Indulge in a delightful plate of chicken Chow Mein, a cherished pick from your Chinese food orders. Crafted in a single skillet, this dish is a hearty mix of chicken, an array of vegetables, traditional chow Mein noodles, all brought together with a superior homemade chow Mein sauce. Not to mention, it’s a healthier alternative to your usual takeout.
Hello! I’m Emily, the mind behind Tasty Grove. Followers of my blog know too well my fondness for recipes that are straightforward, demand minimal ingredients, and make cleanup a breeze. I’m thrilled to present to you my chicken chow mein recipe, embodying all these qualities!
Chicken Chow Mein Explained Originating from Chinese cuisine, chow mein consists of egg noodles combined with stir-fried vegetables. We prefer chicken as our protein, though you’re welcome to explore with other meats or tofu. The cooking technique gives the noodles a delightful crispiness, enhanced by a delicious sauce. Chow mein is your go-to for a hassle-free, low-maintenance cooking experience.
The sauce, rich and dark, is what gives chow mein its distinctive taste. Striking the right note between sweet and savory, it ensures your chopsticks are always busy.
Ingredient Breakdown for Chow Mein:
- Chow Mein Noodles: These noodles, a blend of wheat and egg, are akin to Italian pasta in texture and are a crucial element. While dry noodles can be found in the Asian section of many supermarkets, pre-cooked options, if available, simplify the cooking process even more.
- Vegetables: A classic mix includes carrots, cabbage, green onions, and bean sprouts, but feel free to substitute or add vegetables like bok choy, celery, broccoli, spinach, kale, or baby corn, tailoring the dish to your preference or fridge contents.
- Proteins: High-quality chicken breast slices work best for chow mein, but beef, shrimp, or pork are viable substitutes. For a vegetarian version, consider using vegetable broth and tofu.
Crafting the Ultimate Chow Mein Sauce:
The homemade sauce is a game-changer, combining soy sauce, light sesame oil, oyster sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and chicken broth to create the classic chow mein flavor profile.
Chow Mein Preparation Steps:
- Mix the chow mein sauce components (oyster sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch) in a bowl and set aside.
- Cook the noodles as per the package’s instructions and keep them aside.
- In a sizeable wok or pan, cook the chicken in a little oil until golden. Remove and keep aside.
- Sauté carrots, cabbage, and garlic in the pan for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
- Return the chicken to the pan, add the noodles, and then the sauce, mixing everything well for about 2 minutes to evenly coat with the sauce.
- Stir in the chopped green onions, take off the heat, and serve while hot.
This homemade chow mein recipe is not only simple but incredibly satisfying, making it a surefire addition to your regular dinner lineup for those who cherish noodles and Chinese flavors.
Note:
When using cooked Chow Mein Noodles, it should measure to about 1lb.