Chicken Chow Mein is a classic Chinese stir-fry dish featuring crispy noodles, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables tossed in a flavorful sauce. This dish has gained immense popularity worldwide due to its perfect balance of textures and umami-rich taste.

Originating from China, chow mein translates to “fried noodles,” and its preparation varies across regions. While traditional Cantonese-style chow mein is crispy, the Americanized version features softer noodles stir-fried with a savory sauce. Homemade chicken chow mein allows for customization, ensuring fresh ingredients and healthier preparation compared to takeout.

The heart of this dish lies in its sauce, a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil, which gives it a rich, savory-sweet depth. The addition of crisp vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers enhances both nutrition and texture.

If you enjoy classic Asian noodle dishes, you might also love Lo Mein, a softer, saucier alternative to chow mein. For those interested in the origins of these dishes, you can explore more about Chow Mein and its variations. Ready to make your own chicken chow mein at home? Let’s dive into the essential ingredients!

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein

Chow Mein Noodles

The key to authentic chicken chow mein lies in using the right noodles. Traditional chow mein noodles are thin, egg-based, and slightly chewy. These noodles crisp up beautifully when stir-fried, creating the perfect texture.

If you can’t find chow mein noodles, suitable alternatives include:

Fresh egg noodles – Found in the refrigerated section of Asian grocery stores.
Dried chow mein noodles – A widely available option that requires boiling before stir-frying.
Spaghetti or ramen noodles – Not traditional, but they work in a pinch.

For an in-depth look at the different types of noodles used in Asian cuisine, check out this resource on Asian Noodles.

Chicken Selection

For tender, juicy results, boneless, skinless chicken breast is the best choice. Its mild flavor absorbs the chow mein sauce well, ensuring every bite is packed with umami. Alternatively, you can use:

Chicken thighs – More flavorful and juicier than breast meat.
Rotisserie chicken – A quick and convenient option.

Want to make this dish vegetarian? Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms!

Vegetables

Fresh vegetables add crunch and color to chicken chow mein. This recipe includes:

Cabbage – Adds a slight sweetness and crunch.
Carrots – Enhances texture and natural sweetness.
Bell peppers – Brings vibrant color and a mild, crisp bite.
Green onions – Provides a sharp, slightly spicy flavor.

For more stir-fry vegetable options, check out these Asian vegetable ideas.

Chow Mein Sauce Ingredients

The magic of chicken chow mein lies in its sauce, which brings together a balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. Each ingredient plays a crucial role:

Soy Sauce – The base of the sauce, adding a deep umami flavor. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt. Read more about its history and varieties on Soy Sauce.
Oyster Sauce – Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth. If you’re unfamiliar with its taste, you can learn more about it here.
Hoisin Sauce – Brings sweetness and a hint of spice, rounding out the flavor.
Sesame Oil – A few drops add a nutty aroma and enhance the overall taste. More details on different types of sesame oil can be found here.
Sugar – A touch of sugar balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth and ensures the sauce coats the noodles evenly.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce, giving it the perfect consistency.

Want to make your chow mein sauce extra special? Some chefs like to add ginger, rice vinegar, or chili flakes for an extra layer of complexity. If you’re looking for more variations, check out this Pinterest guide on making the best stir-fry sauces.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, having everything prepped and ready is essential for a smooth stir-frying process. Here’s what you need to do:

Cook the noodles: Follow the package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Toss with a little sesame oil to keep them from clumping.
Slice the chicken: Cut into thin, even strips to ensure quick and even cooking. For extra tenderness, marinate it with a teaspoon of soy sauce and cornstarch for 10 minutes.
Chop the vegetables: Slice the cabbage, julienne the carrots, and cut the bell peppers into thin strips. The goal is uniformity for even cooking.
Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. This ensures a smooth, well-balanced sauce.

Making the Chow Mein Sauce

The sauce is what makes chicken chow mein irresistible. By pre-mixing the ingredients, you allow the flavors to blend seamlessly.

Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch. If you want a thinner consistency, increase the chicken broth.
Customize the flavor: Like it spicier? Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes. Want extra umami? A splash of fish sauce works wonders.

For a visual step-by-step guide on making chow mein sauce, check out this Pinterest board.

Cooking the Chicken

To achieve tender and flavorful chicken chow mein, it’s crucial to cook the chicken properly. Here’s how to do it right:

Heat the oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. A wok works best because it distributes heat evenly, but a large skillet will also work.
Sear the chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breast and spread it out in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to develop a golden brown crust.
Stir-fry until cooked: Once browned, stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. It should be tender but not dry.
Remove from the pan: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. This step prevents overcooking when adding it back later.

Want to explore different techniques for stir-frying meats? Check out this detailed stir-fry guide.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

Fresh vegetables add crunch and natural sweetness to chicken chow mein. Stir-frying them correctly ensures they retain their texture and vibrant color.

Add the remaining oil: Use another tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it in the same pan.
Sauté the garlic: Add minced garlic and stir quickly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the vegetables: Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, keeping the heat high to retain their crunch.
Avoid overcooking: The vegetables should be slightly softened but still crisp. Overcooked vegetables can make the dish soggy.

Want more tips on cooking the perfect stir-fry? Learn more about Asian stir-fry techniques.

Combining Everything

Now that the chicken and vegetables are cooked, it’s time to bring everything together for the perfect chicken chow mein.

Add the cooked noodles: Return the boiled chow mein noodles to the pan. Use tongs to toss them with the vegetables, ensuring even distribution.
Pour in the sauce: Give the prepared chow mein sauce a quick stir (to redistribute the cornstarch) and pour it over the noodles.
Toss and coat: Stir everything together using tongs or chopsticks, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Reintroduce the chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and toss everything together. Stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until the dish is fully heated through.
Add green onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and give the noodles one final toss.

For a visually stunning way to plate your chicken chow mein, check out this Pinterest guide.

Your delicious homemade chicken chow mein is now ready to serve!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Chow Mein

Want to take your chicken chow mein to the next level? Follow these expert tips to ensure restaurant-quality results every time.

Use High Heat for the Best Flavor

A hot wok or skillet is essential for achieving that signature smoky “wok hei” flavor. Keeping the heat high ensures the noodles don’t turn soggy and helps caramelize the sauce, creating a rich depth of flavor.

Cook in Batches to Avoid Overcrowding

Overcrowding the pan leads to steaming instead of stir-frying. To prevent this:

Cook the chicken separately, then set it aside.
Stir-fry the vegetables next before adding the noodles.
Combine everything only at the end for the best texture.

Choose Fresh Noodles for Authentic Texture

For the best results, use fresh chow mein noodles. They cook faster and offer a more authentic chewiness compared to dried noodles. If using dried noodles, make sure to rinse them with cold water after boiling to remove excess starch.

Customize the Recipe to Your Preference

Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
Prefer a different protein? Try shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.
Looking for more crunch? Toss in bean sprouts or water chestnuts.

For more ways to enhance your stir-fry, explore this Asian stir-fry guide.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Chicken chow mein is a satisfying dish on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside your chow mein.

Best Side Dishes for Chow Mein

Pair your noodles with these classic Chinese-inspired sides:

Spring Rolls – Crispy, golden rolls filled with vegetables and meat for a crunchy contrast.
Egg Drop Soup – A light and savory soup that complements the rich flavors of chow mein. Learn more about this dish on Egg Drop Soup.
Dumplings – Whether steamed or pan-fried, dumplings make a delicious appetizer.
Crab Rangoon – A crispy wonton filled with cream cheese and crab, adding a creamy texture.

How to Serve Chow Mein

In a bowl – Perfect for easy mixing and eating with chopsticks.
On a plate – Better for presentation, allowing ingredients to be evenly spread.
With extra toppings – Sprinkle sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts for added texture.

Want more meal inspiration? Check out these creative Asian meal ideas.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage and reheating ensure that your chicken chow mein stays fresh and delicious, even as leftovers. Here’s how to store it correctly and bring it back to life without losing texture or flavor.

Refrigeration: How Long Does Chow Mein Last?

Store leftover chow mein in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator.
It stays fresh for up to 3 days. After that, the noodles may become too soft, and the flavors may deteriorate.

Freezing: Can You Freeze Chow Mein?

While possible, freezing chow mein is not recommended because the noodles can turn mushy upon thawing.
If you must freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month and reheat it carefully to avoid overcooking.

Best Ways to Reheat Chicken Chow Mein

To maintain the original texture, follow these reheating methods:

Stovetop (Best Method)
- Heat a pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
- Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Microwave (Quick Method)
- Place chow mein in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

Want more tips on storing stir-fry dishes? Check out this Pinterest guide on meal prepping noodles.

Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Chow Mein