Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce is a delightful dish that easily outshines takeout options. This homemade version combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and classic chow mein noodles tossed in an unforgettable sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this one-pan meal brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious meal in under 35 minutes.
• Flavorful Sauce: The best chow mein sauce elevates the dish, combining savory oyster sauce with a hint of sweetness from granulated sugar.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand—bell peppers, snap peas, or bean sprouts work beautifully!
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, this recipe provides a nutritious alternative to greasy takeout.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious chicken chow mein effectively, gather your tools first. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large wok or pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large wok or pan: Allows for even cooking and easy tossing of ingredients, ensuring everything is well combined.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for preparing the chow mein sauce without spilling ingredients everywhere.
• Whisk: Helps combine the sauce ingredients smoothly for a well-blended flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken and Noodles

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
• 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)

Vegetables

• 2 cups cabbage
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• 1/2 batch green onions
• 2 garlic cloves

Chow Mein Sauce

• 6 tbsp oyster sauce
• 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp corn starch
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

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

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, use a whisk to combine:
1. 6 tbsp oyster sauce
2. 1 tbsp granulated sugar
3. 3 tbsp light sesame oil
4. 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
5. 1/2 cup chicken broth
6. 1 tbsp corn starch

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Prepare the chow mein noodles according to package instructions:
1. Boil water in a pot.
2. Add noodles and cook until tender.
3. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop cooking.
4. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large wok or pan over medium heat and add:
– 3 tbsp oil

Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips:
1. Add them to the hot oil.
2. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides.
3. Remove strips from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pan, add:
– Julienned carrots,
– Chopped cabbage,
– Pressed garlic cloves.

Sauté for about:
– 3–5 minutes until veggies soften slightly and cabbage becomes translucent.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Return cooked chicken and drained noodles to the pan:
1. Pour your prepared sauce over everything.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Continue cooking together for another 2 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Garnish your chicken chow mein with chopped green onions:
– Serve immediately from the pan while it’s piping hot!

Enjoy your homemade chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce!

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

Chicken chow mein is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your chicken chow mein to the next level.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken chow mein directly from the pan for a communal feel. This encourages sharing and adds to the fun of family meals.

Individual Bowls

• Portion the chicken chow mein into individual bowls for a more personalized touch. This is great for meal prep or when hosting guests who prefer their own servings.

With Extra Green Onions

• Top each serving with additional chopped green onions. This adds a fresh crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Accompanied by Chili Sauce

• Offer chili sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat. It allows guests to customize their spice level according to their preference.

Garnished with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving. This not only adds texture but also brings out the nutty flavors in the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Perfecting chicken chow mein is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will significantly improve taste and texture.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Follow package instructions carefully; undercooked noodles maintain a better bite.
• Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your wok or pan is hot before adding oil. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer; if you like it lighter, add more broth.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Pairing side dishes with chicken chow mein can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a satisfying crunch.
2. Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, these rolled delights add a refreshing contrast to hearty chow mein.
3. Fried Rice: A classic pairing, fried rice offers additional flavors and textures alongside your chow mein.
4. Hot and Sour Soup: This tangy soup warms up any meal, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
5. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or veggies serve as delightful bites that enhance your dining experience.
6. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil balances out the richness of chow mein.
7. Sesame Broccoli: Steamed broccoli drizzled with sesame oil adds nutrition and bright color to your plate.
8. Wontons: Crispy wontons filled with savory ingredients are always a hit at any Asian-inspired dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken chow mein at home can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the sauce prep: Failing to prepare the chow mein sauce beforehand can lead to uneven flavors. Always mix your sauce ingredients in advance for a balanced taste.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking noodles too long makes them mushy. Follow package directions closely and rinse them with cold water after cooking.
• Using low-quality chicken: Using tough or old chicken can spoil the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breast for the best results.
• Neglecting vegetable timing: Adding vegetables too early can cause them to overcook and lose their crunch. Sauté them just until slightly softened for the best texture.
• Not garnishing properly: Skipping garnish means missing out on flavor and visual appeal. Always finish with fresh green onions for color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chicken chow mein in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Allow the chow mein to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, where it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chow mein in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Stir in chow mein and cook until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish:

What is Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?

Chicken chow mein is a stir-fried noodle dish featuring chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful homemade sauce that enhances its taste.

Can I customize my Chicken Chow Mein?

Absolutely! You can add various vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas or use shrimp instead of chicken for different flavors.

How spicy is this Chicken Chow Mein recipe?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer some heat.

What sides go well with Chicken Chow Mein?

Pair your chow mein with steamed rice or spring rolls for a complete meal that satisfies.

Final Thoughts

Chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe at home; you’ll love how quickly you can whip up a satisfying meal!