Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Chicken Chow Mein is one of those comforting, crave-worthy dishes that never goes out of style. It’s warm, savory, packed with texture, and incredibly satisfying without feeling heavy. This version of Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is everything a home cook could want: tender marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, perfectly cooked noodles, and a glossy, flavorful sauce that ties everything together beautifully.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its balance. The sauce is rich and savory but not overpowering or overly salty. The vegetables add freshness and crunch, while the chicken stays juicy thanks to a simple but effective marinade. It’s the kind of meal that feels like takeout, yet lighter, fresher, and more customizable.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or just want a reliable, delicious stir-fry recipe to add to your rotation, this Chicken Chow Mein delivers every time. Even better, it’s flexible. Don’t love one of the vegetables? Swap it out or leave it out entirely. The dish still shines.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• Quick enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests
• Balanced flavor that’s savory without being heavy
• Crisp vegetables paired with tender chicken and noodles
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables
• A homemade sauce that’s far better than store-bought

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Chicken Chow Mein

• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 8 ounces chow mein noodles or spaghetti

For the Best Chow Mein Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated ger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Serving Size: Serves approximately 4 people

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Colander

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step ensures the chicken stays tender and flavorful during stir-frying.

2. Prepare the Chow Mein Sauce

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, chicken broth, sugar, grated ger, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Set the sauce aside so it’s ready to go when needed.

3. Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the chow mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain well and set aside. Toss lightly to prevent sticking.

4. Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

5. Cook the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, add the sliced onion and shredded carrots. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the shredded cabbage and bean sprouts and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently. The vegetables should be crisp-tender, not mushy.

6. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Pour the prepared chow mein sauce over the top. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Finish and Serve

Add the sliced green onions and toss once more. Serve the Chicken Chow Mein hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use extra vegetables or tofu.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and gluten-free soy sauce.
• Spice Level: Add chili flakes or chili paste if you prefer heat.
• Vegetable Swaps: Bell peppers, snow peas, mushrooms, or bok choy work well.
• Protein Alternatives: Shrimp or thinly sliced beef can replace chicken using the same method.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This Chicken Chow Mein is savory, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying. The sauce coats the noodles without overwhelming them, allowing each ingredient to shine. The chicken is tender, the vegetables are crisp, and the noodles bring everything together into a cohesive, comforting dish.

Nutritional Overview

This recipe offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. It’s filling without being heavy and works well as a complete meal on its own.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Slice vegetables and chicken up to one day in advance
• Mix the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate
• Cook noodles fresh for best texture
• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use spaghetti instead of chow mein noodles?
Yes. Spaghetti works well and absorbs the sauce nicely.

Why marinate the chicken with cornstarch?
Cornstarch locks in moisture and creates a tender texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but leftovers reheat well.

How do I prevent soggy noodles?
Drain noodles thoroughly and avoid overcooking them.

Is this recipe overly salty?
No. The sauce is balanced and not overly salty.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep	20 minutes
Cooking	15 minutes
Total	35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Chow Mein straight from the skillet for a casual family meal or plate it neatly with extra green onions for a polished presentation. A wide bowl or shallow plate works best to showcase the noodles and vegetables.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Chow Mein: Add chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture.
2. Extra Veggie Chow Mein: Double the cabbage and carrots.
3. Garlic Lover’s Version: Add extra minced garlic during stir-frying.
4. Low-Sodium Version: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chow Mein Noodles

Chow mein noodles are designed for stir-frying and hold up well to sauces. If unavailable, spaghetti is a reliable substitute that mimics the texture surprisingly well.

Chicken Breast

Thin slicing ensures quick, even cooking. Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Keep the skillet hot to avoid steaming
• Cook ingredients in stages for best texture
• Have all ingredients prepped before cooking
• Stir constantly once the sauce is added

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days
• Store noodles and sauce together
• Freezing is not recommended due to noodle texture

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Approximate Amount
Calories	450–500 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	5 g

Dietary Notes: Dairy-free, nut-free

Expanded Conclusion

This Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is proof that homemade comfort food can be both easy and incredibly rewarding. It’s quick, adaptable, and packed with flavor, making it a dependable choice for busy nights or when you’re craving something familiar yet fresh.

If you’re looking for a go-to stir-fry recipe that tastes better than takeout and fits seamlessly into your weekly meal plan, this is it. Give it a try, make it your own, and come back for more recipes that are simple, satisfying, and made for real home cooks.

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