During those bustling weeknights, when everyone’s coming and going, I find myself reaching for quick, satisfying meals. Nothing hits the spot quite like a steaming bowl of Chow Mein, especially after a long day at work.
And if I happen to throw in a few sprigs of crispy green onions and freshly sautéed veggies, it feels like a mini celebration even at home. I often enjoy this dish right after cooking, but it’s also great for lunch boxes the next day. Have you ever noticed how a simple plate of chow mein can brighten your mood? It’s simply comforting.
Asian Chicken Chow Mein is a classic dish that’s easy to whip up and never disappoints. It's a delightful mix of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and those iconic, chewy noodles. This dish captures the essence of a cozy restaurant meal, made right in your kitchen. With this recipe at hand, I could practically hear the sizzling sounds of the wok bringing everything together.
Chow Mein can be versatile too; it’s effortlessly adaptable based on what you have at home, making it a favorite in my recipe repertoire.
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For this Chow Mein, I've assembled a medley of fresh and vibrant ingredients. The star is definitely the chicken breast, which I’ve sliced into little strips for perfectly tender bites. Chow mein noodles give that signature chewy texture, while cabbage and carrot add refreshing crunch and color. I couldn’t go without the garlic, as it gives a wonderful depth of flavor. The real magic happens in the sauce, where oyster sauce combines with soy sauce and light sesame oil for an irresistible umami kick. I’ve decided to enhance it further with a sprinkle of ginger and a splash of rice vinegar. Just a dash can lift the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 3 Tbsp oil (I recommend canola or vegetable oil for high heat)
- 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 large carrot, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 batch green onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Chow Mein Sauce:
- 4 Tbsp oyster sauce (adjust based on preference)
- 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 Tbsp corn starch
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (new addition)
- 1 Tbsp rice vinegar (new addition)
Ingredients From : natashaskitchen.com
Ready to bring this dish to life? It’s easier than you think! Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started. I’ll guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have this delicious meal ready in no time.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, granulated sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, corn starch, minced ginger, and rice vinegar. This method allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Set this flavorful concoction aside for later.
Next, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the chow mein noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. This usually takes around 3-4 minutes. Once they're tender, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. It’s crucial to prevent them from becoming mushy! Set those noodles aside and let them chill for a moment.
Now, heat a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add your oil and wait for it to shimmer, which means it’s hot enough. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pan. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and no longer pink in the center. This step brings out the chicken's flavor and gives that delightful texture. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep it warm.
In the same wok, throw in the shredded cabbage and sliced carrots. Don’t forget the minced garlic! Stir-fry these for about 3 to 5 minutes until the cabbage becomes slightly translucent and the carrots soften. The aroma from the garlic and vegetables is invigorating, I must say!
Return the cooked chicken to the wok along with the chow mein noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over everything, ensuring it coats the ingredients evenly. Toss everything together for another 2 minutes. This helps each component absorb the garlicky, savory flavors, making every bite something to savor.
Once everything is heated through, and the sauce thickens slightly, it's time to plate. Garnish your Chow Mein with chopped green onions on top. Serve it hot from the pan and watch it disappear in seconds!
- For extra crunch, consider adding bean sprouts or snap peas.
- Keep the heat at medium-high to prevent the chicken or veggies from stewing.
- Use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning, especially the soy sauce, to suit your preference.
- This dish makes fantastic leftovers and can easily be reheated.
If you have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple—just toss it in a pan over medium heat and add a splash of water if it seems dry. You want it back to that delightful "freshly cooked" state!
Serving Suggestions
- Top with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and extra nutty flavor.
- Pair with Egg Rolls: Serve alongside crispy egg rolls for a well-rounded meal.
- Add Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, drizzle some sriracha or chili sauce for added heat.
- Serve with Chilled Green Tea: The refreshing taste of green tea perfectly complements the savory flavors of the chow mein.
- Add a Side Salad: A fresh cucumber salad with a light dressing can balance the meal perfectly.
- Chicken Thighs instead of Chicken Breasts: For extra juiciness, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap in pea pods or broccoli for different textures.
- Soy Sauce Alternatives: Use coconut aminos for a soy-free option while keeping a savory flavor.
- Sauces: Hoisin sauce can be a great alternative if you're looking for a different taste.
- Noodles: If you can’t find chow mein noodles, lo mein or even rice noodles work wonderfully!
Asian Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful dish that can elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. With its simple ingredients and adaptable nature, it’s a culinary treasure everyone can appreciate.
The next time you feel rushed but don’t want to compromise on flavor, reach for this recipe. You might find it becoming a staple in your dinner rotation, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking!
Asian Chicken Chow Mein is a classic dish that’s easy to whip up and never disappoints. It's a delightful mix of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and those iconic, chewy noodles. This dish captures the essence of a cozy restaurant meal, made right in your kitchen. With this recipe at hand, I could practically hear the sizzling sounds of the wok bringing everything together.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- For extra crunch, consider adding bean sprouts or snap peas.
- Keep the heat at medium-high to prevent the chicken or veggies from stewing.
- Use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning, especially the soy sauce, to suit your preference.
- This dish makes fantastic leftovers and can easily be reheated.
Martha Adams is a registered dietitian and the creator of Cheap Delicious Meals, a blog focused on making healthy, tasty, and affordable meals accessible to all. With over a decade of experience, Martha combines her expertise in nutrition with a passion for budget-friendly cooking. Her goal is to inspire people to eat well without overspending.