Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken chow mein with the best chow mein sauce is an amazing dish that you can easily prepare in your kitchen. This meal is packed with juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful chow mein noodles. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delightful homemade option that rivals any takeout. The standout feature of this recipe is the delicious homemade chow mein sauce, which adds a unique depth of flavor to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade chow mein sauce is a delicious blend of ingredients that elevates the dish.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out veggies or proteins based on your preferences, making every meal unique.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with chicken and vegetables, this dish is nutritious and satisfying without being overly heavy.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and yield better results.

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 for even cooking and easy tossing of ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining sauces efficiently before adding them to the dish.
• Whisk: Ensures that sauces are blended smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to create this delicious Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce:

Protein

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)

Noodles

• 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)

Vegetables

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

Sauce Ingredients

• 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. Oyster sauce
2. Granulated sugar
3. Sesame oil
4. Soy sauce
5. Chicken broth
6. Cornstarch

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook your chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked:
1. Drain them.
2. Rinse with cold water.
3. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large wok or frying pan over medium heat with oil.
2. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips.
3. Add the chicken to the hot oil and cook until golden brown.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add julienned carrots, chopped cabbage, and pressed garlic.
2. Sauté these ingredients for a few minutes until they soften slightly and the cabbage becomes translucent.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken and drained noodles back into the pan.
2. Pour your prepared sauce over all ingredients.
3. Stir well to combine everything, continuing to cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish your chicken chow mein with chopped green onions and serve directly from the pan while piping hot!

Now you have a delicious Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce that’s sure to impress! Enjoy this delightful homemade dish at any occasion!

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

Serving Chicken Chow Mein is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and textures. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a vibrant flavor and freshness.
• Thai Basil – This fragrant herb complements the dish with a unique taste.

Pair with Crunchy Vegetables

• Cucumber Salad – A simple salad with sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar adds a refreshing crunch.
• Pickled Radishes – These bring a tangy contrast that balances the savory chow mein.

Add a Protein Boost

• Fried Tofu – Crispy tofu cubes can enhance the meal’s protein while providing a satisfying texture.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers – Serve on the side for guests who want extra protein.

Include a Sweet Element

• Pineapple Chunks – Adding sweet pineapple can give a delightful burst of flavor.
• Mango Salsa – This fruity salsa pairs well, adding sweetness and zest to every bite.

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

To make your Chicken Chow Mein truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables provide better flavor and texture, enhancing your dish’s quality.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente – Slightly undercooking noodles ensures they maintain texture when tossed in the sauce.
• Stir-Fry Quickly – High heat and fast cooking keep veggies crunchy and vibrant in color.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and modify sauces according to your preference for sweetness or saltiness.
• Customize Veggies – Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for personalization; bell peppers or snow peas work well.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Letting the dish sit for a couple of minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.

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

Adding side dishes can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients and a slight crunch, complementing chow mein well.
2. Egg Drop Soup – A warm bowl of egg drop soup makes for a comforting addition that pairs nicely with chicken chow mein.
3. Spring Rolls – Crisp vegetable spring rolls add extra texture and flavor, ideal for dipping.
4. Fried Rice – A side of fried rice gives more depth while staying within an Asian cuisine theme.
5. Sesame Cucumber Salad – This refreshing salad offers a cool, crisp contrast to the warm chow mein.
6. Vegetable Dumplings – Steamed or pan-fried dumplings make for an excellent appetizer alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce, there are common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Avoid these mistakes for a delicious meal.

• Skipping the sauce preparation: Failing to mix your sauce ingredients properly can lead to uneven flavor. Always whisk together your sauces before adding them to the pan.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for golden brown pieces and remove them from heat as soon as they reach that point.
• Not cooking noodles correctly: Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Follow package instructions closely and rinse them with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process.
• Neglecting vegetable texture: Sautéing vegetables for too long can turn them limp. Cook just until tender but still crisp for the best texture.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping green onions can compromise presentation and flavor. Always add fresh garnishes just before serving for a pop of color and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chow mein has cooled down before sealing the container.

Freezing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered in foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I customize Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?

You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different proteins such as beef or turkey as well!

What type of noodles should I use?

Chow mein noodles are traditional, but you can substitute with lo mein or even rice noodles if desired. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables, and use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce for a vegetarian-friendly version.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile! Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personalized touch. This one-pan dish promises convenience and delightful flavors, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Give it a try today!