Chicken Chow Mein
Introduction
Chicken Chow Mein is a beloved Chinese dish known for its savory flavors and delightful textures. This stir-fried noodle dish combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and egg noodles, all coated in a delicious sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress guests, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breast – 1 pound, sliced thinly
Egg noodles – 8 ounces
Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
Oyster sauce – 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
Vegetable oil – 3 tablespoons
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, minced
Carrot – 1 medium, julienned
Bell pepper – 1 medium, sliced
Green onions – 2, chopped
Bean sprouts – 1 cup
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 10 minutes
Total Time – 30 minutes
Yield – 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients needed for the chow mein. This includes chicken, vegetables, noodles, and sauces.
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, salt, and a little cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Cook the Noodles
Follow the instructions on the package to cook the chow mein noodles. Drain and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary and then add garlic, onion, bell peppers, and bok choy. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are just tender but still crisp.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together.
Add Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly in the sauce.
Final Cook
Continue to stir-fry the mixture for another 1 to 2 minutes to heat everything through and blend the flavors.
Serve Hot
Transfer the chicken chow mein to serving plates and enjoy immediately while hot.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu based on dietary preferences.
Vegetable Options
You can use a mix of other vegetables such as carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms for more variety.
Adjusting Sauce Strength
Modify the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce to suit your taste; add more for a stronger flavor or reduce for a milder one.
Storage Recommendations
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that uses high heat and a small amount of oil. It is essential for achieving a delicious, slightly charred flavor in your chicken chow mein.
Marinating
Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness. A simple mixture of soy sauce and other seasonings allows the meat to absorb flavors before cooking.
Blanching Vegetables
Blanching vegetables briefly in boiling water helps to retain their color and crispness. This technique ensures they are perfectly cooked, yet still maintain a nice crunch in the final dish.
Preparing Noodles
Dried chow mein noodles require boiling before they can be used in the stir-fry. Properly cooking the noodles ensures they are tender and able to absorb the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu depending on your preferences.
Can I use fresh noodles instead of dried?
Yes, fresh noodles can be used and will require less cooking time than dried noodles.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with tofu or just use vegetables, and ensure you use a vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce.
What types of vegetables work best in chow mein?
Common vegetables include bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas. You can use any combination of your favorites.
Can I prepare chow mein in advance?
It is best to eat chow mein fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance and stir-fry just before serving.
Conclusion
The Chicken Chow Mein recipe is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. With its quick preparation and cooking time, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gathering with friends and family. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Chow Mein
For a lighter option, try making Vegetable Chow Mein by substituting chicken with your favorite seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas.
Beef Chow Mein
Swap the chicken for thinly sliced beef to create a hearty Beef Chow Mein. The beef adds a rich flavor that pairs well with the savory sauce.
Shrimp Chow Mein
Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. Shrimp Chow Mein is quick to prepare and brings a delightful sweetness to the dish.
Pork Chow Mein
For a different protein, consider Pork Chow Mein. Thinly sliced pork tenderloin or shoulder will enhance the dish’s taste and texture.
Tofu Chow Mein
For a vegetarian or vegan option, use firm tofu in place of chicken. Tofu absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully and is a great source of protein.
Chow Mein with Cashews
Add a crunchy element to your Chow Mein by incorporating roasted cashews. The nuts not only add texture but also a rich, buttery flavor.
Spicy Chow Mein
For those who enjoy heat, you can make Spicy Chow Mein by adding chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce, giving it an extra kick.
Curry Chow Mein
Introduce a unique twist by adding curry powder to your chow mein. This will give the dish a fragrant aroma and vibrant color.
Chow Mein with Homemade Sauce
Experiment with making your own chow mein sauce using ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for a tailored flavor profile that suits your taste.
