Easy Chicken Chow Mein

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Easy Chicken Chow Mein. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a savory sauce, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge. Let’s dive in and create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Easy Chicken Chow Mein is a weeknight dinner superstar! In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful dish that rivals your favorite takeout. The combining of flavors from the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and ginger creates an umami bomb that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to treat yourself, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Once you experience the delightful crunch of the coleslaw mix paired with the tender chicken and noodles, you’ll understand why this dish earns a spot in your regular rotation.

Shopping List

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil or canola oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin pieces
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups coleslaw mix
• 1 pound chow mein noodles, refrigerated or dry
• Green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger or ginger paste
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Setup & Equipment

• Large skillet or wok – for stir-frying the ingredients.
• Pot for boiling noodles – if using dry chow mein noodles.
• Cutting board & knife – for slicing chicken and chopping vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or tongs – for easy stirring and flipping of the ingredients.

Easy Chicken Chow Mein: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking your chow mein noodles according to package instructions. If you are using refrigerated noodles, they may only need a quick heat-through. Drain and set aside, making sure they don’t stick together.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step adds a beautiful aroma and depth of flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Toss in the Vegetables

Add the coleslaw mix to the skillet, stirring it into the chicken. Let the vegetables cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender yet still crisp. This crunch will add texture to your chow mein.

Step 5: Combine the Sauces

In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, chicken broth, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. This mixture will serve as the sauce that brings everything together.

Step 6: Mix in the Noodles

Add the cooked chow mein noodles to the skillet, pouring the sauce over the top. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated in the sauce and heated through. This is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Final Touches

Finish off the dish by drizzling the remaining 2 teaspoons of sesame oil over the noodles and gently tossing to combine. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh flavor and a pop of color.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Easy Chicken Chow Mein hot, straight from the skillet. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a side of Air Fryer Crunchy Lomein Spring Rolls for a satisfying meal.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Use any leftover vegetables you have, such as bell peppers or snap peas, in place of coleslaw mix.
• If you don’t have oyster sauce, soy sauce can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• For a gluten-free version, swap regular soy sauce with tamari and ensure your chow mein noodles are gluten-free.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken Chow Mein, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly.
• Avoid overcooking the vegetables. They should be tender but still retain some crunch for the best texture.
• Be careful not to skip the cornstarch in the sauce, as it helps to thicken it and coat the noodles evenly.
• Ensure the noodles are not overcooked, especially if using dry noodles, as they can become mushy.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which can be a rare occasion with this delicious dish!), let the chow mein cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up if needed.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can use shrimp, beef, or even a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

What type of noodles should I use?

Chow mein noodles are the best choice for this recipe, but you can also use lo mein noodles if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and veggies, and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just cook the noodles and combine everything in the skillet.

What can I serve with Chicken Chow Mein?

This dish is delightful on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. You could also serve it with steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a complete meal.

Desserts to Finish

• Air Fryer Crunchy Lomein Spring Rolls
• Chocolate Lava Cake
• Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
• Mini Cheesecakes

Before You Go

Now that you have the recipe for Easy Chicken Chow Mein under your belt, it’s time to make this delightful dish a part of your weeknight meal lineup. With its fresh ingredients, quick preparation, and customizable nature, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!