Name: Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, boneless, skinless; 3 Tbsp oil; 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles); 2 cups cabbage; 1 large carrot, julienned; 0.5 batch green onions; 2 cloves garlic (pressed); 4 Tbsp oyster sauce (or added to taste); 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce; 3 Tbsp light sesame oil ((not toasted)); 0.5 cup chicken broth; 1 Tbsp corn starch; 1 Tbsp granulated sugar

Introduction to Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce

When it comes to quick and delicious dinners, Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce is a go-to favorite for many. Not only is it easy to make, but it also captures the delightful flavors you find in your favorite Chinese restaurants right in your kitchen. Why settle for takeout when you can whip up this delectable dish in less than 30 minutes?

Why Homemade Chicken Chow Mein?

Making Chicken Chow Mein at home offers several advantages. First, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to cater to your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can easily adjust the level of salt and spice by using alternatives, such as low-sodium soy sauce.

Additionally, cooking at home can be surprisingly cost-effective. With a few simple ingredients—like fresh vegetables and chicken breast—you'll create a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and budget-friendly. Plus, the mouthwatering aroma while it's cooking will have your friends and family gathering in anticipation.

Let’s dive into the essentials of creating this quick and delicious meal with a sauce that really elevates the dish! For the best results, follow the detailed recipe below to enjoy a plate of warm, savory, and satisfying Chicken Chow Mein.

Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

Key Ingredients Overview

Creating the perfect Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce is all about using fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you'll need to make this tasty dish come alive:

1 lb chicken breast: Boneless and skinless is best for tender bites.
Chow mein noodles: You’ll need 12 oz of uncooked noodles to achieve that delightful texture.
Vegetables: Think about 2 cups of cabbage and a large carrot julienned for crunch, and don’t forget about green onions and garlic for added flavor.
Cooking oil: 3 tablespoons will help to meld those flavors together nicely.

For a fun twist, consider adding colorful bell peppers or some snap peas for extra texture!

Chow Mein Sauce Components

What sets this dish apart is the sauce, so let’s dive into the essentials for your Chow Mein sauce:

Oyster sauce (4 Tbsp): This adds depth and umami.
Low sodium soy sauce (3 Tbsp): Essential for that salty, savory flavor.
Light sesame oil (3 Tbsp): Toasted is great, but stick with light for this recipe.
Chicken broth (½ cup): Adds richness and helps to keep everything moist.
Cornstarch (1 Tbsp): This helps thicken your sauce for the perfect consistency.
Granulated sugar (1 Tbsp): Balances the saltiness and enhances the umami profile.

With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to making mouthwatering Chicken Chow Mein! If you’d like a detailed recipe, follow along with the full instructions in this article.

Preparing Chicken Chow Mein

Preparing Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a delightful culinary adventure that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends with your cooking skills. Let’s walk through the easy steps to create this savory dish.

Gather all the ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients. This not only streamlines the process but also helps prevent last-minute trips to the store. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breast
3 tablespoons of cooking oil
12 oz of uncooked chow mein noodles
2 cups of cabbage
1 large carrot, julienned
½ batch of green onions
2 garlic cloves

For the sauce, have these on hand:

4 tablespoons of oyster sauce (or adjust to taste)
3 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons of light sesame oil (not toasted)
½ cup of chicken broth
1 tablespoon of corn starch
1 tablespoon of granulated sugar

As you gather these ingredients, consider preparing them in advance; it makes the cooking process seamless!

Prepare the chow mein noodles

Next up, let's get those chow mein noodles ready. Cook them according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves boiling them for a few minutes until tender. Once they’re cooked, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to prevent your noodles from becoming mushy and ensures they maintain that delightful texture when you toss them in the wok later on.

Cook the chicken pieces

Now, let’s turn our attention to the chicken. Heat a large wok or pan over medium heat and add the cooking oil. While the oil heats, cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips. This will allow for quick and even cooking. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chicken pieces and sauté them until they’re golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. After cooking, remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.

Sauté the vegetables

In the same wok, it’s time to bring in some vibrant veggies! Add the julienned carrots, cabbage, and minced garlic. Sauté these together for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp, and the cabbage becomes slightly translucent. This step not only adds color but also infuses your Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce with fantastic flavor.

Combine everything and add the sauce

Now comes the magic of combining everything. Return the cooked chicken and your prepared noodles to the wok. Drizzle your Best Chow Mein Sauce over the mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated. Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Once done, garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve hot, right from the pan, and prepare to impress! This dish encapsulates a harmonious balance of flavors that’s sure to leave everyone craving more. Enjoy your cooking!

Variations on Chicken Chow Mein

Vegetarian Chicken Chow Mein

Looking for a meat-free alternative? Try Vegetarian Chicken Chow Mein! Just swap out the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. You can enhance the flavors by adding a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms. The Best Chow Mein Sauce you're already making perfectly complements a vibrant mix of veggies, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

Spicy Chicken Chow Mein

If you love a little heat, you can't go wrong with Spicy Chicken Chow Mein! Simply add chili flakes or sriracha to the Best Chow Mein Sauce for a fiery twist. You can even toss in some sliced jalapeños while sautéing your vegetables. This variation not only revitalizes this classic dish but also brings a warming kick to your dinner table, making it an instant favorite during cooler months.

Feel free to customize based on your taste preferences and pantry staples!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Chow Mein

Perfecting the Noodles

To achieve the best texture, opt for fresh chow mein noodles over dry ones. If using dry noodles, don’t overcook them; aim for a perfect al dente bite. After cooking, rinse the noodles under cold water to halt the cooking process and to prevent them from clumping together. This simple step is crucial for a delightful chicken chow mein with best chow mein sauce.

Sauce Adjustments

Feel free to tweak the chow mein sauce to suit your taste. If you love a hint of sweetness, add more sugar or use a touch of hoisin sauce. Prefer a savory kick? Consider adding more oyster sauce or soy sauce. Keeping some extra ingredients on hand for adjustments can ensure a personalized flavor profile every time you whip up this dish! For more tips, check out Natasha's Kitchen for expert advice.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Chow Mein

What to Pair with Chow Mein?

When enjoying your Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce, consider pairing it with crispy spring rolls or a vibrant side salad featuring Asian greens. For a heartier meal, serve alongside some steamed dumplings or Chicken Ham skewers. If you like spice, a side of Szechuan sauce can elevate your dining experience. Don’t forget to balance flavors with refreshing drinks such as iced green tea or a zesty ginger ale for a well-rounded feast!

Presentation Tips

Presentation elevates any dish. For your chow mein, serve it in a large, colorful bowl topped with finely chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Place some lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Using chopsticks not only adds an authentic touch but also makes for a fun dining experience. You can even garnish the plate with thinly sliced cucumbers for a pop of color. Elevating your dish visually can make it even more appetizing!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Chow Mein

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce is a breeze, taking about 15 minutes. This gives you just enough time to chop your veggies and mix the savory sauce, setting the stage for a delicious meal.

Cooking Time

The cooking process is quick and efficient! In about 15 minutes, you’ll sauté the chicken, veggies, and noodles together, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Total Time

All in all, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weekday dinner or when you're entertaining friends! Are you excited to dive in? Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Chow Mein

When preparing Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce, understanding its nutritional profile can help you make informed choices. Here's a quick breakdown of the essential nutritional facts per serving:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 340 calories, making it a satisfying meal option without overindulging.

Protein

You can expect around 19g of protein per serving, primarily from lean chicken breast, contributing to your daily needs and supporting muscle health.

Sodium

With sodium content at around 13g per serving, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy Asian flavors without an overwhelming salt intake, especially if you opt for low-sodium soy sauce.

For more insights into creating balanced versions of your favorite meals, check out Nutrition.gov for tips on dietary choices that fit your lifestyle and preferences!

FAQs about Chicken Chow Mein

Can I make Chicken Chow Mein ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce makes for a delightful prep-ahead meal. You can cook the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that reheating may result in slightly softer noodles. If you're expecting company, consider preparing the sauce and veggies in advance, then stir-fry them fresh when it's time to eat.

What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?

If you can’t find chow mein noodles, fear not! You can use alternatives like spaghetti or yakisoba noodles. Alternatively, rice noodles or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) can work well for a gluten-free spin. Just be sure to cook them according to their package instructions before adding to your stir-fry.

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your Chicken Chow Mein fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They should stay good for about 3 days. For longer storage, consider placing portions in freezer-safe bags—just be sure to squeeze out excess air before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat them in a pan or microwave until warm!

Conclusion on Chicken Chow Mein

In summary, Chicken Chow Mein with Best Chow Mein Sauce is a delightful, satisfying dish that combines vibrant vegetables and tender chicken, all enveloped in a flavorful sauce. Quick to make and full of textures, it's perfect for any weeknight dinner. Try it tonight for a tasty and balanced meal!