Classic Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 medium carrots, julienned
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup bean sprouts
2 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup water
200g chow mein noodles

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine chicken slices, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly, and set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
Add the onion, carrots, and red bell pepper to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
In a separate pot, boil water and cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
Add the cooked noodles, bean sprouts, and green onions to the pan with the chicken and vegetables.
Pour the water into the pan and stir well, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined and coated with the sauce.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
Serve the Chicken Chow Mein immediately, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Tools for making

Wok or large frying pan - This will be used to stir-fry the ingredients.
Large bowl - This will be used to marinate the chicken.
Pot - This will be used to cook the chow mein noodles.
Knife - This will be used to thinly slice the chicken and prepare the vegetables.
Cutting board - This will be used as a surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
Measuring spoons - These will be used to accurately measure the sauces and cornstarch.
Stirring utensil - This can be a spatula or wooden spoon, used for stirring and tossing the ingredients in the pan.
Strainer - This will be used to drain the cooked chow mein noodles.

Recipe variations

Substitute the chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
Add different vegetables such as mushrooms, snow peas, or baby corn.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers.
Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki sauce or sweet and sour sauce.
Include other Asian flavors like sesame oil, fish sauce, or Chinese five-spice powder.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute the chow mein noodles with rice noodles or zucchini noodles.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables or tofu.
Add a handful of cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
For a healthier version, stir-fry the ingredients in coconut oil or olive oil instead of vegetable oil.
Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili sauce or hot sauce added.

Recipe overview

Quick, flavorful, and satisfying, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is a classic Chinese dish that can be made right at home. Stir-fried chicken, colorful veggies, and chewy chow mein noodles are combined in a rich, savory sauce for a delicious meal that's way better than takeout. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but also flexible - feel free to substitute the vegetables or even the protein to suit your preferences. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you'll have a vibrant and tasty dish on your table in no time. Enjoy this Chicken Chow Mein as a delightful lunch or a comforting dinner.

Common questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preferences. You can add or substitute with vegetables like mushrooms, snow peas, or baby corn.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it's best to enjoy Chicken Chow Mein fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and then quickly stir-fry them when you're ready to serve. However, the noodles may become soft if mixed and stored for too long.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables or tofu as a protein substitute. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with Chicken Chow Mein? Chicken Chow Mein is delicious on its own but can be complemented with sides like steamed rice, fried rice, or a side of Asian-inspired vegetables.
Can I freeze the leftovers? It is not recommended to freeze Chicken Chow Mein as the noodles may become mushy upon thawing. It is best to enjoy it fresh or store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving dishes and utensils

Wok - A traditional Chinese cooking pan with high, sloping sides that helps in stir-frying the ingredients evenly.
Frying Pan - An alternative to the wok, a large frying pan can also be used for cooking the Chicken Chow Mein.
Large Bowl - To marinate the chicken and mix the sauce.
Tongs - Useful for flipping and stirring the chicken and vegetables while cooking.
Chef's Knife - Needed for thinly slicing the chicken, mincing garlic and ginger, and cutting the vegetables.
Cutting Board - To chop and prepare the ingredients.
Spatula - For stirring and tossing the ingredients in the pan.
Pot - To boil water and cook the chow mein noodles.
Colander - For draining the cooked noodles.
Serving Plates or Bowls - To serve the Chicken Chow Mein.
Garnish - Optional garnish such as extra green onions for sprinkling on top.

Origin stories

Chow Mein, a staple in Chinese cuisine, has an intriguing history that traces back to the northern parts of China. It was there, amid the bustling marketplaces and aromatic kitchens, that this stir-fried noodle dish was born, its name literally translating to "stir-fried noodles". However, it wasn't until the dish made its journey across the Pacific to America in the mid-19th century, carried in the hearts and minds of Chinese immigrants during the California Gold Rush, that it transformed into the Chow Mein many of us recognize today. Adapting to local ingredients and tastes, this humble noodle dish took on vibrant new forms – including the Chicken Chow Mein we're preparing today. So as you savor the medley of flavors in each bite, take a moment to appreciate the rich, transcontinental journey that Chow Mein has embarked upon to reach your dinner plate.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.