Howdy, culinary adventurers! Today, we’re taking a journey to explore a beloved Asian-American classic: Chicken Chow Mein. This delightful dish boasts crispy noodles, succulent chicken, and a medley of vibrant veggies, all tossed in an irresistibly flavorful sauce. It’s time to elevate your stir-fry game with this easy, delicious, and entirely customizable recipe.

 

WHAT IS CHICKEN CHOW MEIN?

Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese-inspired dish that is prevalent in American Chinese cuisine. The term ‘Chow Mein’ translates to ‘stir-fried noodles,’ which is precisely what this dish offers. With sautéed chicken and vegetables tossed with the noodles, this meal is the perfect blend of textures and flavors.

 

 

What type of noodles to use

Traditional chow mein noodles are thin, wheat-based noodles that crisp up beautifully in the pan. However, you can also use other types of noodles such as ramen, egg noodles, or even spaghetti in a pinch.

 

 

Vegetables and the alternative

Chicken Chow Mein typically features bell peppers, cabbage, and bean sprouts. Feel free to customize this mix to suit your preferences, or based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, and carrots also make great additions.

 

 

How to cook chicken chow mein

Cooking Chicken Chow Mein involves stir-frying the chicken and veggies, boiling the noodles, and then combining everything with the spectacular chow mein sauce.

 

 

What is the difference between chicken chow mein and lo mein?

The primary difference lies in the preparation of the noodles. Chow Mein noodles are typically stir-fried to a crisp texture, while Lo Mein noodles are boiled and retain a soft texture. The dishes also often feature different sauces and ingredients.

 

 

What is the sauce in chow mein made of?

The secret to any delicious Chow Mein dish lies in its sauce. Typically, it is a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, allowing it to coat the noodles, chicken, and vegetables beautifully.

 

 

With those questions answered, let’s delve into the details of this Chicken Chow Mein recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Chow Mein:

1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2. 2 cups chow mein noodles
3. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4. 1 bell pepper, sliced
5. 1 cup cabbage, shredded
6. 1 cup bean sprouts

 

For the Sauce:

1. 3 tablespoons soy sauce
2. 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
3. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
4. 1 tablespoon sugar
5. 1 tablespoon cornstarch

 

 

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.
2. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Add the bell pepper and cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until they begin to soften. Then, add the bean sprouts and cook for another minute.
5. Push the chicken and vegetables to the sides of the pan, creating a well in the center. Pour the sauce into the well and let it heat up until it begins to thicken.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss everything together, ensuring that the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are all coated in the sauce.
7. Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade Chicken Chow Mein!

 

Final thoughts

Chicken Chow Mein is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be tailored to taste and is sure to impress at the dinner table. Remember, the best part of cooking at home is making the recipe your own. Experiment, enjoy, and happy cooking!