Chicken Chow Mein with The Best Chow Mein Sauce

Ever get that craving for takeout, but you’re let down when it arrives? Maybe it’s too greasy, or the sauce is just blah. That’s where this recipe comes in! Chow Mein is a stir-fried noodle dish, and it has tons of ways to make it. From beef to shrimp, the possibilities feel endless! This version? Chicken Chow Mein, with a sauce so good, you’ll ditch the delivery apps for good. Get ready to learn how to make the best Chow Mein ever. This article will show you a foolproof recipe and tips for success.

Why This Chicken Chow Mein Recipe Works

Making Chow Mein at home is easier than you think, and it’s so worth it. You control what goes in it, so it is healthier than takeout. This recipe is super customizable, and tastes way better than anything you can order. You can swap out ingredients, use less salt, or add more veggies. It’s your Chow Mein, make it your way!

Fresh Ingredients Matter

Fresh ingredients are key to amazing flavor and texture in your Chow Mein. Imagine biting into crisp veggies and tender chicken. It’s a lot better than the mushy stuff from some restaurants. If you can’t find fresh noodles, dried ones work too. Just cook them al dente, so they aren’t too soft.

Actionable Tip: When buying fresh noodles, look for ones that are pale in color and not sticky. They should smell fresh, not sour.

The Secret’s in the Sauce

A great Chow Mein sauce takes your dish from good to amazing. It ties all the flavors together. Many sauces are too salty or just plain boring. This recipe gives you a balanced, flavorful sauce that’s not too overpowering. It complements the chicken and veggies perfectly.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Chow Mein

Here’s what you need to make the best Chicken Chow Mein. Specific brands aren’t too important, but good quality ingredients will shine through. You’ll need ingredients for the chicken, noodles, veggies, and of course, the sauce. Don’t worry, it’s all easy to find.

Chicken and Marinade

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
2 tablespoons soy sauce.
1 tablespoon cornstarch.

1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar or dry sherry.
1 teaspoon sesame oil.
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger.

1/4 teaspoon white pepper.

Use chicken thighs for juicier flavor, but breasts work too. Marinating the chicken makes it tender and gives it flavor. Soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and white pepper will help to make the taste amazing.

Noodles and Vegetables

1 pound fresh Chow Mein noodles (or dried).

1 tablespoon oil.
1 cup shredded cabbage.
1 cup sliced carrots.

1/2 cup sliced celery.
1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color).
1/4 cup sliced green onions.

2 cloves garlic, minced.
1 teaspoon grated ginger.

Chow Mein noodles come in different thicknesses. Thinner noodles cook faster. Cabbage, carrots, celery, and bell peppers add a lot of crunch and nutrients. Feel free to add other veggies you like, such as snow peas or bok choy.

Chow Mein Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce.
2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional, but recommended).
1 tablespoon brown sugar.

1 tablespoon cornstarch.
1/2 cup chicken broth.
1 teaspoon sesame oil.

1/4 teaspoon white pepper.

Oyster sauce adds a great depth of flavor. Brown sugar balances the saltiness. Cornstarch thickens the sauce. Chicken broth adds moisture. Sesame oil gives it a nutty aroma. White pepper adds a little kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Chow Mein

Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect Chicken Chow Mein every time. It’s easy, just take your time and don’t rush. Visual cues aren’t required since the steps are simple.

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables

Cut the chicken into small, even-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly.
In a bowl, mix the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and white pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Wash and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.

Cooking the Chow Mein

Cook the Chow Mein noodles according to package directions. They should be al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil.
Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the cabbage, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, chicken broth, sesame oil, and white pepper.

Pour the sauce over the vegetables and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken and noodles to the pan. Toss everything together to coat with the sauce.
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chow Mein Every Time

Want to take your Chow Mein to the next level? Here’s how. These tips will make sure you have success every single time.

Mastering the Stir-Fry

High heat and constant stirring are key to a good stir-fry. This makes sure the vegetables cook quickly but still stay crisp. It also prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan.

Actionable Tip: Get your wok or pan ripping hot before adding any ingredients. A little bit of smoke is okay, just be careful not to burn anything.

Customizing Your Chow Mein

This recipe is easy to change up. Don’t like chicken? Use shrimp or tofu. Want more spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s all about making it your own.

Real-world Example: Try a vegetarian version. Just swap the chicken for tofu. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Then, cube it and stir-fry until golden brown. It’s a great way to get more protein.

Serving and Storing Chicken Chow Mein

Serve your Chow Mein hot, right after cooking. It tastes best when it’s fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Reheating Instructions

The best way to reheat Chow Mein is in a skillet. This helps keep the noodles from getting mushy. You can also microwave it, but the texture won’t be as good.

Actionable Tip: When reheating in the microwave, add a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.

Serving Suggestions

Chow Mein is great on its own, but you can make it a meal with sides. Egg rolls or spring rolls are a good choice. A simple side salad also works well.

Conclusion

Making Chicken Chow Mein at home is easier than you thought. This recipe gives you a tasty sauce and lets you customize it. You control the ingredients, so it’s healthier than takeout. Give this recipe a try. You’ll love how easy and yummy it is. Homemade Chicken Chow Mein is easy, delicious, and customizable.