Name: Chicken Chow Mein
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz chow mein stir-fry noodles (see note); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; ½ cup water; 1 pound chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts (thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces); 2 teaspoons cornstarch; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1½ tablespoons vegetable oil (divided); ¼ cup vegetable oil (divided); 3 cups thinly sliced green cabbage (from 1 small cabbage); 2 stalks celery (very thinly sliced); 2 cups shredded carrots; 6 cloves scallions (dark and light green parts, cut into 1-in (2.5-cm) pieces); 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Introduction to Chicken Chow Mein

Chicken Chow Mein is more than just a delicious dish; it’s a weeknight superhero! With a delightful balance of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce, this recipe can transform your busy evenings into a culinary adventure. Who wouldn’t want to whip up a meal that’s not only full of flavor but also comes together in just about 40 minutes?

What Makes Chicken Chow Mein a Weeknight Favorite?

There are a few reasons why Chicken Chow Mein stands out in the lineup of quick dinners. First, it’s a one-pan wonder—less mess means more time to relax after a long day. Secondly, it’s endlessly customizable. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what's in your fridge or your dietary preferences! According to a study from the Food and Agriculture Organization, using seasonal vegetables not only enhances the taste but also supports local farmers.

Moreover, this dish reflects the heart of Asian cuisine with its rich flavors and aroma, making it comforting yet invigorating. Plus, it packs a nutritious punch, combining protein, fiber, and essential vitamins—all necessary for a balanced diet.

Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

When diving into the delightful world of Chicken Chow Mein, it’s crucial to gather the right ingredients to make your dish stand out. Here’s a straightforward list to get you started:

Chow mein stir-fry noodles (12 oz)
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons) for that umami kick
Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons) adds richness
Sesame oil (1 tablespoon) for a hint of nuttiness
Chicken tenderloins or breasts (1 pound), thinly sliced
Cornstarch (2 teaspoons) to coat the chicken
Vegetable oil (1½ tablespoons + ¼ cup) for cooking
Green cabbage (3 cups, thinly sliced)
Celery (2 stalks, very thinly sliced)
Shredded carrots (2 cups) for sweetness
Scallions (6, cut into 1-inch pieces)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) to add depth of flavor

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

Want to elevate your Chicken Chow Mein even further? Consider adding some optional ingredients:

Bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch
Bean sprouts for texture
Ginger, freshly grated, adds warmth
Snow peas for a sweet snap
Sesame seeds for a finishing touch

With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating a satisfying and hearty meal! For more tips on ingredient selection, check out resources like Serious Eats or The Kitchn.

Step-by-step preparation of Chicken Chow Mein

Making Chicken Chow Mein at home is not only satisfying but also a great way to bring the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout to your kitchen. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you'll be enjoying a delicious, hearty meal in no time!

Boil the chow mein noodles

Start by boiling a large pot of water. When it reaches a rolling boil, add your chow mein noodles (12 oz) and let them cook. To avoid overcooking, aim for them to be very al dente—this usually means just 2½ minutes for the noodles I use; you might need to adjust based on the package instructions. After draining them, rinse the noodles in cold water to halt the cooking process. This helps maintain their texture for stir-frying later.

Prepare the sauce

While the noodles are cooking, it's time to whip up a quick sauce that will bring everything together. In a medium bowl, combine:

2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ cup water

Whisk these ingredients until well blended. This savory sauce not only enhances the dish's flavor but also ensures that each bite is infused with deliciousness.

Prep the chicken

In another medium bowl, take your sliced chicken (1 pound). Add 1½ tablespoons of the sauce you just made, along with 2 teaspoons of cornstarch and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. This step is key because the cornstarch helps give the chicken a supple texture when cooked.

Cook the chicken

Heat 1½ tablespoons of vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes, or until it's just cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This ensures that your chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

Sauté the vegetables

In the same skillet, add an additional ¼ cup of vegetable oil and toss in your vegetables bit by bit:

3 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
2 stalks of thinly sliced celery
2 cups shredded carrots
6 chopped scallions
2 cloves of minced garlic

Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes, or until the veggies soften and start to brown slightly. This step adds a lovely crunch and a warm, inviting aroma to your dish.

Combine and stir-fry everything together

Now for the fun part! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained noodles and the remaining sauce. Stir-fry everything together for about a minute, allowing the noodles to absorb the flavor-packed sauce. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once everything is combined and heated through, your vibrant Chicken Chow Mein is ready to serve!

This recipe not only offers a delightful culinary experience but also provides a health-conscious alternative to takeout. For more delicious inspiration, why not explore this extensive guide on noodle dishes that can diversify your meals even more? Happy cooking!

Variations on Chicken Chow Mein

Fun Vegetable Variations

Chicken Chow Mein is versatile—feel free to customize the vegetable mix! Try adding bell peppers for sweetness, snow peas for a delightful crunch, or bok choy for a touch of earthiness. You can even stir in colorful broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition. The great part about this dish is its flexibility, allowing you to use whatever is in season or in your fridge!

Protein Options for Chicken Chow Mein

While our recipe highlights chicken, don’t hesitate to get creative with the protein. Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist, or toss in some tofu for a hearty vegetarian alternative. If you crave something different, try using turkey bacon or even chicken ham for a unique flavor profile. Mixing proteins can elevate your Chicken Chow Mein experience and keep your meals exciting!

Cooking tips and notes for Chicken Chow Mein

Tips for cooking noodles perfectly

To ensure your noodles turn out just right for your Chicken Chow Mein, cook them until they’re very al dente. The key is to boil them for a shorter time than the package recommends, typically around 2½ minutes instead of the standard 3 minutes. This helps prevent overcooking, as they’ll continue to soften when stir-fried. After draining, rinse the noodles with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them from clumping together.

Notes on storing leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Chicken Chow Mein, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a splash of water in the pan can help revive the dish’s moisture. For longer-lasting options, consider freezing individual portions for quick weeknight meals. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Enjoy a taste of takeout right at home!

Serving suggestions for Chicken Chow Mein

What to serve alongside Chicken Chow Mein

While Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful standalone dish, pairing it with complementary flavors can elevate the meal. Consider serving it with a side of crispy spring rolls or dumplings for an authentic touch. A simple cucumber salad provides a refreshing crunch that balances the savory notes of the chow mein.

Perfect pairings and sides

To complete your dining experience, whip up a light fruit salad or some steamed bok choy drizzled with soy sauce. You might also explore serving it with a delicate miso soup, which adds warmth and depth. If you’re in the mood for a beverage, a chilled jasmine tea or even lemonade pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Time breakdown for Chicken Chow Mein

Preparation time

Getting ready for your Chicken Chow Mein will take approximately 25 minutes. This includes chopping your vegetables and marinating the chicken, setting you up for a quick and flavorful meal.

Cooking time

Once everything is prepped, you’ll need just 15 minutes to cook your dish. The quick stir-frying method allows all those delicious flavors to meld together in no time.

Total time

In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a tasty Chicken Chow Mein ready to serve. Perfect for weeknight dinners! For more tips on meal prep, check out helpful guides like those on Eating Well or BBC Good Food.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Chow Mein

Calories per Serving

Enjoy your Chicken Chow Mein guilt-free, with approximately 890 calories per serving. Eating a balanced meal can help you stay energized throughout the day!

Protein Content

This dish packs a protein punch with 31 grams per serving, thanks to the tender chicken. It's ideal for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a flavorful meal.

Sodium Levels

Be mindful of sodium, as each serving contains 1287 mg. While it's important to enjoy your meal, balancing sodium intake with lower-sodium options or cutting back on soy sauce can promote better health. For more tips on managing sodium, check out sources like the American Heart Association.

By understanding the nutritional profile of your Chicken Chow Mein, you can make informed choices while savoring every bite!

FAQs about Chicken Chow Mein

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chicken Chow Mein can be prepped in advance, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights. You can cook and store the chicken and vegetables separately in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply stir-fry everything together to heat through. You might want to slightly undercook the veggies during the initial prep to keep them crisp when you reheat.

What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?

If you can’t find chow mein noodles, don’t worry! You can easily use alternatives like yakisoba, ramen, or even spaghetti. These options maintain a delicious texture and flavor in your Chicken Chow Mein. Just ensure to cook them according to package directions to achieve that perfect bite.

Is Chicken Chow Mein healthy?

Chicken Chow Mein can be part of a balanced diet, especially if you use lean chicken and load up on veggies. With ingredients like cabbage, celery, and carrots, you're getting a variety of nutrients. To make it even healthier, consider reducing the oil and soy sauce or serving it with a side of salad. For more detailed nutritional insights, check out Healthline for tips on making healthier Asian-inspired dishes.

Conclusion on Chicken Chow Mein

Quick recap of why Chicken Chow Mein is perfect for busy nights

In summary, Chicken Chow Mein is your go-to dish for quick weeknight meals. With minimal prep and cook time, this flavorful one-pan recipe delivers a satisfying dinner that your whole family will love. Try it tonight for a hassle-free, delicious experience!