If you’re craving a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken, crispy veggies, and the best homemade sauce, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is for you! It’s a perfect one-pan meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Better than takeout: Skip the greasy takeout and make this fresh, flavorful, and healthier version at home!
• Easy to customize: Swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different take on the dish.
• Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
• Packed with flavor: The homemade chow mein sauce is the star of the dish, giving you that signature umami taste.
Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein
For the Chow Mein Sauce:
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color and deeper flavor)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
For the Chicken Chow Mein:
• 8 oz chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• ½ cup carrot, julienned
• ½ cup bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all the chow mein sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
• Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced chicken breast and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
• In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon of oil.
• Toss in the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers and stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
• Add the bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for another minute.
Step 5: Combine Everything
• Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
• Add the cooked noodles and pour in the chow mein sauce.
• Toss everything together over medium heat until well coated and heated through (about 2 minutes).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
• Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chicken Chow Mein!
Serving Suggestions
• Pair it with an appetizer: Serve with spring rolls, potstickers, or wonton soup for a full meal experience.
• Make it a combo plate: Add a side of steamed rice or fried rice for variety.
• Top it off with extra protein: Try adding a fried egg on top for a delicious twist!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Instructions
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or soy sauce, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
• Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Chow Mein
✔ Use fresh noodles if possible – They have better texture and absorb the sauce well.
✔ Don’t overcook the veggies – Keep them slightly crisp for the perfect bite.
✔ Cook on high heat – A hot pan gives you that authentic wok-charred flavor.
✔ Slice the chicken thinly – This helps it cook quickly and stay tender.
✔ Customize the vegetables – Feel free to add mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Chow Mein is a must-try recipe that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. With the perfect combination of juicy chicken, crispy vegetables, and the best homemade sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or prepping for leftovers, this chow mein recipe is a keeper.
So why wait? Skip the takeout, grab your wok, and enjoy homemade chow mein tonight!
Let me know how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
