Skip the takeout and make this delicious Chicken Chow Mein at home! This one-pan stir-fry is packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, chewy chow mein noodles, and a rich, flavorful sauce that brings it all together. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights.
What Is Chicken Chow Mein?
Chicken Chow Mein is a classic Chinese dish featuring stir-fried egg noodles, vegetables, and chicken tossed in a sweet and savory sauce. The noodles get slightly crispy from the pan-frying process, and the sauce gives the entire dish its irresistible flavor. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that brings takeout-style taste straight to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Fast & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
- Better Than Takeout: Fresh, wholesome ingredients with bold flavor.
- Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables or swap chicken for tofu, beef, or shrimp.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
- Oil: 3 tbsp for stir-frying
- Noodles: 12 oz uncooked chow mein noodles (or pre-cooked, about 1 lb)
- Veggies:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1/2 bunch green onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Chow Mein 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 cornstarch
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sugar. Set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Cook according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan.
- Stir-Fry Veggies: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the cabbage, carrots, and garlic. Stir-fry until slightly softened.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken and noodles to the pan. Pour the sauce over everything and toss to coat. Cook for 2 more minutes until heated through and sauce thickens.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions. Serve hot straight from the pan.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Noodles: Look for chow mein noodles in the refrigerated or Asian section of your store. You can also use spaghetti in a pinch.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and add tofu instead of chicken.
- Extra Veggies: Try bok choy, broccoli, snow peas, or baby corn.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili oil or red pepper flakes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
This homemade Chicken Chow Mein is fast, flavorful, and so easy to make, you’ll never need takeout again. Enjoy this classic dish any night of the week!