Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

by

Introduction:

Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese-American dish known for its stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables. This recipe combines savory flavors with a variety of textures, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, Chicken Chow Mein brings the taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant right to your kitchen.

Overview of the Recipe:

Chicken Chow Mein is a classic stir-fry dish featuring thinly sliced chicken breasts, chow mein noodles, and a mix of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for those who love a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

History and Origin:

Chow Mein, which translates to “fried noodles,” originated from China and has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine. The dish varies across regions, but the common elements include stir-fried noodles, meat, and vegetables. Chicken Chow Mein, in particular, is popular in the United States, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and savory sauce in every bite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 12 oz chow mein noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 4 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Noodles:
    • Follow the package instructions to cook the chow mein noodles. Drain them well and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
    • Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts and cook until they are browned and cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics:
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
    • Add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Cook the Vegetables:
    • Add the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and bean sprouts to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  5. Combine Everything:
    • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
    • Add the cooked chow mein noodles to the skillet.
    • Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
  6. Finish and Serve:
    • Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Serve hot.

Serving:

Serve the Chicken Chow Mein immediately while it’s hot. This dish is perfect on its own or can be accompanied by a light side dish, such as a fresh cucumber salad or steamed broccoli.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

  • Side Dishes: Steamed or stir-fried vegetables, spring rolls, or egg drop soup.
  • Beverages: Green tea, jasmine tea, or a refreshing glass of iced tea.
  • Garnish: Fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.

Variations of the Recipe:

  • Shrimp Chow Mein: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
  • Vegetarian Chow Mein: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, and broccoli.
  • Spicy Chow Mein: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Beef Chow Mein: Replace chicken with thinly sliced beef for a different flavor profile.

Health Benefits:

Chicken Chow Mein provides a balanced meal with protein from the chicken and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. The use of sesame oil adds healthy fats, while the soy-based sauces contribute to a savory taste without excessive calories.

Notes:

  • For the best texture, cook the noodles al dente as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the other ingredients.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the final cooking stage.
  • This dish is easily customizable based on your preferred vegetables and protein.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use other types of noodles? Yes, you can substitute chow mein noodles with other thin noodles like egg noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti in a pinch.
  2. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce, and substitute chow mein noodles with gluten-free rice noodles or another gluten-free option.
  3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and quickly stir-fry them together when ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
  4. What if I don’t have oyster sauce? If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with extra soy sauce and a touch of sugar for a similar flavor.

Conclusion:

Chicken Chow Mein is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory noodles in a delicious sauce. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special meal at home. With its rich history and comforting flavors, Chicken Chow Mein is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the vibrant and satisfying taste of homemade Chicken Chow Mein, and feel free to experiment with the variations and serving suggestions to make it your own

Leave a Comment