If you have ever craved that perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory noodles all coated in a flavorful sauce, then this Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen repertoire. It captures the essence of comforting Chinese takeout but with fresh ingredients and a personalized touch that will make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is a delightful way to enjoy a fast, satisfying meal that feels homemade and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one brings its own texture, brightness, and depth that come together beautifully when cooked just right. From fresh veggies that add crunch and color to sauces that provide a perfect balance of salty and savory, these ingredients are your keys to an amazing dish.
- 8 oz chow mein noodles: The chewy, soft noodles are the star base that soaks up all the fantastic sauce.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for marinade): Adds subtle saltiness and depth to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect neutral oil for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- 1 cup green cabbage, thinly sliced: Adds crunch and a mild sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned: For a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup snap peas: Adds a fresh, crisp snap to every mouthful.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated: Gives a warm, zesty kick that elevates the entire dish.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (for the stir-fry): The backbone of the sauce, lending umami and saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and richness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Provides a toasty, nutty aroma that’s quintessential in chow mein.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh, sharp finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to tie everything together.
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds a lovely texture contrast and visual appeal.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. It’s important to cook them just until tender but still a bit firm to the bite, as they will finish cooking when tossed with the sauce later. Drain them thoroughly and set aside so they don’t get mushy.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
While the noodles cook, toss your thinly sliced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce in a medium bowl. This simple marinade infuses the chicken with savory flavor and helps keep it juicy during cooking. Let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the rest.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step ensures the chicken has a nice sear and stays tender.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the green cabbage, red bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry them for around 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender-crisp—this texture is key to keeping the chow mein fresh and vibrant. The veggies contribute bright colors and contrasting textures to the meal.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook everything together for about 30 seconds until those intoxicating aromas fill your kitchen. This step builds the foundational flavor base that makes homemade chow mein so addictively delicious.
Step 6: Combine Chicken, Noodles, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Then, add the drained noodles, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure that the noodles, chicken, and veggies are coated evenly with the luscious sauce. Heat it all through so the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Green Onions
Give your dish a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the sliced green onions last to preserve their fresh, sharp bite, which complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Transfer your Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe to a big serving plate or individual bowls. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an extra nutty crunch and a gorgeous finish that makes the meal feel special.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds is a delightful way to add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sesame oil in the sauce. You can also add a few extra sliced green onions or a wedge of lime on the side to brighten flavors further when serving.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe with some light sides like steamed dumplings, a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar, or even a bowl of hot and sour soup. These sides balance the meal with fresh, crisp, or tangy notes that contrast the hearty noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chow mein in individual lettuce cups for a refreshing handheld meal. You might also sprinkle crushed peanuts or a drizzle of chili oil for extra texture and heat, tailoring the dish to your personal taste and impressing guests with an unexpected flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from your Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually marry quite nicely after resting, but be mindful the vegetables may soften over time.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this chow mein, portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that frozen stir-fried vegetables can lose some of their crispness upon thawing, so this method is best when convenience is the priority.
Reheating
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to gently warm the chow mein. Stir frequently and add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the noodles gummy and the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle for this Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe?
Absolutely! While chow mein noodles are traditional and ideal, you can substitute with egg noodles or even thin spaghetti in a pinch. Just be sure to cook them according to package directions and drain well.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or a medley of mushrooms and increase the vegetables. Use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce-based sauces to keep it flavorful without animal products.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
You can prep the vegetables and chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to stir-fry everything just before serving to keep the noodles and veggies fresh and crisp. Pre-cooking the chicken and chopping the veggies will save you valuable time.
What makes this Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe healthier than takeout?
By making it yourself, you control the amount of oil, salt, and sugar, plus you use fresh vegetables and lean chicken, making it a lighter, nutrient-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add some red pepper flakes or drizzle in your favorite chili sauce during step 6. This Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe is very adaptable to your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe truly embodies that perfect blend of comforting familiarity and fresh, vibrant ingredients that make a homemade meal special. It’s a dish you’ll find yourself returning to time and again because of its quick preparation and delicious results. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find it’s your new weeknight favorite!
Print
Homemade Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make homemade Chicken Chow Mein featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked chow mein noodles tossed in a savory soy and oyster sauce blend.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for chicken marinade)
Noodles
- 8 oz chow mein noodles
Vegetables
- 1 cup green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
Sauces and Oils
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent clumping.
- Marinate Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to lightly marinate and add flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced green cabbage, julienned red bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained chow mein noodles along with 1/4 cup soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss all ingredients thoroughly to combine and heat through evenly.
- Season and Garnish: Season the chow mein with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the sliced green onions to add fresh brightness. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds if desired for a nutty finish.
Notes
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best aromatic flavor.
- Ensure vegetables remain crisp by cooking them just until tender-crisp.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for alternative proteins.
- Adjust soy and oyster sauce quantities based on your preferred saltiness and savoriness.
- Sesame seeds garnish is optional but adds a nice texture and visual appeal.
