Name: Savory Chicken Chow Mein in 30 Minutes or Less
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 6 oz Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs (Substitutable with tofu for a vegetarian option.); 1 tbsp Shaoxing Wine (For marinade.); 2 tsp Cornstarch (Acts as a tenderizer for chicken.); 1/4 tsp Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 1/4 cup Chicken Broth (Liquid base for the sauce.); 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce (Key umami flavor component.); 1 tbsp Soy Sauce (Provides saltiness and color.); 2 tsp Sugar (Balances savory flavors.); 1/4 tsp White Pepper (Adds a subtle heat.); 1 tsp Sesame Oil (Infuses a nutty aroma.); 2 tbsp Peanut Oil (Great for frying due to high smoke point.); 4 cups Shredded Cabbage (Provides crunch and nutrition.); 2 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped, aromatic base.); 1 tbsp Ginger (Minced for brightness.); 10 oz Fresh or Dried Chow Mein Noodles (Dried noodles require boiling.); 2 small Carrots (Julienned for sweetness.); 1 Anaheim Pepper (Sliced, optional for mild heat.); 4 Green Onions (Cut into 2” pieces for garnish.)

As the sizzling sounds of garlic and ginger fill the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement for what’s to come. This Quick and Delicious Chicken Chow Mein is a meal that brings back memories of cozy family dinners, delicious and fuss-free. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chow mein noodles wrapped in a rich sauce, it’s a far cry from any fast-food alternative. Plus, it’s so quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is tight. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just looking to reclaim some time in your busy schedule, this recipe invites you to savor each moment. Curious about how to make it a family favorite tonight? Let’s dive in!

Why is Chicken Chow Mein a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This Chicken Chow Mein comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners!

Fresh Ingredients: Packed with colorful veggies and tender chicken, this dish is all about freshness, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up proteins or noodles—tofu, shrimp, or even spaghetti make great alternatives!

Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Whether it’s family or friends, everyone will love this delicious twist on your favorite takeout.

Healthy Comfort Food: With each ingredient thoughtfully chosen, you’ll enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.

Satisfying Texture: The combination of crisp vegetables and tender chicken in a glossy sauce creates a delightful mouthfeel—who can resist?

Explore more delightful dishes like Peanut Chicken Savory and Garlic Butter Chicken to add variety to your dinner routine!

Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients

Get ready to cook up a delightful Chicken Chow Mein with these fresh and vibrant ingredients!

For the Chicken & Marinade

Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs (6 oz) – Provides protein and texture; substitutable with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Shaoxing Wine (1 tbsp for marinade; 2 tbsp for sauce) – Adds depth of flavor to chicken and sauce; can use dry sherry or chicken broth instead.
Cornstarch (2 tsp) – Acts as a tenderizer for chicken.
Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Sauce

Chicken Broth (1/4 cup) – Liquid base for the sauce, adding flavor.
Oyster Sauce (2 tbsp) – Key umami flavor component; substitutable with vegetarian oyster sauce or a mix of soy and hoisin.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Provides saltiness and color; light or dark soy can change flavor profile.
Sugar (2 tsp) – Balances savory flavors beautifully.
White Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Adds a subtle heat; ground black pepper can be used as an alternative.
Sesame Oil (1 tsp) – Infuses a nutty aroma into the dish.

For the Stir-Fry

Peanut Oil (2 tbsp) – Great for frying due to high smoke point; can substitute with vegetable oil.
Shredded Cabbage (4 cups) – Provides crunch and nutrition; pre-cut coleslaw mix is a time-saving option.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped) – Aromatic base that elevates flavor.
Ginger (1 tbsp, minced) – Adds brightness and warmth.
Fresh or Dried Chow Mein Noodles (10 oz fresh or 6 oz dried) – The primary carb source for texture and heartiness; dried noodles require boiling, while fresh need brief cooking.
Carrots (2 small, julienned) – Bring sweetness and vibrant color.
Anaheim Pepper (1, sliced, optional) – Adds mild heat for those who enjoy a little spice.
Green Onions (4, cut into 2” pieces) – Perfect garnish to finish off the dish.

Prepare to bring excitement to your dinner table with this delightful Chicken Chow Mein recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Chow Mein

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the boneless chicken breast or thighs with 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Toss everything until the chicken is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld while preparing the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This aromatic sauce will bring depth to your Chicken Chow Mein; set it aside while you cook the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add your fresh or dried chow mein noodles. Cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. If using dried noodles, ensure to rinse them under cold water after boiling to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside for later.

Step 4: Sauté the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking for about 1 to 1.5 minutes per side until they turn golden and opaque. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Aromatics
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of peanut oil along with the finely chopped garlic and minced ginger. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring not to let them burn, as this will enhance the flavor base for your Chicken Chow Mein.

Step 6: Add Vegetables
Next, toss in the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir-fry these for about 1 minute until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. The vibrant colors and textures will make your Chicken Chow Mein visually appealing and nutritious.

Step 7: Combine Everything
Introduce the boiled noodles back into the skillet with the sautéed chicken and the prepared sauce. Using tongs, mix thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated in the delicious sauce. This step will bring all those wonderful flavors together, creating the essence of Chicken Chow Mein.

Step 8: Final Touches
Finally, add the optional sliced Anaheim pepper and the chopped green onions to the skillet. Toss everything together until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. This last step will give your Chicken Chow Mein a bright finish, ready to be served hot and enjoyed with family or friends.

Expert Tips for Chicken Chow Mein

Prep Ahead: Gather and chop all your ingredients before starting to cook. This saves time and ensures a smooth cooking process for your Chicken Chow Mein.
Avoid Overcrowding: When sautéing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows for even browning and better texture.
Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, dissolve a little cornstarch in cold water and stir it in just before serving; this will enhance the mouthfeel of your Chicken Chow Mein.
Mix and Match: Don’t hesitate to swap out proteins or vegetables based on what you have at home. Chicken Chow Mein is highly versatile!
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on your heat. A medium-high temperature is ideal for stir-frying, as it cooks quickly while preserving the crunch of the vegetables.

Chicken Chow Mein Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this beloved Chicken Chow Mein recipe; your kitchen is your canvas!

Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian option. Simply marinate and stir-fry as you would with chicken for delicious results.
Noodle Swap: Use rice noodles or yakisoba for a gluten-free option. This brings a whole new texture and flavor, allowing for tasty experimentation!
Heat It Up: Want some spice? Toss in sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.
Veggie Medley: Mix in seasonal vegetables like snow peas, bell peppers, or even broccoli. The more color, the better—the crunch will be delightful!
Soy-Free Version: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. This gives the dish a slightly sweeter flavor profile while retaining that umami goodness.
Noodle-Free Option: For a low-carb twist, try using spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of noodles. It’s nutritious and adds a fun twist to the texture.
Broth Boost: Instead of chicken broth, use vegetable broth to enhance the aroma while keeping it light and scrumptious.
Five-Spice Flavor: For a unique twist, add a pinch of Chinese five-spice powder to the marinade for an aromatic kick that elevates the dish to a new level.

Explore the world of flavors, and don’t forget to pair this masterpiece with more delicious dishes like Honey BBQ Chicken Penne or Cheesy Chicken Garlic Wraps to create unforgettable meals!

What to Serve with Quick and Delicious Chicken Chow Mein

Creating a memorable meal involves pairing delicious sides that elevate your Chicken Chow Mein experience.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights offer a satisfying contrast to the tender noodles and veggies, adding a pop of flavor.
Garlic Fried Rice: Complement the meal with fragrant fried rice infused with garlic—its subtle flavors enhance the overall taste without overpowering.
Steamed Broccoli: A bright and nutritious addition, the crisp-tender broccoli coated with a hint of soy sauce adds both color and healthiness to your plate.
Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy salad featuring crunchy cucumber, sesame oil, and rice vinegar will cleanse the palate between bites.
Miso Soup: This warm and savory soup brings a comforting element to your meal, perfectly balancing the heartiness of the Chicken Chow Mein.
Green Tea: Enjoy a soothing cup of green tea that complements the dish without overshadowing its flavors, enhancing your dining experience.
Fruit Sorbet: For a light dessert, a scoop of fruit sorbet offers a sweet, refreshing ending to your meal, perfect for cleansing the palate after a savory dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Chow Mein preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken with Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, which saves precious time on cooking day. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken and stir-fry the veggies as directed. Toss in the prepared sauce and noodles, and voila! You’ll enjoy a delicious homemade Chicken Chow Mein that tastes just as fresh and vibrant as if you made it all in one go.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chow Mein

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavor and texture of your Chicken Chow Mein.

Freezer: For prolonged storage, freeze Chicken Chow Mein in a sealed container or a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s best to leave out the green onions until reheating.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the sauce and prevent drying.

Room Temperature: Do not leave Chicken Chow Mein out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Chow Mein?
For Chicken Chow Mein, boneless chicken breast or thighs are ideal, providing both protein and tender texture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu can be a great substitute, absorbing the delicious flavors of the marinade and sauce.

How should I store leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep your Chicken Chow Mein fresh and delicious! If you want to enjoy it later, place it in the freezer where it can last for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! To freeze Chicken Chow Mein, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a heavy-duty freezer bag or a sealed container. I often leave out the green onions until I reheat it, which helps retain their crunch. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my Chicken Chow Mein sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce is too thin, here’s what to do: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into your chicken chow mein while cooking, and allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens up to your desired consistency.

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Chicken Chow Mein gluten-free! Swap regular soy sauce for tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and use rice noodles instead of chow mein noodles. Just be sure to check other sauce ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

How long can I leave Chicken Chow Mein at room temperature?
It’s best not to leave Chicken Chow Mein out at room temperature for more than 2 hours for safety reasons. After that, it’s recommended to store leftovers in the fridge or freezer to keep it fresh and safe to eat.