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a sweeter, vegetarian-friendly alternative that still packs a flavor punch.
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Noodle Choice: Try using rice noodles instead of egg noodles for a gluten-free option that offers a delightful twist on texture.
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Nutty Flavor: Drizzle in a bit more sesame oil at the end of cooking for an extra layer of rich, nutty aroma.
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Crispy Finish: Top with crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds before serving for an added crunch that will delight your guests.
Let your creativity shine as you explore these variations—each one brings a unique flair to your Chicken Chow Mein!
Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
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Marinate Wisely: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes for maximum tenderness and flavor; skipping this step may result in dry meat.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Wok: Use a large wok to prevent ingredients from steaming instead of sautéing; this ensures your chicken and veggies get that beautiful, crisp texture.
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Prep Everything First: Have all your ingredients chopped and sauces mixed before cooking; this makes the stir-frying process seamless and helps prevent overcooked ingredients.
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Control the Sticky Noodles: If your noodles become sticky, rinse them briefly with hot water and toss them with a bit of oil before adding to the dish for perfect texture.
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Adjust Sauces to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the soy and oyster sauce levels based on your preference; balancing these flavors will enhance your Chicken Chow Mein experience.
Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles should I use for Chicken Chow Mein?
Dried egg noodles are traditional and provide the best texture, but you can also use fresh egg noodles if you prefer them. Just remember that fresh noodles may require less cooking time compared to dried ones.
How do I store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
Store any leftover Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing to help maintain its freshness.
Can Chicken Chow Mein be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Chow Mein! I recommend portioning it into airtight containers, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan with a splash of water to revive its flavor and prevent drying out.
What if my noodles are sticky?
If you find that your noodles are sticky, don’t worry! Simply rinse them briefly under hot water to separate them, then toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking when you add them back to the dish. This step will keep your chow mein looking and tasting great.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Chow Mein?
Definitely! If you’re preparing Chicken Chow Mein for anyone with allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce and oyster sauce, as they can contain wheat and shellfish respectively. You can substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or hoisin sauce for a vegan-friendly option. Plus, don’t hesitate to adjust vegetables based on preferences or availability!
Can I customize the vegetables in my Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! Chicken Chow Mein is wonderfully adaptable. You can include a wide variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or even leafy greens like bok choy. The goal is to balance colors and textures while tailoring it to your family’s tastes. Enjoy experimenting!
Satisfying Chicken Chow Mein Ready in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate Chicken: Cut the chicken into thin slices and toss it in a bowl with light soy sauce, cornstarch, baking soda, white pepper, sesame oil, and sugar. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare Noodles: Boil the dried egg noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prep Sauce: In a separate bowl, stir together the ingredients for the chow mein sauce.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a wok over medium-high heat, add cooking oil, and stir-fry the marinated chicken for about 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same wok, sauté garlic and onions, then add hard vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, followed by cabbage.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss in the cooked noodles along with the prepared sauce and mixed well. Add cooked chicken back into the wok.
- Finish & Serve: Add spring onions and give a final toss. Serve hot.