Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also features tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and perfectly cooked chow mein noodles, all tossed in a delicious homemade sauce. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this one-pan wonder will impress your guests with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade chow mein sauce elevates the dish with a rich, savory flavor that beats any takeout version.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, this dish is a healthier choice compared to traditional fast food.
• One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan—ideal for meal prep or a quick dinner solution.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, having the right tools will ensure a smooth process. Gather these essential items to make your Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large frying pan: A wok allows for even heat distribution and makes stir-frying easy, helping to achieve that perfect texture in your noodles and veggies.
• Whisk: This tool is essential for combining sauces smoothly, ensuring no lumps when mixing the ingredients.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

Protein & Noodles

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
• 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)

Vegetables

• 2 cups cabbage
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• 1/2 batch green onions
• 2 garlic cloves

Sauces & Seasonings

• 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

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, use a whisk to combine:
1. Oyster sauce
2. Granulated sugar
3. Sesame oil
4. Soy sauce
5. Chicken broth
6. Cornstarch

Set aside once well mixed.

Step 2: Cook Noodles

Cook your chow mein noodles according to package instructions:
1. Drain and rinse them with cold water.
2. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Heat a large wok or pan over medium heat:
1. Add oil.
2. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized strips.
3. Cook chicken in oil until golden brown.
4. Remove chicken strips from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pan:
1. Add julienned carrots, chopped cabbage, and pressed garlic.
2. Sauté for a few minutes until veggies soften slightly and cabbage becomes translucent.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken and cooked noodles back into the pan:
1. Pour prepared sauce over all ingredients.
2. Stir well and cook together for another 2 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish your chow mein with chopped green onions:
– Serve hot straight from the pan for an enjoyable dining experience!

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Serving Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to suit your taste.

Enjoy it Fresh

• Serve hot: For the best flavor, serve your chicken chow mein immediately after cooking while it’s still steaming.
• Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Pair with a Salad

• Simple cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad complements the savory elements of chow mein.
• Asian slaw: A tangy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing adds crunch and balance.

Host a Family Feast

• Family-style serving: Place the chow mein in a large bowl and let everyone serve themselves for a communal dining experience.
• Offer multiple sauces: Provide additional sauces like soy sauce or chili garlic sauce for guests to customize their plates.

How to Perfect Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Perfecting your Chicken Chow Mein requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
• Cook noodles correctly: Follow the package instructions closely to avoid overcooking or undercooking your chow mein noodles.
• High heat cooking: Stir-frying at high heat helps achieve that classic wok flavor and texture.
• Adjust sauce to taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients based on your preference for sweetness or saltiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Chicken Chow Mein.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls add crunch and are perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce.
2. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken make an excellent complement to chow mein.
3. Chinese Broccoli: Lightly steamed Chinese broccoli tossed with garlic provides a nutritious side that balances flavors.
4. Fried Rice: Flavorful vegetable fried rice offers another delicious carb option alongside your chow mein.
5. Miso Soup: A light miso soup serves as a warm starter that complements the richness of chow mein.
6. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt is a healthy snack that adds protein to your meal.
7. Crispy Tofu Bites: Golden tofu bites offer a crunchy texture and are great for dipping in soy sauce.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of chicken chow mein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Using overcooked noodles: Overcooked chow mein noodles turn mushy and lose texture. Follow package instructions for perfect al dente noodles.
• Skipping the sauce preparation: Neglecting to mix your sauce ingredients beforehand can lead to uneven flavor. Always whisk together the sauce before adding it to the pan.
• Crowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once prevents even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain heat and achieve that beautiful stir-fry effect.
• Not using fresh veggies: Stale or old vegetables won’t provide the crunch you desire. Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best taste and texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish as you cook and adjust seasonings as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to customize flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chow mein to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Divide into portions for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking; cook until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce.

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken chow mein ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

Feel free to use beef, turkey, or even tofu as a protein alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I add more vegetables to my Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving takeout flavors at home. Give it a try!