There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made chicken chow mein, and this recipe brings you just that with the ultimate sauce that ties it all together. Whether you’re craving takeout or want to impress with a homemade dish, this chicken chow mein is packed with flavor and textures you’ll love.
You'll find this chicken chow mein recipe easy to follow and quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. The rich sauce clings to tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles, creating a dish that’s truly irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful homemade sauce that beats takeout.
- Balanced blend of tender chicken, noodles, and fresh veggies.
- Customizable to suit your preferred vegetables or spice level.
- Perfect for meal prep or a family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make a delicious batch of chicken chow mein with the ultimate sauce:
- 8 ounces chow mein noodles or thin egg noodles
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red or green)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
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Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
How to Make Irresistible Chicken Chow Mein with the Ultimate Sauce | CookedByMomy
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes to create the ultimate sauce. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over everything, stirring gently to coat. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Results
- Slice chicken thinly against the grain for the most tender bites.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for vibrant, aromatic flavor in your sauce.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain crisp to add texture.
- Let the sauce simmer briefly with the cornstarch slurry to achieve a perfect glossy finish.
- Feel free to swap vegetables based on what you have—snap peas or mushrooms work great!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain even temperature.
You can also freeze the chow mein in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add extra juiciness and flavor to your chow mein. Just slice them thinly and adjust cooking time until fully cooked.
What noodles work best for chicken chow mein?
Traditional chow mein noodles or thin egg noodles are ideal. You can also use spaghetti or lo mein noodles as substitutes, but avoid thicker noodles that won't absorb the sauce as well.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and snap peas. Use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce alone to keep the sauce flavorful without animal products.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
While you can prep ingredients in advance, it’s best to cook and toss everything together just before serving. This ensures noodles stay firm and vegetables stay crisp for the best texture.