Chicken Chow Mein: The Ultimate Takeout-Style Recipe

Craving delicious Chinese takeout but want to make it at home? Chicken Chow Mein is the perfect dish! This stir-fried noodle recipe features tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and flavorful savory sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked noodles. It’s quick, easy, and tastes even better than takeout!

Why Choose Homemade Chicken Chow Mein?

• Better than Takeout: Fresh, high-quality ingredients with no added preservatives.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Customizable: Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add extra veggies.

• Budget-Friendly: A more affordable alternative to restaurant versions.

Ingredients

For the Chow Mein Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)

• 2 tbsp water

For the Chicken and Noodles:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (for marinating chicken)

• 1 tsp cornstarch (for marinating chicken)

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 10 oz chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ginger, minced

• 1/2 onion, sliced

• 1 cup shredded cabbage

• 1/2 cup julienned carrots

• 1/2 cup bean sprouts (optional)

• 2 green onions, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients and set aside.

2. In another bowl, mix sliced chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

3. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add marinated chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pan.

2. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and onions for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked chicken and noodles back to the pan.

2. Pour in the chow mein sauce and toss everything together until evenly coated.

3. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the noodles.

4. Sprinkle with green onions and serve hot.

Nutrition Breakdown

This homemade version is healthier than takeout while keeping all the delicious flavors:

• Calories per Serving: ~400 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 50g

• Fats: 10g

• Fiber: 4g

Tips for the Best Chicken Chow Mein

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken make all the difference.

• Pre-Cook Noodles Just Right: Don’t overcook them; they should be slightly firm before stir-frying.

• Stir-Fry Over High Heat: This ensures crispy veggies and perfectly coated noodles.

• Customize the Flavor: Add chili flakes for spice or extra garlic for more depth.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your Chicken Chow Mein with:

• Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls for an authentic takeout experience.

• Hot and Sour Soup or Wonton Soup to start your meal.

• Bubble Tea or Iced Green Tea for a refreshing drink.

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein is a delicious, quick, and easy meal that brings the best of takeout-style flavors to your kitchen. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles, this dish is a must-try for any Chinese food lover.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade takeout experience!