If you’re craving a quick, flavorful dish that’s packed with texture and vibrant colors, you’ve got to try this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe. It brings together tender slices of chicken, crisp Chinese cabbage, and perfectly cooked egg noodles all coated in a savory stir-fry sauce that tastes like it’s straight from your favorite takeout spot. What makes this recipe so special is how accessible the ingredients are and how wonderfully they blend to create a comforting, yet fresh meal that you can whip up in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a hungry family, this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to make your Chicken Chow Mein Recipe come alive. Each component adds its own touch, from the chewy noodles to the crunchy veggies and flavorful chicken, creating a balanced and unforgettable dish.
- 200 g/7oz fresh chow mein egg noodles: The perfect chewy base that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
- 2 cups Chinese cabbage, shredded: Adds a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness to lighten the dish.
- 1 cup carrot, shredded: Provides a pop of color and a gentle, natural sweetness.
- 100 g/4oz chicken, sliced against the grain: Tender protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- 2 shallot/scallion stems, cut into 2″/4cm slices: Offers a mild oniony aroma and a bit of bite to finish the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the stir-fry with its unmistakable aromatic punch.
- 1 1/2 tbsp oil: Essential for stirring up flavor and ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- ¼ cup Real Chinese All Purpose Stir Fry Sauce: The secret sauce that ties everything together with a perfect balance of salty and savory.
- ½ cup water: Helps the sauce thin out just right and allows it to coat the ingredients beautifully.
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the noodles
Start by cooking the fresh chow mein egg noodles following the package instructions. This is a vital step because perfectly cooked noodles are the foundation of the dish — not too soft, not too firm, just right to absorb the stir-fry sauce later on.
Step 2: Sauté the garlic and chicken
Heat your oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and quickly sauté it for about 10 seconds until fragrant — watch it closely because garlic can burn fast! Then, add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until the pieces are just cooked through and develop a nice golden brown color. This step layers a beautiful depth of flavor into your dish.
Step 3: Add the veggies and sauce
Throw in the shredded Chinese cabbage and carrot, tossing them quickly in the wok for about 30 seconds—this keeps them crisp and vibrant. Pour in the Real Chinese All Purpose Stir Fry Sauce along with the half cup of water, and stir everything so the sauce starts to thicken and perfectly coats the veggies and chicken. This blend creates the deliciously saucy but not soggy texture that makes this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe irresistible.
Step 4: Combine noodles and finish with scallions
Add the cooked chow mein noodles and scallion slices to the pan, then toss everything thoroughly to ensure every noodle is coated in that mouthwatering sauce. Once everything is combined and heated through, your dish is ready to be served immediately while still piping hot and fresh.
How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chicken Chow Mein Recipe even further, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or fresh chopped cilantro on top. These simple garnishes add a delightful crunch and fresh herbal note that make the presentation pop and the flavors brighter.
Side Dishes
This dish partners wonderfully with light Asian-inspired sides like steamed dumplings or a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. These options complement the rich, savory notes of the chow mein without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chicken Chow Mein Recipe inside hollowed-out bell peppers or crispy wonton cups. Not only does this make for a visually stunning dish when guests arrive, but it also offers a new texture dimension and a delightful surprise in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Chicken Chow Mein Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles might absorb some sauce and soften, but a quick stir-fry in a hot pan or microwave can help revive their texture.
Freezing
Frozen leftovers are not ideal because the noodles tend to get mushy after thawing. However, if you want to freeze, place your chow mein in a freezer-safe container and use it within a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Chicken Chow Mein Recipe is in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil to refresh the noodles and keep the veggies crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the original texture, but if you must, use short bursts at medium heat and stir regularly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This Chicken Chow Mein Recipe works beautifully with beef, pork, or even shrimp. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly and cook it thoroughly for the best texture and flavor.
Is it okay to use dried noodles instead of fresh?
You can substitute dried chow mein or even spaghetti noodles, but fresh egg noodles offer the best chewy texture that’s classic in chow mein dishes. If using dried noodles, cook them according to the package instructions and be careful not to overcook.
What can I use if I don’t have Real Chinese All Purpose Stir Fry Sauce?
If you don’t have that specific sauce, a simple mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, a pinch of sugar, and a little cornstarch mixed with water can work well as a homemade alternative to get a similar savory and thickened finish.
How do I make the vegetables crunchy but cooked?
The key is to add the vegetables late in the cooking process and stir-fry them quickly on high heat. This way, they retain their bright color and crunchy texture instead of becoming soft and soggy.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or extra veggies like mushrooms and snap peas, and use a vegetarian stir-fry sauce. The technique remains the same, and it will still be delicious and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re just as excited as I am to dive into this Chicken Chow Mein Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration in every bite but is easy enough to make any night of the week. Give it a go, and you might find it turning into your new favorite hassle-free dinner that’s bursting with flavors, textures, and the comforting taste of home-cooked goodness.
Print
Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Chicken Chow Mein recipe features tender slices of chicken stir-fried with fresh chow mein egg noodles, crisp Chinese cabbage, and shredded carrots, all coated in a savory Chinese all-purpose stir fry sauce. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this dish makes a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 200 g/7 oz fresh chow mein egg noodles
Vegetables
- 2 cups Chinese cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrot, shredded
- 2 shallot/scallion stems, cut into 2″/4 cm slices
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Protein
- 100 g/4 oz chicken (or beef or pork), sliced against the grain
Sauces and Oils
- 1 1/2 tbsp oil (vegetable or peanut oil recommended for stir-frying)
- 1/4 cup Real Chinese All Purpose Stir Fry Sauce
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the fresh chow mein egg noodles according to the packet instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and chicken: Heat the oil in a wok over high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté quickly for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until it is just cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the shredded Chinese cabbage and shredded carrot to the wok. Stir-fry for 30 seconds to combine and soften slightly. Then pour in the Real Chinese All Purpose Stir Fry Sauce along with the water. Let it cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the sauce to start thickening and coat the vegetables.
- Toss noodles and finish: Add the cooked noodles and sliced shallots/scallion stems to the wok. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the noodles and vegetables evenly with the sauce. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken for beef or pork depending on your preference.
- Using fresh chow mein noodles provides the best texture, but dried noodles can be used if rehydrated properly.
- Adjust the amount of stir fry sauce depending on your taste preference for saltiness and flavor intensity.
- To increase the dish’s nutrition, you can add more vegetables like bell peppers or bean sprouts.
- Ensure high heat when stir-frying to achieve that classic wok-seared flavor and avoid steaming the ingredients.
