Chicken Chow Mein is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its savory flavors, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, all tossed together with delicious noodles. This homemade version allows you to create this classic takeout favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can whip up a batch of Chicken Chow Mein that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
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
Chow Mein:
- 8 ounces chow mein noodles (see notes)
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or peanut oil
- 1 ½ pounds 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
Instructions:
- Prepare Chow Mein Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce or oyster sauce, grated ginger, mirin or sugar, Chinese cooking wine (if using), sesame oil, and cornstarch until well combined. Set aside.
- Cook Chow Mein Noodles:
- Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Toss with sesame oil to prevent clumping. Set aside.
- Stir-Fry Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until they are cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables:
- In the same skillet or wok, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Add shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, minced garlic, and sliced green onions. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet or wok with the vegetables. Pour the prepared chow mein sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Add Noodles:
- Add the cooked chow mein noodles to the skillet or wok with the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together until the noodles are heated through and well coated with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Chicken Chow Mein to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with additional sliced green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Noodle Options: If you can’t find chow mein noodles, you can substitute with egg noodles or even spaghetti noodles for a similar texture.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, bean sprouts, or snow peas to suit your taste preferences.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the chow mein sauce before adding it to the skillet and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness, more hoisin sauce for sweetness, or more ginger for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Serve Chicken Chow Mein with steamed rice or fried rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Appetizers: Start your meal with some delicious Chinese appetizers such as egg rolls, potstickers, or crab rangoons for an authentic dining experience.
- Dessert: Finish off your meal with a sweet treat like fortune cookies or mango pudding for a delightful end to your dining experience.
Homemade Chicken Chow Mein is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to Chinese cuisine, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese flavor with this homemade Chicken Chow Mein!
