Chicken Chow Mein

This Chicken Chow Mein is a quick and flavorful stir-fry made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, chewy noodles, and a savory homemade sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy takeout-style dinner the whole family will love.

Chicken Chow Mein

Make this easy Chicken Chow Mein with tender chicken, vegetables, noodles, and a savory homemade sauce in just 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Calories: 495

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Chow Mein
• 8 ounces chow mein noodles
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced thin
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 3 green onions sliced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• For the Sauce
• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Method

 

1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package directions.
2. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, chicken broth, and black pepper.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
6. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
7. Add the remaining oil to the skillet.
8. Cook the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
9. Add the cabbage and carrots and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender.
10. Stir in the bean sprouts and green onions.
11. Return the chicken to the skillet.
12. Add the cooked noodles.
13. Pour the sauce over everything.
14. Toss well until evenly coated and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
15. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Don’t overcook the vegetables, they should stay slightly crisp.
• Fresh chow mein noodles provide the best texture.
• Cook the chicken in a single layer for better browning.
• Toss the noodles gently to keep them from breaking.
• Prepare all ingredients before cooking since stir-frying moves quickly.

Variations

• Add shrimp instead of chicken.
• Use beef or pork.
• Add broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas.
• Make it spicy with sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Use whole wheat noodles for extra fiber.

Serving Suggestions

• Egg rolls
• Crab rangoon
• Fried rice
• Steamed dumplings
• Hot and sour soup
• Asian cucumber salad

Tips

• Slice the chicken thinly so it cooks quickly.
• Use high heat for the best stir-fry flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
• Leftovers reheat well in a skillet.
• Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings

Serves: 4

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 495
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fat: 19g
• Sodium: 910mg

FAQs

What noodles are best for Chicken Chow Mein?

Fresh chow mein noodles are ideal, but dried chow mein noodles, yakisoba noodles, or even spaghetti can be used if needed.

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein ahead of time?

Yes. It can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?

Yes, although the vegetables may soften after thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, snow peas, bok choy, and baby corn are all excellent additions.

Why are my noodles sticking together?

Rinse the cooked noodles with cold water and toss them with a small amount of oil before adding them to the stir-fry.

What makes chow mein different from lo mein?

Chow mein noodles are typically stir-fried until slightly crisp, while lo mein noodles are tossed with sauce after boiling, resulting in a softer texture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Chow Mein is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dinner made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, chewy noodles, and a delicious homemade sauce. It’s better than takeout and comes together in just 30 minutes.