Chicken Chow Mein

Every time I make this Chicken Chow Mein, it brings back such fond memories of cozy family dinners spent together. The aroma fills the kitchen, wrapping around me like a warm hug, and I can’t help but smile as I remember the laughter and chatter that always accompanies a meal like this. I picture my loved ones gathered around the table, eager to dig into a dish that has become a beloved staple in our home. If you give this recipe a try, I know it will fill your home with warmth and love just like mine!

How to make Chicken Chow Mein

Ingredients:

• Chow Mein Noodles: The star of the show! These crispy noodles add that delightful crunch that makes this dish so satisfying.
• Chicken Breasts: I prefer using fresh, boneless chicken breasts for their tenderness. You could use thighs for more flavor, but I often use what I have on hand!
• Cabbage: Shredded cabbage brings a nice crunch and a pop of color. It’s a staple in Chow Mein.
• Carrots: Sliced thin, they add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful orange hue to the dish.
• Green Onions: These lend a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens everything up.
• Soy Sauce: This is what gives the dish its wonderful umami flavor. I usually opt for low sodium, but regular works too!
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and spice that’s just irresistible.
• Garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It makes everything better!
• Sesame Oil: A drizzle of this oil at the end gives such a lovely nutty flavor. It’s a must!
• Cornstarch: Just a little helps to thicken the sauce and gives it a wonderful glossy texture.
• Pepper: A dash of pepper to season everything perfectly.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cook the Chow Mein Noodles: First, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. You want them just tender, as they will cook a little more later. Drain them and set aside.

2. Prep the Chicken: While the noodles are cooking, I like to cut my chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.

3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat up about two tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.

4. Cook the Chicken: Toss in the diced chicken and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown and no longer pink inside. This is where the magic begins!

5. Add the Veggies: Next, add in the shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry everything for about 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies begin to soften.

6. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, and a pinch of pepper. This mixture is like a secret weapon that will bring everything together!

7. Combine the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Remember, this is where the aroma will start to fill your kitchen! Toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

8. Add the Noodles: Finally, add the cooked chow mein noodles into the skillet and stir everything together. You want the noodles to soak up that delicious sauce for about 2 to 3 more minutes.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is heated through, remove it from the heat and serve hot. You might even want to sprinkle a few more green onions on top for presentation.

Why I Love Making This Dish:

Chicken Chow Mein is a dish that has been on rotation in my household for many years. It’s not only quick to make, taking just about 25 minutes from start to finish, but it’s also a versatile dish that can be adapted to whatever you have in your fridge. I often make it when I have leftover veggies or chicken, and it never disappoints! The colors, the textures, and the flavors blend beautifully, making every bite a comforting experience.

What You’ll Need:

Aside from the ingredients mentioned, you’ll need a large skillet or wok, some cooking utensils, and a couple of bowls for mixing. If you have a good set of knives and a reliable cutting board, you’re all set! Trust me; having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. First, cook the chow mein noodles. Trust me, you want them to be al dente.
2. While the noodles are cooking, prepare your chicken.
3. Heat the sesame oil until it’s just right, then add the chicken.
4. Once the chicken is golden, toss in your veggies for that lovely crunch.
5. Mix up your sauce in a bowl while your veggies are cooking.
6. Pour the sauce into the skillet and feel that warmth envelop your kitchen.
7. Add the noodles and watch them soak in all the flavors.
8. Serve hot, and soak in the compliments from your family.

Tips for Perfect Results:

• Always taste your sauce before adding it to the skillet; a little soy sauce can go a long way!
• I find that adding a splash of rice vinegar gives an extra layer of flavor, so don’t hesitate to experiment.
• If you like it spicy, throw in some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a lovely kick.
• Remember to keep the heat high enough to stir-fry but not so high that things start to burn.

Serving Suggestions and Sides:

Chicken Chow Mein pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some steamed dumplings. If you’re looking for a drink, I find that sweet iced tea complements the dish perfectly. You could even whip up a refreshing cucumber salad to balance out the warm flavors of the chow mein.

Leftovers:

If you’re like me, there will definitely be leftovers! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they should last for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep things from drying out. You’ll find that it tastes just as great the next day!

FAQ Section:

Can I use boneless chicken? You can, but trust me, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both, and the bone-in is always juicier!

What if I don’t like Cabbage? No problem at all! You could substitute it with bell peppers, snap peas, or even broccoli. It’s all about using what you love.

Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Just leave out the chicken and add more veggies or even some tofu for a protein boost.

How spicy can I make this? Just add as much chili sauce or crushed red pepper as you like, and feel free to experiment!

Is there a way to make it gluten-free? There are gluten-free soy sauces available that work wonderfully, and you can use gluten-free noodles as well.

This Chicken Chow Mein holds a special place in my heart, not just for its amazing taste but for what it represents: love, family, and togetherness. This dish has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy cooking!