Name: Easy Chicken Chow Mein
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chow mein noodles; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup red bell pepper; 3 cups napa cabbage; 1 cup matchstick carrots; 1/2 cup green onions; 1 tablespoon ginger; 4 cloves garlic; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; sesame seeds; green onions

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There’s something special about making a dish that brings back memories from childhood, and for me, that dish is Easy Chicken Chow Mein. I remember the first time I tried this dish at my friend’s house. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. We gathered around the table, laughter echoing as we enjoyed the colorful mix of vegetables and tender chicken nestled among the noodles. Every bite was a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and a hint of spice, making it a family favorite. Now, I love recreating this Easy Chicken Chow Mein at home, allowing my family to share in those cherished memories. It’s a dish I can whip up on a busy weeknight or make for a cozy gathering. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a meal that’s not only delicious but also comforting. So, let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Whisk, Cutting Board

Why This Easy Chicken Chow Mein Hits Different

It’s a Quick Fix

One of the best things about Easy Chicken Chow Mein is how quick it is to prepare. You can have a flavorful meal on the table in under thirty minutes. This makes it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to cook. Just a few simple steps and you’re ready to go!

Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients in Easy Chicken Chow Mein are not only simple but versatile. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have in your fridge. Don’t have napa cabbage? Use regular cabbage. Want to add some crunch? Toss in some snap peas or bean sprouts! This adaptability means you can customize it to your tastes or what’s in season.

A Family Favorite

I’ve found that Easy Chicken Chow Mein is a surefire way to please the whole family. Kids love the fun textures and flavors, while adults appreciate the wholesome ingredients. It’s a dish that encourages everyone to sit together and enjoy a meal, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Leftover Love

This dish is not just good fresh; it’s even better the next day! The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making Easy Chicken Chow Mein an excellent choice for meal prep. Pack it away for lunches or reheat it for an easy dinner. You’ll find that every bite reminds you of the delicious home-cooked meal you prepared.

A Flavorful Sauce

The sauce for Easy Chicken Chow Mein is a perfect blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, adding depth and richness to the dish. The savory notes from the sauce pair beautifully with the tender chicken and crisp vegetables, creating a delightful balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. You can even adjust the sauce to suit your taste – add more soy for saltiness or a pinch of sugar for sweetness!

Ingredients Required for Easy Chicken Chow Mein

Every ingredient in Easy Chicken Chow Mein plays a significant role in delivering flavor and texture. From the chewy noodles to the tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, they come together to create a satisfying meal. The combination of ingredients not only enhances the taste but also ensures a nutritious balance. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

1 lb chow mein noodles or yakisoba noodles – These noodles are the heart of the dish, offering chewy texture and a base for all the flavors to meld.
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into 1/2-inch thick strips – Juicy pieces of chicken provide protein and keep you feeling full.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – This helps to sauté the ingredients and adds a bit of richness.
1 cup red bell pepper thinly sliced – Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
3 cups napa cabbage thinly sliced – A tender leafy green that adds volume and nutrition.
1 cup matchstick carrots – For a touch of sweetness and crunch, making the dish more colorful.
1/2 cup green onions diced – These bring a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
1 tablespoon ginger minced – Infuses the dish with warmth and a little spice.
4 garlic cloves minced – Offers an aromatic flavor that can’t be beaten.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps to thicken the sauce for a better coating on the noodles.
1/2 cup chicken broth – Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
1/4 cup soy sauce low-sodium – A key ingredient for flavor without overpowering saltiness.
3 tablespoons oyster sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor that complements the chicken.
1 tablespoon white granulated sugar – Balances out the saltiness of the soy and oyster sauces.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – For a hint of spice, elevating the dish’s flavor profile.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – Gives a nutty aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
Sesame seeds – A lovely garnish that adds crunch and presentation.
Green onions – Optional garnish for added flavor and color.

Directions for Easy Chicken Chow Mein

Cooking Easy Chicken Chow Mein is a breeze, and I can assure you that the results are incredibly satisfying. You’ll find that every step is simple and straightforward, making the cooking process enjoyable. Let’s jump into the steps to create this delicious meal:

Start by preparing the chow mein noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. This will ensure they’re ready to soak up all the flavors later on.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients including the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, cornstarch, and white sugar. Mix well until combined and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large deep non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. You want to make sure it’s hot enough to give a nice sear.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips (you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding) and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate.
Lower the heat slightly and add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the matchstick carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes. Look for them to become tender yet still slightly crisp.
Next, add the napa cabbage and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
Now it’s time to add in the green onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant and the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Toss the cooked noodles back into the skillet along with the browned chicken. Pour the prepared sauce over the top and toss everything to coat evenly.
Allow it all to heat through for about a minute, mixing continuously. You want everything to be well combined and the noodles coated in that delicious sauce.
Serve the Easy Chicken Chow Mein warm, garnishing with sesame seeds and additional green onions if desired. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your loved ones!

Things Worth Knowing

Use high heat: Cooking over high heat helps to quickly sear the ingredients, preserving their texture and flavor.
Prep ahead: Chop your vegetables and prepare the sauce in advance to make cooking quicker and easier.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If the pan is too crowded, the ingredients will steam instead of sauté, resulting in a less desirable texture.
Adjust spice level: Feel free to add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your preferred spice level.

Change It Up

While Easy Chicken Chow Mein is fantastic as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to fit your preferences! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Extra Veggies: Add in more vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy to boost nutrition and flavor.
Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a unique twist.
Spicy Kick: For those who love spice, consider adding some chili paste or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce.
Adding Nuts: Top your dish with some cashews or peanuts for an added crunch and richness.
Serving Options: Serve the chow mein with a side of spring rolls or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Easy Chicken Chow Mein, the options are endless! Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience:

Pair with Spring Rolls: Serve the chow mein alongside crispy spring rolls for a delightful texture contrast.
Fresh Salad: A light cucumber or Asian slaw salad can complement the dish and provide a refreshing crunch.
Casual Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for a casual family dinner, allowing everyone to serve themselves and mix in their favorite ingredients.
Meal Prep: Make a larger batch for meal prep! Store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a potluck or a family gathering, Easy Chicken Chow Mein is sure to please a crowd!
Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for the best results.

FAQ

Absolutely! While chow mein noodles are traditional, you can use other types like spaghetti or rice noodles in a pinch. Each noodle will bring its own texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment and find the one you love best!

To make Easy Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free, simply substitute chow mein noodles with gluten-free noodles and use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Check the labels carefully to ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this dish!

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply stir-fry everything together. This is a fantastic way to save time and enjoy a fresh meal with minimal effort!

You can get creative with the vegetables in Easy Chicken Chow Mein. Try adding broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, or zucchini. Almost any vegetable can work, so use what you have on hand or what you love the most!

Conclusion

The Easy Chicken Chow Mein is not just a meal but a cherished recipe that brings everyone together. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe for yourself; you won’t regret it. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, this dish is bound to leave you with a satisfied smile. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the joy of sharing this delicious meal with loved ones!