Easy Chicken Chow Mein Recipe: A Delectable Chinese Classic

If you’re craving a delectable classic Chinese dish filled with chicken, carrots, cabbage, celery, onions, and crispy stir-fried noodles, then look no further. This easy Chicken Chow Mein recipe will allow you to recreate your favorite takeout at home. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Chow Mein Sauce

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 ½ tablespoons hoisin sauce or oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger or ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon mirin or granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine (optional)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Chow Mein

• 8 ounces chow mein noodles (see notes)
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or peanut oil
• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, cut into thin bite-size pieces
• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 carrots, julienned
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 green onions, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. Boil the Noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain well and toss with ½ teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, grated ginger, mirin, Chinese cooking wine (if using), sesame oil, and cornstarch until well combined.

Step 3: Crisp the Noodles

3. Crisp the Noodles: Heat a large skillet over medium heat until a drop of water sizzles on contact. Working in two batches, add the noodles and cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes or until they get crispy. Flip and crisp the other side. Remove the crispy noodles to a bowl and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

4. Cook the Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

5. Cook the Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is almost smoking, add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Cook until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 2-3 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic and chopped green onions. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30-60 seconds.

Step 6: Combine Everything

6. Mix Everything Together: Increase the heat to medium and return the chicken and noodles to the skillet. Whisk the sauce again and pour it into the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 2 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened and everything is well-coated.

Step 7: Serve

7. Serve Immediately: Serve the Chicken Chow Mein as soon as possible while everything is hot and at its best.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Chow Mein

• Choosing Noodles: Chinese noodles can be found in the Asian food section of your grocery store. Other noodles that work well include ramen, Yakisoba, or even thin spaghetti noodles.
• Don’t Overboil: Do not overboil the noodles; keep them slightly firm for the best texture.
• Vegetable Prep: Chop your veggies small and shred your cabbage thinly for quicker cooking times.
• Chicken Slicing: Cut the chicken into thin, bite-size slices rather than cubes to ensure even cooking.
• Oil Selection: Use oils with a high smoking point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for stir-frying.
• Sauce Substitutions: If you don’t have mirin, substitute it with 1 tablespoon of sherry and ½ tablespoon of brown sugar. If you can’t find oyster sauce, hoisin sauce is a great alternative.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers.
• Protein Variations: This recipe works well with beef, pork, or shrimp as well.
• Sauce Lover’s Tip: If you like a lot of sauce, consider doubling the sauce ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of noodle for Chicken Chow Mein?

Yes, you can use ramen, Yakisoba, or even thin spaghetti noodles if you can’t find traditional chow mein noodles.

What can I substitute for mirin if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have mirin, you can use 1 tablespoon of sherry mixed with ½ tablespoon of brown sugar.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian version.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at reduced power to avoid overcooking.

What other proteins can I use?

This recipe is versatile and works well with beef, pork, or shrimp as substitutes for chicken.

How can I make the dish saucier?

If you prefer more sauce, double the sauce ingredients to ensure your chow mein is extra saucy.

Is it necessary to use a high smoking point oil?

Yes, using oils with a high smoking point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil is important for achieving the best stir-fry results.

By following this detailed recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy a restaurant-quality Chicken Chow Mein right at home. It’s a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!