Name: Chicken Chow Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced; 8 oz chow mein noodles or yakisoba noodles; 2 tbsp soy sauce (for marinade); 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tsp sesame oil (for marinade); 2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil, divided; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (optional); 1/2 onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup cabbage, shredded; 1 carrot, julienned; 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); For the sauce:; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp water; Salt and pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Chow Mein is fast, flavorful, and versatile. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients, and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables. The savory sauce clings to every bite, and the combination of juicy chicken and stir-fried noodles makes this a comfort food staple. It’s healthier than takeout and just as delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced thin
Chow mein noodles or yakisoba noodles
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Sesame oil
Cornstarch
Garlic cloves, minced
Fresh ginger, minced (optional)
Onion, sliced
Cabbage, shredded
Carrot, julienned
Bell pepper, sliced
Green onions, chopped
Vegetable oil or canola oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken with a little soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add more oil if needed and sauté garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant.
Add carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Return the chicken to the pan, followed by the cooked noodles.
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of water. Pour the sauce into the pan.
Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Chow Mein: Add chili paste or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add tofu or extra veggies.
Beef or Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with thinly sliced beef or shrimp.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce.
Crunchy Top: Add crispy chow mein noodles on top for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Avoid freezing as noodles can become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

What noodles should I use for chow mein?

Chow mein noodles, yakisoba noodles, or thin egg noodles work best. Even spaghetti can be used in a pinch.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it during the final toss with noodles and sauce to heat through.

What vegetables work well in chow mein?

Cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, and bean sprouts are great options.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce, slice the chicken and vegetables, and even cook the noodles ahead of time. Stir-fry everything just before serving.

What’s the difference between chow mein and lo mein?

Chow mein is typically stir-fried until slightly crispy, while lo mein noodles are softer and tossed in sauce without frying.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

It adds a rich umami flavor, but you can substitute with hoisin sauce or more soy sauce if needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce, oyster sauce, and noodles to make it gluten-free.

How do I avoid soggy noodles?

Rinse noodles in cold water after boiling and stir-fry over high heat to maintain texture.

Can I add eggs?

Yes, scramble an egg in the wok before adding veggies for extra protein and flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein is a quick, satisfying stir-fry that’s bursting with savory flavor and perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken, crisp veggies, and chewy noodles tossed in a rich, glossy sauce, this homemade version beats takeout any day. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy a restaurant-style meal made right in your own kitchen.