Chicken chow mein is a delightful dish that marries the flavors of stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and tender chicken, resulting in a symphony of tastes and textures. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this dish has found its place in American hearts due to its versatility and deliciousness. It’s a perfect meal for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something quick yet flavorful. Additionally, making chow mein at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier version than typical takeout options.
Chicken chow mein pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a more indulgent meal. A refreshing cucumber salad or some simple bok choy sautéed in garlic and soy sauce would complement the flavors beautifully. For those who enjoy a little extra heat, a side of spicy Szechuan green beans might be just the thing to round out your meal.
Chicken Chow Mein
Servings: 4
Ingredients
8 oz chow mein noodles
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
3. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion, bell pepper, carrots, and cabbage, stir-frying for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for another minute until fragrant.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, then pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and heated through.
7. Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top, give it one final toss, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade chicken chow mein!
Variations & Tips
For a different spin on this classic dish, consider using shrimp or beef instead of chicken. Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables like broccoli and snap peas. Adding a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes can bring some heat for those who like their chow mein spicy. Lastly, for a gluten-free version, ensure that you use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles.
