If you're craving a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce. This classic Chinese dish features tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles, all tossed in a savory, homemade chow mein sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. It's a one-pan wonder that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party. With its vibrant colors and delightful textures, this chow mein will become a favorite in your household!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavor-Packed Sauce: The homemade chow mein sauce is the star of the dish, adding depth and richness.
- Customizable: Easily swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu, and add your favorite vegetables.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one pan.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients List
To make Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chow Mein:
- 8 oz chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chow Mein Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Chow Mein Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, ground ginger, black pepper, and water until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic, bell peppers, and shredded carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and add the bean sprouts and cooked chow mein noodles. Pour the chow mein sauce over the top, tossing everything together to coat evenly.
- Heat Through: Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Variations & Substitutions
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Vegetable Mix: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms based on your preference.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Allow the chow mein to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles. You can also microwave individual servings for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, simply add it to the skillet when you combine the ingredients, and heat through.
What if I can’t find chow mein noodles?
You can substitute chow mein noodles with other types of noodles, such as lo mein or even spaghetti in a pinch.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The chow mein sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
Conclusion
Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. With its quick preparation time and customizable ingredients, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this chow mein is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you make in the comments! For more delicious recipes, visit https://eldralys.com/ and discover more culinary adventures waiting for you. Enjoy your cooking!
