There’s something magical about the aroma of sizzling garlic wafting through the kitchen, immediately transporting me to my favorite takeout joint. This Chicken Chow Mein recipe combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy noodles in just 30 minutes. What sets it apart is the balance of flavors from soy and oyster sauces that elevate every bite.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food but want to skip the takeout. It’s also a great choice for gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- You’ll enjoy the satisfying texture of tender chicken combined with crisp vegetables.
- Sautéing garlic in sesame oil fills your kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma.
- The quick cooking time makes it an excellent option for weekdays.
- Its versatility means you can add your favorite veggies or proteins.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make delicious Chicken Chow Mein.
For the Noodles
- 8 oz chow mein noodles
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions, sliced
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Consider low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken: Use cooked shrimp or tofu.
- Bell peppers: Swap with snow peas or broccoli.
- Oyster sauce: Replace with hoisin sauce for vegetarian.
- Chow mein noodles: Use spaghetti in a pinch.
How to Make It
Cooking Chicken Chow Mein is easy and quick!
1. Cook noodles
Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic
In a large pan or wok, heat sesame oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables
Add bell peppers and carrots, cooking until slightly tender.
4. Stir in chicken and sprouts
Stir in cooked chicken, bean sprouts, and green onions.
5. Combine noodles and sauces
Add the cooked noodles and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce.
6. Toss everything
Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Season to taste
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot
Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
How to Store It
Fridge: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, noodles can become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure noodles are cooked al dente for the best texture.
- Prepare all ingredients before starting to save time.
- Stir-fry ingredients quickly to maintain their crunch.
- Customize the dish by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of steamed dumplings.
- Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber salad.
- Enjoy with a glass of iced tea for a perfect meal.
