Chicken Chow Mein: The Perfect Homemade Takeout Recipe

Chicken Chow Mein is a beloved Chinese takeout dish that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly stir-fried noodles, it’s all brought together by an irresistible chow mein sauce. This savory sauce, a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, coats every bite in rich, umami goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is both quick to prepare and utterly satisfying.

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot (for boiling noodles)
• Wok or large skillet
• Tongs or spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Chow Mein:

• 8 oz chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red or green)
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

For the Ultimate Chow Mein Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the chow mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chow Mein Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, chicken broth (or water), sugar, and white pepper (if using).
2. Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. In the same wok, add another splash of oil if needed.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

1. Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables.
2. Add the cooked noodles to the wok, then pour the chow mein sauce over the top.
3. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together, ensuring that the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the wok from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.
2. Serve the Chicken Chow Mein hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Noodles: If you can’t find chow mein noodles, substitute with thin egg noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch.
• Protein: Swap chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu to suit your preferences.
• Vegetables: Add snap peas, baby corn, or bok choy for extra crunch and variety.

This Chicken Chow Mein recipe delivers takeout-style flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the ultimate chow mein sauce makes this dish a family favorite. Perfectly stir-fried and bursting with umami, it’s a meal you’ll turn to time and time again.