Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce is a fantastic homemade alternative to takeout. This dish is deliciously satisfying, featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked chow mein noodles. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or any occasion where you crave a flavorful meal without the fuss. The homemade chow mein sauce takes this dish to the next level, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Healthier Option: Home-cooked means you can control ingredients and make healthier choices without sacrificing taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Before you start making Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, ensure you have everything ready.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large frying pan: Ideal for stir-frying as it allows even heat distribution and plenty of space for tossing ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for preparing sauces and mixing ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine sauces smoothly for a perfectly blended taste.

Ingredients

To make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)

For the Noodles

• 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)

For the Vegetables

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

For the Sauce

• 6 tbsp oyster sauce
• 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. 6 tbsp oyster sauce
2. 3 tbsp granulated sugar
3. 3 tbsp light sesame oil
4. 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
5. 1/2 cup chicken broth
6. 1 tbsp corn starch

Set aside once combined.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook your chow mein noodles according to package instructions:
1. Drain them after cooking.
2. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
3. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large wok or pan over medium heat:
1. Add 3 tbsp of oil.
2. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips.
3. Cook until golden brown, then remove 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 and cabbage becomes slightly translucent.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Return chicken and noodles back into the pan:
1. Pour sauce over everything.
2. Continue cooking all ingredients together for another 2 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your chow mein with chopped green onions:
– Serve hot straight from the pan for maximum flavor!

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

Chicken chow mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro or parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs over your chow mein for an added burst of flavor and freshness.

Pair with Crispy Spring Rolls

• Vegetable spring rolls: These crispy delights make a great appetizer, complementing the savory noodles beautifully.

Add a Side Salad

• Asian-inspired salad: A light salad with mixed greens, carrots, and sesame dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm noodles.

Top with Sesame Seeds

• Toasted sesame seeds: Garnish your chow mein with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and a nutty flavor.

Serve in Lettuce Wraps

• Lettuce wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fun wraps filled with chow mein, making it a hands-on dining experience.

Drizzle Extra Sauce

• Extra chow mein sauce: Serve additional sauce on the side for those who love more flavor or want to dip their bites.

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

Achieving the perfect chicken chow mein requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant color and nutrition to your dish.
• Cook noodles al dente: Ensure your chow mein noodles are cooked just right; they should be firm but tender, allowing them to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Preheat your pan: A hot pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desired golden-brown color on your chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and allows for better browning of ingredients.
• Taste as you go: Adjust flavors while cooking by tasting. You can always add more soy sauce or sugar if needed.
• Garnish before serving: Adding garnishes like green onions just before serving keeps them fresh and vibrant.

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

Pairing side dishes with chicken chow mein enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a nice crunch and pairs well with the savory flavors of chow mein.
2. Fried Rice: A classic side that complements chow mein perfectly, adding variety to your meal.
3. Egg Drop Soup: This light soup makes an excellent starter, warming up your taste buds before digging into the main dish.
4. Sautéed Snow Peas: Quick and easy, sautéed snow peas bring a sweet crunch that balances nicely with the chow mein.
5. Vegetable Dumplings: Soft or crispy dumplings filled with veggies add an exciting touch alongside your noodles.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to the warm noodles.
7. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds depth and an earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken chow mein.
8. Chili Garlic Edamame: Spicy edamame pods serve as a tasty finger food that can spice up your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, even small errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the sauce prep: Not preparing the sauce in advance can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Always whisk together your sauce ingredients before cooking.

• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking your chow mein noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions for perfect texture.

• Not using enough oil: A well-oiled pan is crucial for preventing sticking and achieving that perfect stir-fry finish. Make sure to use sufficient oil when cooking.

• Cutting veggies too large: Vegetables cut into large pieces can take longer to cook and may not blend well with the noodles. Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces.

• Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes like green onions add freshness and flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle them on top before serving!

• Using low-quality chicken: The quality of chicken affects the dish’s taste. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breast for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container.
• It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Place cooled chow mein in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chow mein in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chow mein in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth to a pan over medium heat. Stir in chow mein and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce:

How do I make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use different vegetables in my Chicken Chow Mein?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your chow mein by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms based on your preferences.

What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?

Leftover Chicken Chow Mein should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?

Yes! You can freeze it for up to two months. Just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

What can I serve with Chicken Chow Mein?

Chicken Chow Mein pairs well with steamed rice or spring rolls for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare at home. It’s versatile enough that you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple it is to create a delicious one-pan dinner that rivals any takeout!