The aroma of sizzling chicken and crisp vegetables fills the kitchen as you prepare to indulge in a comforting bowl of Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce. This quick and easy recipe takes just 30 minutes and delivers a delightful balance of savory flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknight dinners.
This recipe is perfect for families and anyone looking for a satisfying meal in a hurry. Make it any night of the week or whip it up for a casual lunch. You can prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making this dish even easier to bring together when you’re short on time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It features tender chicken strips that are perfectly golden brown.
- The chow mein noodles offer a delightful chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy vegetables.
- The sauce is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that coat every ingredient.
- It’s a quick, one-pan dish that minimizes cleanup time.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to make your chow mein:
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized strips
- 3 tbsp oil, divided
For the Noodles
- 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked)
For the Vegetables
- 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
Use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breast can be replaced with pork or tofu.
- For a gluten-free option, use rice noodles.
- Cabbage can be substituted with bok choy.
- Light sesame oil is interchangeable with vegetable oil.
How to Make It
Follow these steps to whip up your chow mein:
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, granulated sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Set aside to thicken.
Cook the Noodles
Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pan and sauté the carrots, cabbage, and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the cabbage is translucent.
Combine and Cook
Add the cooked chicken and noodles back to the pan. Pour the sauce over the top and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot for an inviting finish.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the noodles become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Rinse the noodles thoroughly to keep them from sticking together.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preference for sweetness or saltiness.
- Ensure the pan is hot enough to achieve the perfect sear on the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking the chicken to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
- Serve alongside fresh spring rolls for added crunch.
- Enjoy with a refreshing cucumber salad for balance.
