Quick & Easy Chicken Chow Mein That Will Wow Your Family

Chicken Chow Mein Overview

Features:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weekdays or family dinners.

Delicious and Flavorful: The savory sauce combined with fresh vegetables creates an irresistible flavor in every bite.

Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or change the protein source to your liking.

Healthy Cooking: No preservatives like in fast food, ensuring a balanced diet.

Family Favorite: A sure-fire family classic that everyone will look forward to.

Ingredients Preparation

Stir-fry Ingredients:

500g chicken thigh meat (can be replaced with chicken breast or tofu)

250g stir-fried noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles)

200g cabbage (green cabbage or bok choy)

100g carrot (can be replaced with bell pepper)

100g bean sprouts (optional, for added texture)

4 cloves garlic (minced garlic recommended, but garlic powder is also acceptable)

Sauce Ingredients:

3 tablespoons light soy sauce (can be substituted with gluten-free soy sauce)

2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional for vegetarian options)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (can be substituted with tapioca flour)

2 tablespoons sesame oil (can be substituted with vegetable oil)

2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (adjust to taste)

Cooking Oil:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (peanut oil or sunflower oil are both acceptable)

2 scallions (for fresh garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce: Mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, white pepper powder, and cornstarch together and stir well. Marinate the chicken: Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the sauce and let sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavor.

Sauté the garlic: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok, add minced garlic and sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant.

Sauté the chicken: Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Add the vegetables: Add cabbage, carrots, and scallions, and continue to stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but remain crisp.

Add the noodles: Add the stir-fried noodles and the remaining sauce, add a little water, and stir-fry for another minute to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.

Add the bean sprouts: Finally, add the bean sprouts and stir well.

Pluck: Plate immediately, garnishing with sweet chili sauce and scallions if desired. Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added aroma.

Preparation Options:

Marinate the chicken: The chicken can be marinated in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours to enhance the flavor.

Prepare the vegetables: The cabbage and carrots can be pre-cut and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Maintaining Noodle Quality: Noodles should be prepared just before cooking to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Variations:

Seafood Version: Replace chicken with shrimp and sauté until pink and tender.

Vegetable Enhancement: Add bell peppers, baby corn, or peas for added texture and nutrition.

Tofu Substitution: Replace chicken with firm tofu and marinate before sautéing.

Add Spicyness: Add a few chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha chili sauce.

Asian Flavor: Add chopped chestnuts or bamboo shoots for a classic Asian flavor.

Low-Carb Substitution: Replace stir-fried noodles with zucchini or carrot noodles.

Creamy Flavor: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a richer flavor.

Sweet and Sour Flavor: Replace sweet chili sauce with ketchup and vinegar for a sweet and sour taste.

Storage Recommendations:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze: If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat after thawing.

Heating: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water to prevent the noodles from drying out.

Expert Tips:

Hot Pan: Ensure the wok is fully preheated for optimal stir-frying results.

Avoid Crowding: Do not add too much food at once, as this will turn the stir-frying process into steaming instead of boiling.

Marinate Thoroughly: Marinate chicken for 15-30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Flexible Ingredient Substitution: Vegetables or protein can be substituted according to preference.

Sauce Adjustment: Adjust the sauce to personal taste, adding sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.

Eat Fresh: Best eaten immediately after preparation. If storage is necessary, keep moist by adding water when reheating.

Pairing Suggestions:

Steamed Rice: Absorbs excess sauce, creating a perfect pairing with the stir-fried noodles.

Spring Rolls: Add a crisp texture, even better with sweet chili sauce.

Sesame Broccoli: Adds color and flavor.

Kimchi Salad: Provides a refreshing tang, balancing the richness of the stir-fried noodles.

Egg Drop Soup: A warm and comforting accompaniment, enhancing the Chinese flavor.

Chili and Garlic Edamame: An appetizer that adds flavor.

Fruit Salad: A sweet and refreshing finish.