Chicken Chow Mein

Introduction

Chicken Chow Mein is a beloved dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of comfort food with its savory flavors and delightful textures. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this dish has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of people worldwide. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience—one that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and satisfying noodles all tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this easy Chicken Chow Mein recipe will guide you through creating a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and uncover the secrets of making this delicious dish.

Ingredients

To make Chicken Chow Mein, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 8 oz chow mein noodles or spaghetti

For the Chow Mein Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp mushroom sauce (used instead of oyster sauce)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare a mouth-watering Chicken Chow Mein:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch.
• Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Make the Sauce:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the following:
  • Soy sauce
  • Mushroom sauce
  • Hoisin sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Cornstarch
  • Chicken broth
  • Sugar
  • Grated ginger
  • Minced garlic
• Mix well and set aside for later use.

3. Cook the Noodles:

• Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions.
• Drain and set aside once cooked.

4. Stir-Fry the Chicken:

• Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until it’s fully cooked and slightly golden.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

5. Cook the Vegetables:

• In the same pan, stir-fry the onion and carrots for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
• Add cabbage and bean sprouts, cooking for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

6. Combine Everything:

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
• Add the prepared noodles and the reserved sauce.
• Mix everything well, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
• Toss in the green onions and stir for a final 2-3 minutes.

7. Serve:

• Enjoy your Chicken Chow Mein hot.
• Garnish with extra green onions if desired for added flavor and color.

Nutrition Facts

This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is not only delicious but also provides a balanced nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

This meal offers a good balance of macronutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for lunch or dinner.

How to Serve

Chicken Chow Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways, making it an excellent choice for any meal occasion. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to serve this beloved dish, ensuring that you can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive gathering.

As a Main Dish

When serving Chicken Chow Mein as a standalone meal, you can highlight its flavor and heartiness by presenting it attractively. Here are some tips to enhance its appeal:

• Presentation: Use a large, shallow serving bowl to display the Chow Mein. Garnish with freshly chopped scallions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of cilantro to add color and freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor.
• Temperature: Serve Chicken Chow Mein hot, straight from the wok, to ensure that the noodles remain slightly crisp and the vegetables retain their vibrant colors. If you need to prepare it in advance, consider keeping it warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
• Portioning: For individual servings, consider using deep, wide bowls to create an inviting presentation. You can even layer the Chow Mein with additional vegetables or proteins on top to make each bowl unique.
• Accompaniments: Have a small side of soy sauce, chili oil, or oyster sauce available for guests who may want to add an extra kick or depth of flavor to their dish.

With Side Dishes

Pairing Chicken Chow Mein with complementary side dishes can elevate the meal and create a balanced dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

• Steamed Rice: A simple jasmine or brown rice pairs beautifully with Chow Mein. The rice can help absorb the savory sauce, providing a comforting contrast to the noodles. Consider serving the rice in a separate bowl, allowing guests to choose how much they would like to add to their meal.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the Chow Mein. Opt for ingredients like mixed greens, cucumber, and shredded carrots, and consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nod to Asian flavors.
• Vegetable Sides: Steamed or stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas, can enhance the meal’s nutritional value and add a variety of textures and flavors. Lightly season these vegetables to complement the Chow Mein without overpowering it.

For Gatherings

When hosting a gathering, Chicken Chow Mein can be a star dish among a variety of Asian-inspired offerings. Here’s how to create an impressive spread:

• Buffet Style: Arrange Chicken Chow Mein as the centerpiece of a buffet-style meal. Surround it with an array of other dishes, such as spring rolls, dumplings, and potstickers. This allows guests to create their own plates and sample a variety of flavors.
• Themed Decor: To enhance the dining experience, consider a theme for your gathering. Use Asian-inspired tableware, such as bamboo placemats, chopsticks, and decorative bowls. Dim the lights and play soothing Asian music to set the mood.
• Beverage Pairings: Complement the meal with beverages that enhance the flavors of the dishes. Light beers, such as lagers or pale ales, can pair well with the savory elements of Chicken Chow Mein, while a refreshing iced tea or Asian-inspired cocktails can also be great choices.
• Dessert Options: To round out the meal, consider serving traditional Asian desserts, such as mango sticky rice, green tea ice cream, or sesame balls. This not only completes the dining experience but also leaves guests with a memorable finish.

In conclusion, Chicken Chow Mein offers a delightful culinary experience that can be tailored to fit any occasion. Whether served as a hearty main dish, paired with complementary sides, or featured in a lavish buffet, it is sure to please a crowd and make any meal special. By paying attention to presentation, temperature, and complementary flavors, you can ensure that your Chicken Chow Mein is not only delicious but also a feast for the senses.

Additional Tips

Enhance your Chicken Chow Mein experience with these additional tips:

Customize Your Vegetables

One of the joys of making Chicken Chow Mein is the flexibility it offers in terms of vegetables. While traditional recipes often call for bean sprouts and cabbage, feel free to explore a variety of options based on your taste preferences or what you have in your kitchen.

• Bell Peppers: These add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to your dish. Opt for a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—to make your chow mein visually appealing.
• Snap Peas: Their natural sweetness and crisp texture make them a fantastic addition. Simply toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain their crunch.
• Broccoli: This nutrient-packed vegetable not only enhances the dish’s nutritional profile but also provides a satisfying bite. Cut it into small florets and blanch it briefly before adding it to the pan.
• Carrots: Thinly sliced or julienned carrots can add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful orange hue, complementing the other ingredients.
• Mushrooms: Varieties like shiitake or button mushrooms can impart an earthy flavor and a chewy texture, enriching the overall taste of your chow mein.

By mixing and matching vegetables, you can create a unique dish every time while also using up leftovers.

Adjust the Spice Level

If you enjoy a bit of heat in your meals, don’t hesitate to customize the spice level of your Chicken Chow Mein. Here are some suggestions to elevate the heat:

• Chili Flakes: Sprinkle in a teaspoon or more of red chili flakes to the sauce or directly into the stir-fry. This will give your dish a subtle warmth that builds gradually.
• Sriracha: This popular hot sauce can be mixed directly into the sauce, or drizzled on top of the final dish before serving for an extra kick. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Fresh Chilies: For a more vibrant heat, consider adding sliced fresh chilies like jalapeños or Thai bird’s eye chilies during the cooking process. This will infuse the dish with a fresh, zesty flavor.

Use Fresh Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the overall flavor and texture of your Chicken Chow Mein. Prioritize fresh, high-quality components for the best results:

• Vegetables: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also retain more nutrients. Look for crisp, vibrant produce at your local market or grocery store.
• Chicken: Choose fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for a tender and juicy texture. If you have time, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for added flavor before cooking.
• Noodles: Opt for fresh egg noodles if possible, as they provide a delightful chewiness. If using dried noodles, ensure they are high-quality to avoid a mushy texture.

Double the Sauce

If you love a saucy chow mein, consider doubling the sauce ingredients to ensure every strand of noodle and piece of chicken is perfectly coated. Here’s how to do it:

• Balance the Flavors: When doubling, keep in mind to maintain the balance of flavors. Adjust the ratios of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to ensure the dish doesn’t become overly salty or sweet.
• Thickening: If you’re increasing the sauce, you may also want to add a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it. This will create a glossy finish and help the sauce cling to the ingredients.

Make It Gluten-Free

For those following a gluten-free diet, it’s easy to adapt Chicken Chow Mein to meet your needs. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is gluten-free:

• Gluten-Free Soy Sauce: Replace regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.
• Noodles: Choose gluten-free noodles made from rice or other gluten-free grains. Brown rice noodles or rice vermicelli are excellent choices that work well in stir-fries.
• Additional Ingredients: Always verify that any sauces or additional ingredients, such as oyster sauce or hoisin sauce, are labeled gluten-free.

By implementing these tips, you’ll not only enhance the flavor and texture of your Chicken Chow Mein but also cater to your personal preferences and dietary needs, making this dish a true reflection of your culinary style. Enjoy the process of experimenting and make it your own!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?

A: Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.

Q2: What if I can’t find mushroom sauce?

A: If mushroom sauce is unavailable, you can use oyster sauce or a vegetarian alternative for similar flavor.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the noodles and chicken separately, and store the sauce. Combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Q5: Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?

A: While it’s possible to freeze, fresh vegetables may lose their texture. If you plan to freeze, slightly undercook the vegetables and noodles to retain some texture after reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors and textures of Asian cuisine in a simple, easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. By following these steps and utilizing the tips provided, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy the culinary journey of making Chicken Chow Mein. Happy cooking!