If you love Chinese takeout, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe will be your new favorite! It’s a one-pan wonder loaded with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, classic chow mein noodles, and the most irresistible sweet-and-savory sauce. Not only is it quick and easy to make, but it’s also healthier (and tastier!) than takeout.
🍜 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Chow Mein hits all the right notes — chewy noodles, perfectly cooked chicken, colorful veggies, and a rich sauce that coats every bite. The best part? It comes together in about 35 minutes with just one pan to clean!
🥢 What Is Chicken Chow Mein?
Chow Mein is a classic Chinese stir-fried noodle dish made with egg noodles, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. The noodles are pan-fried for a slightly crisp texture, then tossed with tender meat and a glossy sauce that ties it all together.
This homemade version gives you all the takeout-style flavor — without the excess oil or mystery ingredients!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chow Mein:
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 3 Tbsp oil, for cooking
- 12 oz chow mein noodles, uncooked
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- ½ bunch green onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed
For the Sauce:
- 4 Tbsp oyster sauce (adjust to taste)
- 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
👩🍳 How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
- Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside. - Cook the Noodles
Prepare noodles according to package directions, then drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside. - Cook the Chicken
Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil, then add sliced chicken. Cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. - Stir-Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the carrots, cabbage, and garlic for a few minutes until tender and fragrant. - Combine Everything
Return the chicken and noodles to the pan. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through (about 2 minutes). - Finish and Serve
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot straight from the pan!
🌟 Pro Tips
- Don’t skip the sauce! The combination of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil gives this dish its authentic takeout flavor.
- Crispy noodles: Let the noodles cook undisturbed for 30 seconds before stirring to get slightly crisp edges.
- Customize it: Swap in shrimp, beef, or tofu for the chicken, or add extra veggies like broccoli, bok choy, or baby corn.
🍴 Serving Ideas
Serve your Chicken Chow Mein with:
- Steamed rice or dumplings for a full meal
- Asian cucumber salad for a refreshing side
- A drizzle of chili oil or sriracha for heat lovers
❤️ Why This Recipe Works
This easy chow mein brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen in under 40 minutes. Every bite is packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and saucy noodles that hit that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami. Once you try it, you’ll skip the takeout line for good!