Mastering the Art of Chow Mein: Delicious Chicken Recipes and More

If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, you’ve likely savored the delectable flavors of chow mein. This beloved dish combines stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, and an array of crisp, colorful vegetables, all bathed in a savory sauce. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore simple and easy recipes for chow mein with chicken, as well as traditional Chinese variations. From mastering the art of making it taste like your favorite takeaway to understanding the essential ingredients and techniques, you’ll become a chow mein aficionado in no time.

Chapter 1: The Essence of Chow Mein

Before diving into the recipes, let’s take a moment to understand what chow mein is all about.

What Is Chow Mein?

Chow mein is a popular Chinese dish that consists of stir-fried noodles, typically made from wheat or egg-based noodles, paired with a combination of vegetables, protein (in this case, chicken), and a savory sauce. It’s known for its delightful texture, combining the softness of noodles with the crunch of vegetables and the succulence of chicken.

Chow Mein vs. Lo Mein

Chow mein and lo mein are often confused, but they are not the same. The key difference is in the preparation. Chow mein uses crispy, pan-fried noodles, while lo mein uses soft, boiled noodles. In this guide, we’ll be focusing on chow mein.

Chapter 2: Simple Recipes for Chicken Chow Mein

Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking. We’ll begin with a simple chicken chow mein recipe that you can whip up in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Chow Mein:

• 8 ounces chow mein or egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snap peas, ends trimmed
• 2 cups napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside.
2. Cook the chow mein or egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
4. In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed, and then add the minced garlic. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the red bell pepper, carrot, snap peas, and napa cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the wok and pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss them with the chicken and vegetables, ensuring they are well mixed and heated.
8. If needed, add chicken broth to loosen the mixture and create a silky sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

This simple chicken chow mein recipe is a delightful introduction to the world of homemade Chinese cuisine. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create this dish in your own kitchen.

Chapter 3: Easy Recipes for Chicken Chow Mein

For those looking for an even simpler version of chicken chow mein, here’s a recipe that streamlines the process.

Quick and Easy Chicken Chow Mein

This recipe simplifies the traditional process without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

For the Chow Mein:

• 8 ounces chow mein or egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Set the sauce aside.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the sliced chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and then add the minced garlic. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add the red bell pepper, snap peas, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
8. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss them with the chicken and vegetables until they are well mixed and heated.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

This easy chicken chow mein recipe takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Chapter 4: Chinese Recipes for Chicken Chow Mein

Now that you’ve mastered the simplified versions, let’s explore some authentic Chinese recipes for chicken chow mein that truly capture the essence of this beloved dish.

Classic Chinese Chicken Chow Mein

This recipe adheres to traditional Chinese cooking techniques and flavors.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Chow Mein:

• 8 ounces chow mein or egg noodles
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1 cup napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients and set it aside.
2. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set them aside.
3. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
4. In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and then add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the red bell pepper, carrot, snow peas, and napa cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the wok and pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss them with the chicken and vegetables until they are well mixed and heated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

This classic Chinese chicken chow mein recipe brings the authentic flavors of this beloved dish to your table. It’s a perfect choice for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with your culinary skills.

Chapter 5: How to Make Chicken Chow Mein Like the Takeaway

Have you ever wondered how to make your homemade chicken chow mein taste just like the one you get from your favorite Chinese takeaway? It’s all about understanding the secrets and techniques that make restaurant-style chow mein so delicious.

Tips for Takeaway-Style Chicken Chow Mein

• High Heat: Restaurants use high-powered burners that provide intense heat. To replicate this at home, use the highest heat setting on your stovetop.
• Prep Work: Ensure that all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start stir-frying. Once you begin, the process moves quickly.
• Thin Slices: For a more authentic look and texture, slice your chicken and vegetables thinly.
• Cornstarch Slurry: Many takeaway chow mein recipes use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. It creates a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.
• Wok Hei: This term refers to the “breath of the wok” and is a complex smoky flavor imparted to the dish when ingredients are stir-fried at high heat. Achieving wok hei at home can be challenging, but using a carbon steel wok can help.
• Flavorful Oil: Restaurants often use a seasoned oil that’s been used for various dishes, adding depth to the chow mein. To mimic this, you can use a bit of chicken fat or flavor your oil with garlic and ginger.

By following these tips and techniques, you can create chicken chow mein that rivals your favorite takeaway.

Chapter 6: Chow Mein Ingredients

The key to a delicious chicken chow mein is the selection of quality ingredients. Let’s explore the essential components.

Noodles

• Chow Mein Noodles: These are classic for chow mein. They can be found in most Asian grocery stores or the international section of your local supermarket. If unavailable, egg noodles can be used as a substitute.

Protein

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are commonly used. Slice them thinly for even cooking.

Vegetables

• Red Bell Pepper: Adds vibrant color and a sweet, crisp texture.
• Carrots: Julienned for a subtle sweetness and crunch.
• Snow Peas: Provide a fresh, slightly sweet crunch.
• Napa Cabbage: Adds a mild, slightly peppery flavor.
• Green Onions: A versatile ingredient that adds a hint of oniony flavor and a pop of color.

Aromatics

• Garlic: A staple in most Asian cuisine, garlic adds depth of flavor.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger, minced or sliced, adds a touch of heat and warmth.

Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Provides the savory umami base of the sauce.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and a touch of sweetness.
• Hoisin Sauce: Imparts a slightly sweet, smoky flavor.
• Sesame Oil: For a hint of nuttiness and aroma.
• Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry): Enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Brown Sugar: A subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.

Seasonings

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

Chapter 7: Easy Chow Mein Recipe

Now, let’s dive into a basic, easy chow mein recipe that’s adaptable for all skill levels.

Basic Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

This recipe provides a simple yet satisfying chow mein experience.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar

For the Chow Mein:

• 8 ounces chow mein or egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 cup napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Set it aside.
2. Cook the chow mein or egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
4. In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and then add the minced garlic. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the red bell pepper, carrot, snap peas, and napa cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the wok and pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss them with the chicken and vegetables until they are well mixed and heated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

This basic chicken chow mein recipe is ideal for anyone looking to create a quick and delicious meal at home.

Chapter 8: Vegetable Chow Mein Recipe

For those who prefer a vegetarian version of chow mein, this recipe focuses on the vibrant flavors of vegetables.

Vegetable Chow Mein Recipe

This vegetarian chow mein is a delightful and satisfying option for those who enjoy the essence of vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar

For the Chow Mein:

• 8 ounces chow mein or egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 cup napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Set it aside.
2. Cook the chow mein or egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and become tender. Remove them from the wok and set them aside.
4. In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and then add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the red bell pepper, carrot, snap peas, napa cabbage, and bean sprouts to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
6. Return the cooked mushrooms to the wok and pour the sauce over the vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss them with the vegetables until they are well mixed and heated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

This vegetable chow mein recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the wonderful flavors of fresh vegetables in a classic Chinese dish.

Conclusion

Chow mein with chicken is a dish that beautifully showcases the harmony of flavors, textures, and ingredients that Chinese cuisine is renowned for. Whether you opt for a simple, easy version, a traditional Chinese recipe, or a vegetable-packed delight, the result is always a plate of pure culinary satisfaction. With the right techniques, fresh ingredients, and a dash of creativity, you can master the art of chow mein and enjoy it whenever your cravings arise. So, head to your kitchen, don your apron, and embark on a flavorful journey through the world of chow mein. Your taste buds will thank you!