Name: Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, boneless, skinless; 3 Tbsp oil; 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles); 2 cups cabbage; 1 large carrot, julienned; 1/2 batch green onions; 2 garlic cloves; 4 Tbsp oyster sauce (or added to taste); 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce; 3 Tbsp light sesame oil ((not toasted)); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 Tbsp corn starch; 1 Tbsp granulated sugar

Introduction to Chicken Chow Mein

Chicken chow mein is a delightful dish that brings the vibrancy of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. If you've ever had a craving for takeout, this homemade version is the perfect solution! Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients and flavors, but making chicken chow mein at home can also be healthier and more affordable.

Why Make Chicken Chow Mein at Home?

Choosing to prepare chicken chow mein yourself opens up a world of creativity and customization. You get to pick your favorite vegetables, adjust the sauce to suit your palate, and even experiment with different types of noodles. Plus, cooking at home is often less expensive compared to ordering out. According to recent studies, making meals at home can save anywhere from 30% to 50% compared to dining at a restaurant.

Moreover, home-cooked meals foster a sense of accomplishment and allow for quality family or friend time in the kitchen. Whether you're whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or prepping for a small gathering, chicken chow mein is a one-pan meal that delivers flavor without excessive effort.

For tips on choosing the freshest ingredients, check out resources like Healthline, which emphasize the benefits of incorporating fresh produce into your meals. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade feast!

Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

Essential ingredients for the chow mein

Creating a delicious chicken chow mein starts with the right ingredients. Here are the essentials you'll need:

1 lb chicken breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized strips.
3 tablespoon oil: For sautéing, choose a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil.
12 oz chow mein noodles: Make sure they are uncooked for optimal texture.
2 cups cabbage: Adds a delightful crunch; you can use green or napa cabbage.
1 large carrot: Julienned for a pop of color and sweetness.
½ batch green onions: Fresh green onions enhance the flavor.
2 garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic base.

Best ingredients for the sauce

A great sauce can elevate your chicken chow mein from good to exceptional. Collect these ingredients:

4 tablespoon oyster sauce: This gives depth; feel free to add more to taste.
3 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce: For that savory umami flavor without excess salt.
3 tablespoon light sesame oil: Use the non-toasted version for a milder taste.
½ cup chicken broth: A homemade or store-bought version works well.
1 tablespoon corn starch: For thickening the sauce, giving it a wonderful gloss.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: To balance flavors and enhance sweetness.

With these ingredients on hand, you're all set to whip up a delicious chicken chow mein that’s better than takeout! If you're curious about ingredient substitutions or variations, check out this guide to stir-fry vegetables for inspiration!

Preparing Chicken Chow Mein

While takeout can be convenient, nothing beats a homemade plate of Chicken Chow Mein! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a flavorful dinner that will not only impress your palate but also save you some money. Let's dive into the preparation of this delicious dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we get started, it's crucial to have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
3 tablespoon oil
12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked)
2 cups cabbage
1 large carrot (julienned)
½ batch green onions
2 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Chow Mein Sauce:

4 tablespoon oyster sauce (adjust to taste)
3 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoon light sesame oil (not toasted)
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon corn starch
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Having everything prepped not only speeds up the cooking process but also makes it more enjoyable.

Whisk Together the Chow Mein Sauce

Combine the ingredients for the sauce in a small mixing bowl. Use a whisk to blend together the oyster sauce, granulated sugar, low sodium soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch until smooth. This step is vital as it creates the base flavor for your chicken chow mein that will bring everything together beautifully.

Cook the Noodles

Using a large pot, bring water to boil and cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. This usually takes only a few minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Set them aside and forget about them for a bit while focusing on the chicken.

Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large wok or frying pan over medium heat and add 3 tablespoon of oil. Cut the chicken into bite-sized strips and add them to the hot oil, cooking until golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Why not take a moment to savor that wonderful aroma?

Add the Veggies

In the same pan, toss in your julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the veggies are slightly softened—your kitchen will smell fantastic! The key here is to maintain some crunch in the vegetables for that perfect contrast in texture.

Combine All Ingredients

Reintroduce the chicken and cooked noodles to the pan. Pour the prepared chow mein sauce over everything and stir thoroughly. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well coated and heated through.

Garnish and Serve

To elevate your chicken chow mein, garnish it with freshly chopped green onions. Serve it straight from the pan for a delicious, piping-hot dinner or meal prep for those busy weeknights. Feel free to check out this recipe variation for inspiration!

Cooking Chicken Chow Mein at home not only gives you a taste of authentic flavors but also teaches you techniques that you can apply to various stir-fry dishes. Get ready to enjoy your delicious creation!

Variations on Chicken Chow Mein

When it comes to making Chicken Chow Mein your own, the possibilities are endless! Here are two delicious variations worth trying:

Add Shrimp for a Seafood Twist

If you're in the mood for a seafood twist, consider adding shrimp! Simply sauté peeled and deveined shrimp in place of, or alongside, the chicken for a delightful flavor enhancement. The natural sweetness of shrimp complements the savory chow mein sauce and makes for a delightful dinner surprise.

Substitute Chicken for Beef

Craving something a little heartier? Substitute the chicken with tender strips of beef. Marinate the beef for a few minutes in soy sauce for added depth of flavor. It's an easy way to elevate your chicken chow mein into a satisfying meal that will please any meat lover.

Explore more variations here and make this dish even more personal!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Chow Mein

Using Fresh Versus Cooked Noodles

For the best chicken chow mein, opt for fresh chow mein noodles if you can find them. They have a delightful texture and absorb the flavors from your sauce beautifully. If you're using dry or pre-cooked noodles, be sure to cook them al dente, as they’ll continue to soften in the stir-fry. Don't forget to rinse them under cold water post-cooking to halt the cooking process and stop them from sticking together.

Tips for Slicing Veggies

When it comes to veggies, uniformity is key! Slice your cabbage into thin strips and julienne your carrots for even cooking. This ensures every bite has a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Consider using a mandoline slicer for quick and uniform cuts. Is there a veggie you love that’s not in the recipe? Go ahead and flash-fry some bell peppers or snap peas to make your chicken chow mein even more colorful and nutritious!

For more tips on mastering your stir-fry skills, check out Serious Eats for professional insights!

Serving suggestions for Chicken Chow Mein

Serving with a Side Salad

Pair your chicken chow mein with a crisp side salad to lighten up the meal and add a refreshing crunch. A simple mix of mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light sesame vinaigrette perfectly complements the savory flavors of the chow mein. Not only will this add vibrant color to your plate, but it will also provide a fresh contrast to the dish's hearty elements.

Pairing with Homemade Spring Rolls

To elevate your dining experience, serve your chicken chow mein alongside homemade spring rolls. These delightful bites, filled with crisp veggies and perhaps some shrimp or chicken, make for a great finger food. Not only are they tasty, but they also add a fun interactive element to your meal. For an extra kick, pair them with a sweet chili dipping sauce!

Explore more about salads and spring rolls on Simply Recipes for additional serving ideas.

Time details for Chicken Chow Mein

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Getting organized is key! Spend a quarter of an hour prepping your ingredients and mixing the sauce for those delicious chicken chow mein noodles.

Cooking time: 20 minutes
With your ingredients ready, you'll be stir-frying and sautéing those flavors together in just 20 minutes.

Total time: 35 minutes
In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a scrumptious, homemade chicken chow mein that rivals your favorite takeout!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Chow Mein

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this delicious chicken chow mein delivers about 340 calories, making it a satisfying option without being overly indulgent. It's perfect for those who want a hearty meal without the guilt!

Protein Content

With 29 grams of protein per serving, this dish packs a nutritious punch! The chicken breast not only adds flavor but also provides essential amino acids, making it a great choice for muscle repair and growth.

Sodium Level

Keep your sodium intake in check with approximately 750 mg of sodium per serving. Using low-sodium soy sauce helps to reduce the overall sodium content while still delivering the delicious flavor you crave. For more information on sodium guidelines, check out the USDA's Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

By enjoying this chicken chow mein, you can savor a delicious meal while nourishing your body!

FAQs about Chicken Chow Mein

How can I make chicken chow mein healthier?
Making chicken chow mein healthier is quite simple! You can swap out chow mein noodles for whole grain or vegetable noodles, which add fiber and nutrients. Consider increasing the vegetable ratio, incorporating more fiber-rich options like bell peppers or snap peas. Using skinless chicken breast and limiting oil in the cooking process can also trim down the calories. For sauce alternatives, you might want to try a homemade low-sodium version, which can cut down on sodium intake but keep the flavor intact.

What can I use instead of chow mein noodles?
If you don’t have chow mein noodles on hand, there are plenty of delicious alternatives! You can use rice noodles for a gluten-free option or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb choice. Regular spaghetti or linguine can also work if you’re in a pinch, but keep in mind they will alter the traditional chow mein texture a bit.

Can I meal prep chicken chow mein?
Absolutely! Chicken chow mein is fantastic for meal prep. Simply cook the ingredients as per the recipe, let them cool, and portion them into airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, just add a splash of water or chicken broth to retain moisture and microwave or stir-fry on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

For more tips on meal prepping, you can check out this comprehensive guide.

Conclusion on Chicken Chow Mein

In summary, chicken chow mein is a delightful one-pan meal that can easily surpass your favorite takeout option. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a mouthwatering homemade sauce, you'll savor every bite. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress!