Chicken Chow Mein is a classic takeout favorite that brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and softly chewy noodles all tossed in a flavorful soy-based sauce. It’s a dish where every bite mixes a little crunch, a little sweetness, and a lot of satisfying taste. The combination of stir-fried chicken strips, crunchy cabbage, and onions makes it a colorful and tasty meal.
I love making Chicken Chow Mein at home because it’s quicker than ordering and you can adjust it however you like—more veggies, spicier sauce, or extra garlic if that’s your thing. I usually toss in some fresh bean sprouts at the end for a little extra crunch, and it always feels comforting and fresh at the same time. Plus, cooking it yourself means you get to enjoy the smell of stir-fried goodness filling the kitchen.
Serving this dish up hot with a sprinkle of green onions on top makes it feel special even on an ordinary weeknight. I find it’s great with a side of steamed rice or just on its own when I’m really craving a noodle fix. It’s one of those dishes that tastes just as good the next day too, so it’s perfect if you want an easy lunch ready to go. Chicken Chow Mein always feels like a little celebration in a bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chow Mein Noodles: These are thin and slightly chewy. If you can’t find them, thin egg noodles or even spaghetti work well. Just avoid overcooking to keep the right texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for lean, tender pieces. You can swap for thighs if you want juicier, more flavorful bites.
Vegetables: Onion, red bell pepper, and snow peas add color and crunch. Feel free to add carrots, bean sprouts, or bok choy for variety and extra nutrients.
Sauces: Soy and oyster sauces bring the key savory notes. For a vegetarian version, use mushroom-based vegetarian oyster sauce or simply increase soy sauce with a bit of hoisin.
Sesame Oil & Ginger: These layer in a nutty, warm flavor. Fresh ginger is best, but ground ginger works in a pinch.
How Can I Get the Perfect Stir-Fry Texture for Chicken Chow Mein?
Great texture is what makes this dish stand out. Here’s how to get it every time:
- Pre-Cook Noodles: Boil noodles until just tender, then rinse with cold water. This stops cooking and prevents sticking.
- Hot Pan & Oil: Use a wok or large pan and make sure it’s hot before adding oil. This helps chicken and vegetables cook quickly and keeps them crisp.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed so it browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Quick Stir-Fry: After the chicken is cooked, vegetables go in and cook just till tender-crisp — that means they’re still a bit firm and bright.
- Combine and Toss: Add cooked noodles and sauce at the end. Toss everything fast and evenly so the sauce coats without overcooking.
These simple steps keep your Chicken Chow Mein fresh, flavorful, and with the satisfying mix of tender meat, crunchy veggies, and perfect noodles.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large wok or deep frying pan – perfect for quick, high-heat stir-frying and tossing ingredients evenly.
- Cooking spatula or wooden spoon – helps you stir and toss without scratching your pan.
- Medium pot – to boil the noodles just right before stir-frying.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing the chicken and chopping veggies neatly.
- Small bowl – to mix the sauce ingredients together easily before adding to the stir-fry.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to change protein while keeping the stir-fry light and tasty.
- Add sliced mushrooms or shredded carrots for extra texture and mild sweetness.
- Use hoisin sauce along with soy for a slightly sweeter, more complex flavor.
- Include a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your chow mein.
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or peanut oil, divided
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 green onions, sliced on the diagonal
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Chow Mein recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious homemade meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Boil the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions until just tender but still firm. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, white pepper (if using), and water. Stir well and set aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Stir-fry the Veggies and Aromatics:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crispy.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the drained noodles. Pour the sauce over everything and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Stir-fry all together for another 2 minutes until heated through.
6. Finish and Serve:
Toss in the sliced green onions, give everything a quick stir, and remove the pan from heat. Serve your chicken chow mein hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds if you like.
Enjoy your flavorful, colorful Chicken Chow Mein with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and delicious noodles!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before slicing and cooking. Thaw it safely overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Chow Mein?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water if the noodles seem dry.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, or bean sprouts depending on your preference. Just adjust stir-fry times so veggies stay crisp and fresh.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian oyster sauce or extra soy sauce. The flavors will still be delicious and satisfying.
