Go Back
–+ servings
Chicken Chow Mein

Quick Chicken Chow Mein That Beats Takeout Every Time

This Chicken Chow Mein recipe is a quick and delicious family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Lean protein providing substance to the meal; substitute with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Used for sautéing to add richness and prevent sticking.
For the Noodles
  • 8 ounces Chow Mein Noodles Provides the base structure; can be replaced with lo mein or spaghetti.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Cabbage Adds crunch and nutrition; use Napa or savoy cabbage for best results.
  • 1 medium Carrot Brings sweetness and color; can be swapped with bell peppers or snap peas.
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor; can replace with chives or omit.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall flavor; fresh garlic is preferred.
For the Chow Mein Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Oyster Sauce Primary flavor base for the sauce, substitute with hoisin sauce for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Balances flavors; alternative sweeteners can be used.
  • 2 teaspoons Light Sesame Oil Imparts a nutty flavor; can substitute with peanut oil.
  • 3 tablespoons Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Adds saltiness and color; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Broth Adds richness; vegetable broth can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Acts as a thickener for the sauce; no direct substitute.

Equipment

  • wok or non-stick skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • colander
  • pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, sugar, light sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add chow mein noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same wok, add garlic, carrots, and cabbage. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender yet slightly crisp.
  5. Return chicken and chow mein noodles to the pan. Pour the chow mein sauce over, gently stir to combine, and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens.
  6. Transfer to a serving dish and top with chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for better flavor. Cook noodles al dente and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Double the sauce if desired for extra richness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!