Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

This homemade Chicken Chow Mein is a delicious one-pan dinner that’s loaded with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and classic chow mein noodles, all tossed in the best savory chow mein sauce. It’s much better than takeout, and you can make it right at home in just 35 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, crispy veggies, and a perfectly balanced sauce makes this dish flavorful and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. If you’re craving an authentic chow mein experience, this recipe is the way to go!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Chow Mein:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
3 tbsp oil
12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked)
2 cups cabbage (shredded)
1 large carrot (julienned)
½ batch green onions (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (pressed)

For the Chow Mein Sauce:
4 tbsp oyster sauce (or to taste)
3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
3 tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted)
½ cup chicken broth
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp granulated sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and granulated sugar. Set aside.

Cook the Noodles:

1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large wok or pan over medium heat.

2. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and cook them in the oil until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Sauté Vegetables:

1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.

2. Add the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and pressed garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the veggies are slightly softened and the cabbage becomes translucent.

Combine Everything:

1. Add the cooked chicken and noodles back into the pan.

2. Pour the chow mein sauce over the top and toss everything together. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes, allowing the sauce to coat everything evenly.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish the chow mein with chopped green onions. Serve hot, straight from the pan!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8 people.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy for a vegetarian version.

2. Add Heat: Add a dash of sriracha or some chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce for an extra spicy kick.

3. Swap Noodles: If you can’t find chow mein noodles, you can use any type of stir-fry noodles or even rice noodles.

4. Extra Protein: Add shrimp or beef instead of chicken for a different protein.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, vegetables, and sauce in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator and then combine and cook when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use pre-cooked noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can use cooked chow mein noodles. You’ll need about 1 lb of pre-cooked noodles, and the cooking time will be shorter since the noodles are already cooked.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version. Ensure the noodles are also gluten-free or use rice noodles.

What can I serve with this dish?

Chicken Chow Mein is a complete meal, but you can serve it with a side of steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or a simple side salad.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Rinse the noodles with cold water after cooking to remove excess starch and prevent them from sticking. You can also toss them with a little oil to keep them separated.

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is an easy, delicious, and customizable dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. With juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a savory sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and is much better than takeout. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty, satisfying, and homemade! Enjoy this savory meal with your favorite sides or by itself for a complete meal.

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