Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, then this Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce is just the ticket! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s quick to whip up yet bursting with flavor and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead, this savory stir-fry will surely become a favorite at your table.

Imagine tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and delightful chow mein noodles all tossed together in a delicious homemade sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together and creates lasting memories. So, let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish, making it a hit for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Option: Great for meal prep! You can cook it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful Homemade Sauce: The best part? You get to enjoy the rich flavors of a restaurant-style chow mein right at home!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and lean protein, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 lb chicken breast, boneless, skinless
• 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, minced

For the Sauce

• 6 tbsp oyster sauce
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

Variations

This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using sliced beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli can add extra color and nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to give it an exciting kick!
• Switch up the noodles: Use rice noodles or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a gluten-free option.

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, granulated sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch. This step is crucial because it creates the flavorful base that will coat your ingredients beautifully. Setting this aside ensures that once everything else is cooked, you can quickly bring it all together.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook your chow mein noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them well and rinse with cold water. Rinsing helps stop the cooking process and keeps them from getting sticky. Set them aside while you prepare the other components of your meal.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Cut your chicken into bite-sized strips and cook until they turn golden brown—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Removing the chicken once it’s cooked ensures that it stays tender; you’ll add it back later when everything is combined.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add any remaining oil along with carrots, cabbage, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become softened and fragrant. This step brings out their natural sweetness while keeping some crunch—a perfect texture contrast in your chow mein!

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add back in your cooked chicken and chow mein noodles. Pour that delicious sauce over everything and stir to combine thoroughly. Cook for another 2 minutes so that every ingredient gets nicely coated in that savory goodness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish your Chicken Chow Mein with chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor before serving hot. Enjoy every bite as it warms your heart and fills your belly!

With this guide in hand, I’m excited for you to try making Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce! It’s such a delightful dish that I hope becomes as loved in your home as it is in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce

Making the perfect Chicken Chow Mein is all about technique and timing, so here are some pro tips to help you achieve stir-fry success!

• Prep Everything First: Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents overcooking while you’re chopping veggies.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that delicious char. Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding oil; this helps seal in the moisture of the chicken and gives it a lovely golden color.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the chicken in two separate batches instead of cramming it all in at once. This allows each piece to cook evenly and brown nicely without steaming.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Bell peppers, snap peas, or bean sprouts make great additions and add vibrant colors!
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before pouring it over the noodles. This way, you can adjust flavors according to your preference—add more soy sauce for saltiness or a dash of sugar if you prefer a sweeter profile.

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce

Serving Chicken Chow Mein isn’t just about the taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some ideas for plating this delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch that enhances texture.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro can brighten up the dish with its herbal notes, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of citrus that complements the rich chow mein sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This simple side dish adds color and nutrients, making it a perfect complement to your chow mein while keeping meals balanced.
• Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetarian spring rolls are a delicious starter that pairs perfectly with chow mein, adding crunch and flavor variety.
• Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is not only healthy but also offers a fun finger food option that brings an authentic touch to your meal.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil provides a refreshing crunch that complements the warmth of the chow mein.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce, bringing restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For optimal freshness, allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the Chicken Chow Mein to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; label the container with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir frequently for even heating, and enjoy your meal!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use other proteins in Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your chow mein noodles are also certified gluten-free.

What vegetables can I add to Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce?

You can customize your chow mein by adding bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli. These veggies will bring extra color and nutrients!

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the chow mein sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes cooking even quicker!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce! It’s a wonderful recipe that brings together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a savory sauce that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a meal prep day, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!