Every time I make this Chicken Chow Mein, it reminds me of my younger days, filled with cozy family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. The aroma of the sizzling chicken mixed with fresh vegetables somehow brings back fond memories of my mother bustling around the kitchen, always eager to whip up something delicious for us. The moment that first bite hits your taste buds, it’s like a warm hug that wraps you up in comfort and joy.
I remember one particularly rainy evening when the whole family came over. The skies were gray, but inside the house, there was warmth and laughter. I had decided to make Chicken Chow Mein because it felt like the perfect dish to brighten the day. As the savory scent filled the kitchen, my kids couldn’t help but peek in, their curiosity piqued. And when I served that colorful bowl of goodness, their eyes sparkled with delight. I’m sure that once you try this recipe, it will stir your own beautiful memories and create new ones too!
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 1 lb (sliced) |
| Chow mein noodles | 2 cups |
| Cabbage | 2 cups (shredded) |
| Carrots | 1 cup (julienned) |
| Green onions | 1/2 cup (chopped) |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (minced) |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 2 tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp (optional) |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil | For cooking |
I love adding some fresh herbs on top while serving, as it gives such a lovely fragrance to the dish! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate the meal visually, capturing everyone’s attention right away.
Cooking Steps
1. Prepare the Noodles
The first step is to cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. This is a crucial step because soft noodles make a world of difference when mixed with the delicious sauce and ingredients. Trust me, they’ll be perfection! Drain and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken
In a large, deep skillet or wok, I add a splash of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s sizzling, add the sliced chicken breasts. Season it with a little salt and pepper. Let it cook until all parts turn golden brown and are fully cooked through—usually, this takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The smell is heavenly!
3. Remove the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, I transfer it to a plate, allowing it to rest for a bit. This step is key because letting the meat sit can help it retain its juiciness.
4. Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, I add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. I love the fragrance of garlic as it starts to gently sauté—it’s like a reminder that something delicious is coming!
5. Add the Vegetables
Next, I throw in the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir-frying these veggies until they’re tender-crisp is essential. It’s part of what makes this dish vibrant and colorful! You can even hear the delightful sounds of sizzling as it cooks.
6. Return the Chicken
Now that the vegetables are ready, I add the chicken back into the skillet. This is where it all starts to come together beautifully!
7. Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, I whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch (if using). Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables, and stir everything to coat evenly. This sauce brings the entire dish to life and adds that lovely savory flavor we love!
8. Add the Noodles
Now, here’s where the magic happens! I add the cooked chow mein noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to combine everything. You should see the noodles absorbing all those delicious flavors—oh, it’s just mouthwatering!
9. Final Touches
Before serving, I sprinkle in the chopped green onions, giving the dish that extra pop of color and freshness. And don’t forget to taste! A little extra seasoning might be necessary, depending on your preference.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is mixed and heated through, it’s time to dish out this Chicken Chow Mein. I usually serve it warm right from the stove. Let me tell you, your family will gather around, and the chatter will fill the room. You’ll see their smiles and hear the compliments, which makes all your cooking efforts worthwhile!
Why I Love Making This Dish
Chicken Chow Mein holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just a meal; it’s a beautiful memory. Every time I prepare it, I think of the family stories shared over dinner, the laughter, and the bonding moments that happen around the table. It’s not just about feeding bellies; it’s about feeding souls and nurturing relationships.
What I also love is how versatile this recipe is. You can easily switch up the proteins and vegetables based on what you have on hand. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu, and if you have other veggies available—dump them in! Making this dish truly makes me feel connected to my roots while giving me room to experiment.
Tips for Perfect Results
Cook Your Noodles Just Right: Overcooking the noodles can turn them mushy. Keep a close eye on them, as they’ll keep cooking a bit even after you remove them from the heat.
Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the vegetables, the brighter your chow mein will taste. A quick trip to the farmer’s market can make all the difference.
Don’t Skip on Flavor: Make sure to taste as you go. If you enjoy a little kick, feel free to add some chili sauce!
Enjoy the Process: Cooking is as much about the experience as it is about the result. Be sure to relish the smells and visuals—those memories are just as sweet!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
With Chicken Chow Mein being so satisfying on its own, I usually serve it with a simple side salad or some light spring rolls. The crunch of fresh veggies in a salad pairs perfectly with the warm, savory chow mein. Also, a side of soy sauce or chili oil can keep things exciting for those who like a little dip or zest!
If you really want to take it up a notch, consider serving this dish with some homemade dumplings. Trust me; they’ll complement the chow mein beautifully!
Leftovers
If you’ve managed to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out. Just like that, you have another delightful meal ready to go!
I can’t express enough how comforting it feels to have a dish like this that can effortlessly turn any day around. When the cravings hit, just reheat, and you’re back to that cozy kitchen aroma!
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless chicken? You absolutely can! But let me share this little secret—I’ve always found that using bone-in chicken gives a much richer flavor. The bones help keep the meat juicier and more flavorful.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas would be fabulous additions. Just remember to sauté them until they’re tender-crisp, so they add that lovely crunch.
What if I don’t have chow mein noodles? No worries! You can substitute them with spaghetti or even rice noodles. The flavors will still shine, and you’ll have a delicacy no matter what noodles you choose.
Conclusion
This Chicken Chow Mein has become a comforting staple in our household—a dish that brings love, joy, and togetherness. I’m so excited for you to try it! I know once you take that first bite, your family will be asking for more. It’s easy to make and ensures a delightful experience that warms the heart.
Please let me know how your version turns out! I can’t wait to hear your stories and memories that are sparked by this delicious dish. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a gathering of friends, Chicken Chow Mein is bound to create cherished moments. Enjoy cooking, and remember: every meal is an opportunity to create connections!