Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a classic Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe, bringing together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly textured noodles all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. This dish is an irresistible fusion of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-packed flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe promises a delightful mealtime experience that’s quick to prepare yet impressively delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe lies in its simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role in building a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color, transforming everyday pantry staples into a restaurant-quality dish.

• 200 g boneless, skinless chicken breast: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds salty depth to the marinade and sauce.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and enhances umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken sauces and tenderizes the chicken.
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Divided for stir-frying to achieve a perfect sear without sticking.
• 200 g chow mein noodles: The chewy base that carries the sauce and fillings.
• 1/2 small onion: Thinly sliced for sweetness and texture.
• 1 red bell pepper: Julienned for color and a touch of natural sweetness.
• 1 cup bean sprouts: Adds a refreshing crunch and lightness.
• 1/2 cup green onions: Chopped into 2-inch pieces for freshness and garnish.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic warmth.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing all flavors perfectly.
• Chow Mein Sauce Ingredients:
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining your thinly sliced chicken breast with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl. Letting it marinate for at least 15 minutes not only infuses flavor but also ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy when cooked. This crucial step sets the foundation for the entire dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions until just tender, then drain them well. Setting these aside early keeps them ready to mingle with the sauce and veggies later, ensuring they don’t overcook and stay perfectly chewy.

Step 3: Mix the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and chicken broth. This sauce is where the magic happens — a rich blend that brings all the flavors together with a luscious, velvety finish. The cornstarch helps it to thicken beautifully when added to the wok.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s cooked through and lightly golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, remove the chicken and set it aside. This ensures it stays tender and doesn’t dry out during the next steps.

Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and everything smells wonderfully fragrant. This step layers in a sweet and savory base that elevates the entire dish.

Step 6: Add Vegetables and Noodles

Next, stir-fry the red bell pepper for a couple of minutes to keep its crunch and vibrant hue. Then add the cooked noodles, bean sprouts, and half of the green onions, tossing everything together for 1 to 2 minutes. This ensures a perfect balance of textures and fresh flavors throughout.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then pour in the prepared chow mein sauce. Stir everything very well so that the sauce evenly coats every noodle, vegetable, and piece of chicken. This is where the dish truly comes alive with its signature savory-sweet taste.

Step 8: Final Cook and Taste Test

Cook the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed — this final touch ensures your Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe is perfectly seasoned.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the remaining green onions on top for a fresh, inviting finish, then serve your Chicken Chow Mein hot. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely have everyone gathering around the table eager to dive in.

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing with fresh green onions adds a crisp, spring-like bite that contrasts beautifully with the tender noodles and rich sauce. You might also consider a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few thin slices of fresh chili to add a little heat and texture. These simple touches make the dish look vibrant and taste even better.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Chow Mein pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a more substantial meal. You can also serve it alongside light vegetable dishes like sautéed bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad to balance the richness of the noodles and chicken with refreshing crunch and brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress guests, try serving your Chicken Chow Mein in individual lettuce cups for a fun, handheld twist. Alternatively, plate the noodles on a bed of fresh greens or sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for an unexpected crunch. Presentation can elevate this comforting dish into a show-stopping center of attention.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Chow Mein can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, store the noodles and sauce mixture together, and avoid adding garnishes until serving to keep them fresh and crisp.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to one month. Noodles might soften a bit upon thawing, so consider slightly undercooking the noodles initially if you anticipate freezing leftovers.

Reheating

When reheating, warm your Chicken Chow Mein gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive moisture and prevent the noodles from drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as this can make the noodles chewy and unevenly heated.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness and richness to the dish. Just be sure to slice them thinly and adjust cooking time slightly as thighs tend to cook a little more quickly.

What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?

If you can’t find chow mein noodles, thin egg noodles or even spaghetti can work as substitutes. Just cook them al dente and drain well before stir-frying to maintain the right texture.

Is the sauce spicy? Can I make it milder?

The sauce in this recipe is savory and slightly sweet but not spicy. If you want to add heat, you can sprinkle in some chili flakes or add a dash of chili garlic sauce. To keep it mild, simply follow the recipe as is.

Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

While the classic Chicken Chow Mein centers on chicken, you can easily swap it for tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and broccoli for a delicious vegetarian or vegan version. Just remember to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.

Why is cornstarch important in this recipe?

Cornstarch serves two key purposes: it tenderizes the chicken during marination and thickens the chow mein sauce, giving it that glossy, cohesive finish that clings perfectly to the noodles and veggies.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce Recipe feels like passing along a cherished secret that brings joy every time. It’s an effortlessly delicious dish that satisfies cravings and brightens any meal with its bold flavors and inviting textures. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, give this recipe a go—you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds and thirds!

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