Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce is an incredibly delicious dish that brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and savory noodles, this meal will satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, the homemade chow mein sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chicken chow mein comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade chow mein sauce is rich and savory, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables based on what you have in your fridge.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a great family meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large pan: A wok allows for even cooking and easy tossing of ingredients, ensuring everything cooks perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the sauce ingredients quickly and efficiently.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate the sauce ingredients thoroughly for a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)

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

For the Noodles and Veggies

• 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)
• 2 cups cabbage
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• 1/2 batch green onions
• 2 garlic cloves

For Cooking

• 3 tbsp oil

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 oyster sauce, granulated sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook your chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Once done, drain them and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large wok or pan over medium heat with olive oil. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and cook them in the oil until golden brown. Remove strips from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add carrots, cabbage, and pressed garlic into the same pan. Sauté for a few minutes until veggies are slightly softened and cabbage becomes translucent.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken and noodles back into the pan. Pour your prepared sauce over everything and continue cooking all ingredients together for another 2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Garnish your chicken chow mein with chopped green onions. Serve piping hot straight from the pan! Enjoy this delightful dish that rivals any takeout!

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

Serving Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This dish shines as a main course, but pairing it with the right accompaniments will elevate your meal.

Garnishing Options

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch that complements the dish beautifully.

Accompaniments

• Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls serve as a crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the soft noodles.
• Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup provides a comforting addition to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds both nutrition and color to your plate.

Serving Style

• Family Style: Serve in the center of the table for everyone to share, making it a communal meal.
• Individual Bowls: For a more personal touch, ladle into individual bowls with garnishes for each guest.

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

Achieving perfection in your Chicken Chow Mein is all about attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you craft the best version of this beloved dish.

• Bold Flavor in Sauce: Ensure your sauce is well-mixed before adding it to enhance its flavor throughout the dish.
• High Heat Cooking: Use high heat when sautéing chicken and vegetables to achieve that signature stir-fry taste.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh veggies like cabbage and carrots for better texture and flavor.
• Proper Noodle Cooking: Cook noodles just until al dente; they will continue to cook when mixed with other ingredients.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning as you cook; this ensures that every bite is flavorful and balanced.

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

Side dishes can complement your Chicken Chow Mein beautifully, enhancing both flavors and textures. Consider these options for your meal.

1. Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken make an excellent appetizer.
2. Fried Rice: A classic fried rice can absorb flavors from the chow mein, creating a cohesive meal experience.
3. Chinese Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of chow mein.
4. Wonton Soup: Light yet satisfying, wonton soup serves as a warm starter full of delicate flavors.
5. Sautéed Bok Choy: Quick-cooked bok choy offers a tender texture and mild flavor that pairs well with chow mein.
6. Sweet and Sour Vegetables: A medley of veggies tossed in sweet and sour sauce creates an enticing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Using the wrong noodles – Chow mein requires specific noodles. Make sure you use chow mein noodles for the right texture and flavor.
• Overcooking vegetables – Sautéing veggies too long can lead to mushiness. Cook them just until tender for a crisp bite.
• Skipping the sauce – The chow mein sauce is essential for flavor. Don’t skip making it; it elevates the dish significantly.
• Not prepping ingredients first – Cooking can get chaotic. Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.
• Using too much oil – Adding excessive oil can make your dish greasy. Use just enough to coat the pan and cook your ingredients effectively.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chow mein to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
• Stovetop: Add a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat, then add chow mein and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

How do I make my chow mein sauce thicker?

To thicken your sauce, simply add more cornstarch mixed with water while cooking until you reach your desired consistency.

What vegetables work best in Chicken Chow Mein?

Cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas are great choices that enhance both texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. This one-pan dinner is sure to impress family and friends alike!