Introduction to Chicken Chow Mein
Why Chicken Chow Mein is the Perfect Midweek Meal?
Looking for a quick dinner option that satisfies your cravings without taking hours to prepare? Chicken Chow Mein might just be your new favorite go-to! This beloved Asian dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory noodles, making it a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.
One of the key reasons this recipe shines during a busy week is its incredible speed. From prepping to serving, you can whip up a delicious meal in just about 25 minutes. Perfect for those hectic evenings when time isn't on your side!
What's more, you can easily customize your Chow Mein with any vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Whether it’s leftover chicken, some fresh veggies from your fridge, or even a quick swap to a meat alternative, this dish is as flexible as your schedule.
Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan, which means less time on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. If you’re looking to impress without the stress, savoring homemade Chicken Chow Mein can turn an ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein
Making a delicious Chicken Chow Mein at home starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here's a breakdown to help you prepare this quick and tasty dish!
Essential ingredients for the sauce
The foundation of your sauce is crucial for infusing flavor into your chow mein. Here are the ingredients you'll need:
- 2 tablespoon Cornflour – This will thicken your sauce perfectly, but be sure to mix it well to avoid lumps. Note that in the UK, cornflour is known as cornstarch in the US.
- 1 tablespoon Soft dark brown sugar – This adds a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- 2 Garlic cloves – Crushed for that aromatic kick.
- 4 tablespoon Dark soy sauce – A must-have for color and depth of flavor.
- 4 tablespoon Oyster sauce – This brings umami notes, making your chow mein irresistible.
- 300 ml Chicken stock – Feel free to use a cube for convenience; it adds richness to the sauce!
Key ingredients for the stir fry
Now, onto the main ingredients that will give your chicken chow mein its hearty texture:
- 1 tablespoon Sunflower oil – Perfect for frying and bringing everything together.
- 650 g Chicken breast (cut into strips) – The star of the dish! It’s quick to cook and juicy when done right.
- 2 teaspoon Chinese 5 spice – Just a touch will elevate the flavor profile.
- 600 g Stir fry veg bag – Opt for a mix that you like; anything that cooks well in a few minutes works!
- 250 g Dry noodles – These will soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 4 Spring onions (finely chopped) – Optional garnish that adds a fresh crunch.
With these ingredients at hand, you're set to whip up a delicious Chicken Chow Mein that you’ll want to make again and again! Explore more about these ingredients and their benefits at BBC Good Food or check out tips on stir frying from Serious Eats. Enjoy cooking!
Preparing Chicken Chow Mein
Creating your very own Chicken Chow Mein at home is not only rewarding but also surprisingly simple! Follow these easy steps, and you'll have a delicious one-pan meal ready in about 20 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends on the weekend.
Make the Sauce
The first step in your Chicken Chow Mein journey is to whip up a tasty sauce. Grab a small bowl and add 2 tablespoons of cornflour, followed by a tablespoon of soft dark brown sugar and 2 crushed garlic cloves. Add enough dark soy sauce to form a smooth paste. Then, mix in the remaining soy sauce, 4 tablespoons of oyster sauce, and 300 ml of chicken stock (a cube works just fine!). Whisk everything until smooth and set it aside. This sauce is the star of your dish, so make sure you get it just right!
Set Up the Noodles
While the sauce is resting, it's time to prepare the dry noodles. Place them in a separate bowl and pour boiling water over them. Cover with a plate and let the noodles soak for about 10 minutes while you continue cooking the other ingredients. This method keeps the noodles from getting soggy and ensures they absorb just the right amount of water. If you want to learn more about different types of noodles, check out this noodle guide.
Stir Fry the Chicken
Next up, heat 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil in a large frying pan or wok. Add about 650 grams of chicken breast, cut into strips, along with 2 teaspoons of Chinese 5 spice. Stir fry for about 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through. This method locks in those delicious flavors and gives the chicken a lovely golden color.
Add the Vegetables
By now, the noodles should be softening nicely. Stir them with a fork to ensure they’re not sticking together. It’s time to add your vegetables! Toss a 600-gram stir-fry mix into the pan with the chicken and stir-fry for another 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender yet still crisp. The vibrant colors and fresh aromas will make your kitchen feel like a takeout joint!
Combine Everything and Finish
Now, drain the soaked noodles and add them to your stir-fried chicken and vegetables. Pour your prepared sauce over the mixture and stir it well, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens and coats everything nicely. If you’d like, sprinkle some finely chopped spring onions on top for that extra crunch and freshness. Voila! Your homemade Chicken Chow Mein is ready to be devoured!
Enjoy your meal knowing you've prepared something delicious from scratch! For more inspiring recipes, check out Taming Twins. Did you try making this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Variations on Chicken Chow Mein
Vegetarian Chicken Chow Mein
Looking for a plant-based twist on chicken chow mein? Swap out chicken for your favorite protein alternative, like tofu or tempeh, and use veggie stock instead of chicken stock. This version not only retains the delicious flavors of the original but also packs in extra veggies. Think mushrooms, bell peppers, and snap peas for a colorful and nutritious dish. If you're feeling adventurous, toss in some grated ginger for an added kick!
Check out this guide on vegetarian proteins for ideas to amp up your chow mein!
Spicy Chicken Chow Mein
If you love a little heat, consider making a spicy variation of chicken chow mein. Start by adding sriracha or a splash of chili oil to your sauce mixture, adjusting the amount based on your spice tolerance. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during the stir-fry. This version is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warming and invigorating.
Craving more spice-infused recipes? Head over to Chili Pepper Madness for inspiration!
These variations keep your meals exciting while still enjoying the loved flavors of chow mein. Give them a try!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Chow Mein
Prepping ahead of time
One of the best ways to ensure a smooth cooking process is to do your preparation ahead of time. Slice your chicken, chop vegetables, and mix your sauce before you start cooking. This not only saves time but also arouses excitement as you await the delicious outcome. Storing everything in the fridge until you're ready to cook will keep ingredients fresh and flavorful.
Selecting the right vegetables
Choosing the right vegetables is key to a mouth-watering chicken chow mein. Aim for a mix that adds both color and crunch. Bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage work beautifully, but feel free to explore with favorites like broccoli or snap peas. Check your local grocery store for pre-packaged stir-fry vegetable mixes for added convenience!
For more ideas on vegetable pairings, consider visiting Eat This Not That or BBC Good Food. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Chow Mein
Pairing options
When enjoying your chicken chow mein, consider serving it alongside a light, tangy cucumber salad to refresh your palate. You might also enjoy pairing it with steamed dumplings for a delightful mix of textures. If you're in the mood for something crisp, a simple vegetable stir-fry could add a nutritious touch to your meal.
Ideal garnishes
Garnishing your chow mein can elevate its presentation and flavor. Thinly sliced spring onions bring a fresh crunch, while toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor. A sprinkle of fresh coriander or a squeeze of lime can also brighten up the dish. Don’t hesitate to get creative — a dash of chili oil can spice things up for those who enjoy a bit of heat!
By focusing on these complementary elements, you can take your chicken chow mein to a whole new level!
Time Breakdown for Chicken Chow Mein
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready for Chicken Chow Mein takes just about 5 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken, measuring out sauces, and soaking the noodles. Quick and easy prep means you can enjoy a delicious meal sooner!
Cooking Time
In just 20 minutes, you can bring everything together. With a simple stir-fry technique, you'll have juicy chicken and flavorful veggies in no time. Perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous dinner plans!
Total Time
The grand total for your Chicken Chow Mein adventure is 25 minutes. That’s it! A quick home-cooked meal that beats takeout any day. Think of it as a satisfying midweek treat that leaves you feeling accomplished.
For more tips on speeding up your cooking, check out these time-saving kitchen hacks and get even more from your weeknight meals!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Chow Mein
Calories per serving
A hearty serving of this chicken chow mein contains approximately 635 calories. This makes it a satisfying choice for a midweek meal, offering a good balance of energy without being overly heavy.
Key nutrients
This dish isn't just delicious; it's also packed with beneficial nutrients. Each serving provides:
- Protein: 53g, making it perfect for muscle repair and growth
- Carbohydrates: 78g, supplying ample energy
- Fiber: 9g, crucial for digestive health
You can also find essential vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin C, enhancing its nutritional profile. Curious about how those figures stack up against other popular dishes? Check out this resource for more insights into the nutritional comparisons of similar meals.
In addition, by selecting your favorite vegetables for the stir fry, you can amplify the nutrient content and tailor the dish to your taste. So, why not experiment with some colorful veggies? Your body will thank you for it!
FAQs about Chicken Chow Mein
What if I can’t find oyster sauce?
No oyster sauce? No problem! You can create a fantastic substitute using a mix of soy sauce, sugar, and a dash of sesame oil. A combination of soy sauce and hoisin sauce also works wonders. Just remember, whichever option you choose, it'll add its unique flair to your Chicken Chow Mein.
Can I use different proteins?
Absolutely! While this recipe highlights chicken, feel free to switch it up. Beef, turkey, or even shrimp can be excellent alternatives that yield delightful results. If you’re going vegetarian, tofu or tempeh can add a great texture, ensuring your Chicken Chow Mein remains deliciously satisfying.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing your Chicken Chow Mein is easy! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll last for about three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to revive the noodles.
For more tips and substitute ideas, check out resources like The Spruce Eats or Serious Eats. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Conclusion on Chicken Chow Mein
In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious homemade chicken chow mein that rivals your favorite takeout. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Customize it with your favorite veggies and proteins for a truly personal touch. Happy cooking!
Chicken Chow Mein {Quick Recipe}
Equipment
- large frying pan or wok
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon Cornflour See notes
- 1 tablespoon Soft dark brown sugar
- 2 cloves Garlic Crushed
- 4 tablespoon Dark soy sauce
- 4 tablespoon Oyster sauce
- 300 ml Chicken stock A cube is fine
Stir Fry Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Sunflower oil
- 650 g Chicken breast Cut into strips
- 2 teaspoon Chinese 5 spice
- 600 g Stir fry veg bag Choose your preferred mix
- 250 g Dry noodles
- 4 Spring onions Finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
Sauce Preparation
- Put the cornflour in a small bowl, add the sugar, garlic, and enough soy sauce to mix a smooth paste. Add the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce and chicken stock. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Noodle Preparation
- Place noodles in a separate bowl. Pour boiling water straight from the kettle over the noodles, pop a plate over the top and leave to soak while you cook the stir fry.
Cooking the Stir Fry
- Heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok and add the chicken with the 5 spice. Stir fry for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is almost cooked.
- Stir the noodles with a fork to make sure they are softening evenly.
- Add the vegetable mix to the chicken and stir for a further 4-5 minutes until softened a little.
- When the noodles are just cooked, drain.
- Add the sauce to the chicken and vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened and coating the ingredients.
- Add the drained noodles and toss to coat everything well. Garnish with the spring onions if using.
Leave a Reply