Chow Mein is a beloved Chinese dish known for its delicious blend of crispy stir-fried noodles, tender vegetables, and a savory sauce. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or looking for an easy dish to impress your family and friends, this Best Chow Mein Recipe offers all the goodness of restaurant-style chow mein right at home. This simple yet flavorful Easy Chow Mein Recipe will make you wonder why you ever considered takeout.
In this article, we will explore the Chow Mein Recipe from start to finish, using a blend of easy ingredients that result in a satisfying meal. If you’re a fan of Easy Delicious Dinners, then this is a recipe you should definitely try.
What is Chow Mein?
Chow Mein translates directly to “fried noodles” in Chinese, and it is a staple dish in Chinese cuisine. The dish consists of stir-fried noodles combined with vegetables and meat or seafood, all sautéed together in a savory sauce. Chow Mein can be made in various ways—sometimes with crispy noodles or with soft, stir-fried noodles. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to personal preferences.
While Chow Mein Noodles are typically used for this dish, you can also substitute with other types of noodles such as lo mein noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch. The key to a great chow mein lies in balancing the flavors of the sauce and perfectly stir-frying the ingredients.
Key Ingredients for the Best Chow Mein Recipe
Making Chow Mein Noodles at home is easier than you think, and the ingredients are quite simple to find. Here’s what you need for the Chicken Chow Mein recipe:
For the Chow Mein Noodles:
- Chow Mein noodles or any stir-fry noodles (you can find them in most grocery stores or Asian markets).
- Chicken breast or thighs, sliced thinly (for a Chicken Chow Mein version).
- Vegetables:
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green).
- Carrots (julienned).
- Cabbage (shredded).
- Green onions (chopped).
- Garlic (minced).
- Ginger (grated, for extra flavor).
For the Sauce:
- Soy sauce: This is the base of the sauce, contributing that classic savory flavor.
- Oyster sauce: Adds umami and depth to the sauce.
- Sesame oil: For that rich, nutty fragrance that complements the noodles.
- Sugar: A pinch of sugar balances the savory and salty components.
- Rice vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the flavors.
- Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent to give the sauce the perfect consistency.
For Cooking:
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil: Used for stir-frying the ingredients.
- Water: To cook the noodles if they are dry.
How to Make Easy Chow Mein at Home: Step-by-Step
Creating the perfect Chow Mein doesn’t require professional cooking skills—this Easy Chow Mein Recipe is designed for anyone, regardless of experience. Follow these steps to make your own delicious Chow Mein Noodles at home.
Step 1: Preparing the Noodles
Start by cooking the noodles. If you’re using dried Chow Mein Noodles, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.
If you’re using fresh Chow Mein Noodles, they require less cooking time, and the process is similar. Just be sure to drain and rinse them once done.
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
While the noodles are cooking, it’s time to prepare the Chicken Chow Mein components. Slice the chicken breast or thighs thinly against the grain. This helps the chicken cook quickly and ensures it stays tender.
Next, prepare the vegetables: julienne the carrots, slice the bell peppers into thin strips, and shred the cabbage. Chop the green onions, saving some for garnish. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. These ingredients will infuse the dish with wonderful flavor.
Step 3: Making the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the following to create the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the sauce)
Stir the sauce mixture together until the cornstarch is completely dissolved.
Step 4: Stir-Frying the Ingredients
Now it’s time for the fun part: cooking everything in a wok or a large skillet. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable or peanut oil in the wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken to the wok and stir-fry until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. This should take about 5-6 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
- In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed, then add the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while still retaining some crunch.
- Return the cooked chicken to the wok and add the Chow Mein Noodles. Stir everything together.
Step 5: Adding the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together to evenly coat the noodles in the sauce. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the noodles absorb the flavor.
Step 6: Serving Your Chow Mein
Once everything is well combined and cooked through, serve your Chicken Chow Mein hot. Garnish with the reserved chopped green onions and enjoy your easy and delicious dinner.
Why This Recipe is the Best Chow Mein Recipe
This Chow Mein Recipe is not only easy but also customizable. You can easily substitute the chicken with other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, you can use any vegetables you have on hand—Chow Mein Noodles are versatile and can be made with whatever veggies are in season or that you prefer.
The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil gives this dish a deep, savory flavor, while the touch of rice vinegar and sugar balances out the richness, making it an irresistible meal. Whether you’re in the mood for Easy Delicious Dinners or just want to try something new in the kitchen, this recipe is a perfect choice.
A Dish for Any Occasion
This Easy Chow Mein Recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, lunch boxes, or even a casual dinner party. It’s quick to prepare, but the flavors feel authentic and satisfying. It’s a one-pan dish that doesn’t take much time to cook, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Best Chow Mein Recipe offers a simple and satisfying way to make restaurant-quality Chow Mein Noodles at home. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, and the fact that you can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables makes it a great choice for family meals or dinner gatherings. With this Easy Chow Mein Recipe, you’ll have the perfect dish for any occasion, full of flavor and texture.
So why wait for takeout when you can enjoy a homemade Chicken Chow Mein that’s healthier, fresher, and just as delicious? Try this recipe today, and you’ll have your own signature chow mein that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
