Name: Savory Chicken Chow Mein: Your Quick Weeknight Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon cornflour (arrowroot powder as an alternative); 2 tablespoons soft dark brown sugar (light brown sugar for a milder taste); 3 cloves garlic (freshly crushed); 4 tablespoons dark soy sauce (reduced sodium if needed); 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (substitute with mushroom sauce for vegetarian); 1 cup chicken stock (vegetable stock for vegetarian version); 2 tablespoons sunflower oil (can substitute with vegetable or peanut oil); 1 pound chicken breast (can substitute with beef, pork, or tofu); 1 teaspoon Chinese 5 spice (reduce amount for subtler flavor); 1 bag stir fry vegetable mix (fresh bell peppers and snap peas can be used); 8 ounces dry noodles (dried egg noodles or straight-to-wok noodles)

As I stood in my kitchen, the familiar aroma of sizzling chicken and colorful veggies wafted through the air, taking me back to my favorite takeout spot from years ago. This Quick & Easy Savory Chicken Chow Mein captures that essence, allowing you to recreate a beloved dish in the comfort of your home. In just 20 minutes, you’ll whip up a hearty, one-pot meal that features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a glossy sauce that’s packed with umami flavor. Not only is this recipe family-friendly and incredibly quick to prepare, but it’s also easily customizable to accommodate gluten-free diets, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Ready to elevate your dinner game and impress your loved ones? Dive into this satisfying stir-fry and discover just how easy it can be!

Why is this Chicken Chow Mein special?

Quick & Convenient: This Savory Chicken Chow Mein comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in a single pot simplifies cleanup, letting you enjoy more time with your family.

Flavor-Packed: The umami-rich sauce elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with savory goodness.

Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to cater to various diets—try swapping chicken for tofu or using gluten-free noodles for a delightful spin!

Crowd-Pleaser: This meal is sure to impress loved ones, offering the comfort of homemade flavors reminiscent of your favorite takeout without the guilt.

Savory Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients

For the Sauce

Cornflour – Thickens the sauce beautifully; arrowroot powder is a great alternative if preferred.
Soft Dark Brown Sugar – Adds a rich sweetness; light brown sugar works well for a milder taste.
Garlic Cloves – Freshly crushed for maximum aroma; garlic powder can be used if you’re short on time.
Dark Soy Sauce – Brings depth and umami flavor; opt for reduced sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
Oyster Sauce – Enriches the dish with saltiness; substitute with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian-friendly kick.
Chicken Stock – Forms the base of your sauce; vegetable stock is perfect for a vegetarian version.

For the Stir-Fry

Sunflower Oil – Ideal for stir-frying due to its high smoke point; feel free to swap with vegetable or peanut oil.
Chicken Breast – The star of this dish; swap it with beef, pork, or tofu to experiment with flavors.
Chinese 5 Spice – Adds a wonderful aromatic flair; consider reducing the amount for a subtler spice taste.
Stir Fry Veg Bag (pre-prepped) – A convenient choice for busy cooks; fresh bell peppers and snap peas add crunch if you’re up for chopping.
Dry Noodles – The base that ties it all together; dried egg noodles give great texture, while straight-to-wok noodles save preparation time.

Remember, with this Savory Chicken Chow Mein, you have the flexibility to personalize it to your taste and dietary preferences. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Chicken Chow Mein

Step 1: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine cornflour, soft dark brown sugar, crushed garlic cloves, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken stock. Whisk together until smooth and well-blended. The mixture should have a glossy appearance. Set this flavorful sauce aside to allow the ingredients to meld while you prepare the rest of the Savory Chicken Chow Mein.

Step 2: Soak the Noodles
Place the dry noodles in a large bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them soak for 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the noodles and set aside in a colander to ensure excess water is removed, preparing them to soak up the delicious sauce in the final steps of your chow mein.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced chicken breast seasoned with Chinese 5 spice. Stir-fry the chicken for 6-7 minutes until it’s lightly browned and almost cooked through. This creates a lovely foundation for your Savory Chicken Chow Mein.

Step 4: Add Vegetables
Toss in the stir-fry vegetable mix and continue to stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes. You’ll want the vegetables to remain vibrant in color while becoming tender yet crisp. Stir continuously to ensure even cooking and to maintain that delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.

Step 5: Combine with Sauce
After draining the noodles, add them directly to the pan with the chicken and vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over everything and stir well to combine. Cook this mixture for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and veggies, transforming it into a beautifully savory Chicken Chow Mein.

Step 6: Toss and Garnish
Gently mix everything together, ensuring an even distribution of flavors in your Savory Chicken Chow Mein. For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, consider garnishing with chopped spring onions before serving. This final step will elevate the dish and provide a lovely pop of color.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to ensure freshness. For the noodles, soak them in boiling water and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking; this keeps them tender without becoming mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, just stir-fry the chicken and vegetables, add the prepped sauce and noodles, and cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through. You’ll have a quick, homemade dinner on the table in no time, just as delicious as if you had made it from scratch!

What to Serve with Savory Chicken Chow Mein?

Transform your dinner into a delightful experience by pairing this delectable dish with complementary sides and drinks.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden, flaky appetizers add a crunchy texture and a touch of warmth, perfect for balancing the savory chow mein.
Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad brings a cool contrast, made with thinly sliced cucumbers, onions, and a splash of rice vinegar.
Steamed Dumplings: Soft, chewy dumplings filled with pork or vegetables offer a delightful bite alongside your chow mein’s vibrant flavors.
Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and creamy dessert to cleanse the palate, combining the tropical essence of mango with rich coconut cream.
Hot Green Tea: This soothing beverage enhances the meal with its earthy notes while aiding digestion after the hearty chow mein.
Sesame Broccoli: Steamed broccoli tossed with sesame oil gives an extra dose of nutrients and provides a crunchy element that perfectly complements the stir-fry.
Egg Drop Soup: Light and savory, this soothing soup pairs wonderfully, providing warmth and a cozy touch to your meal.
Fruit Platter: An assortment of fresh fruit like pineapple, oranges, and grapes offers a refreshing end to your meal, balancing the rich flavors of the chow mein.

By thoughtfully selecting these pairings, you’ll elevate your Savory Chicken Chow Mein into a satisfying feast that your family will cherish!

Savory Chicken Chow Mein Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations and make this recipe your own!

Protein Swap: Try shrimp or beef for a unique twist on this crowd-pleaser. Each alternative brings its own distinct flavor, inviting new culinary experiences.
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate fresh vegetables like broccoli and snap peas for an added crunch. Adjusting ingredients not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the dish’s color and vibrancy.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and tamari-style soy sauce to maintain that delicious flavor while accommodating dietary needs. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavorful fusion of tastes.
Spicy Kick: Add fresh chilies or a drizzle of chili oil to elevate the heat level. This small adjustment can take your Chow Mein from mild to mouthwatering in no time.
Herbal Infusion: Top your dish with fresh cilantro or basil for an aromatic touch that brightens up the overall flavor profile. A sprinkle of herbs brings a garden-fresh zing that you’ll love!
Noodle Alternatives: Experiment with rice noodles or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a lighter twist. It not only diversifies texture but also keeps the dish fresh and exciting.
Umami Boost: A splash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can amplify the savory depth. This small addition could surprise your taste buds with an enriched flavor experience.
Add Crunch: Toss in some roasted peanuts or cashews for delightful texture contrast and a nutty flavor. This final touch can make your Chow Mein even more irresistible.

If you’re intrigued by exploring more flavorful Asian-inspired dishes, you might enjoy making Crispy Sesame Chicken or serving this alongside a refreshing cucumber salad. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Savory Chicken Chow Mein

Prep Ahead: Gather and prep all ingredients before cooking. This efficient approach allows for quicker cooking without interruptions, ensuring your Savory Chicken Chow Mein comes together smoothly.
Don’t Overcook Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while stir-frying; it should be just cooked through. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough meat—definitely not what we want for our Chow Mein!
Use the Right Pan: A large wok is ideal as it provides even heat distribution. Cooking in too small a pan can crowd the ingredients, leading to uneven cooking of your Savory Chicken Chow Mein.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. Add extra garlic or soy sauce for a bolder flavor if desired.
Perfect Noodles: Opt for noodles that best fit your cooking style and preferred texture. Dry egg noodles offer a classic touch while straight-to-wok noodles save precious prep time!

How to Store and Freeze Savory Chicken Chow Mein

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Freezer: Freeze portions of Savory Chicken Chow Mein in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Preparation Storage: You can prepare the sauce and chop vegetables up to 3 days in advance. Keep the noodles soaked for up to 24 hours in the fridge for quicker meal prep.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop to maintain the texture of the noodles and vegetables. Add a touch of oil or broth if needed to enhance moistness.

Savory Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my Chow Mein?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, boneless chicken breasts with a pinkish hue and no dark spots. If you’re buying whole chickens, opt for one that’s firm and feels heavy for its size. For a quicker preparation, thinly sliced chicken will cook faster in your stir-fry.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. Leftovers are great for a next-day lunch, making your Savory Chicken Chow Mein a versatile dish!

Can I freeze Savory Chicken Chow Mein?
Certainly! Freeze your Chow Mein in airtight containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. For best results, let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and rewarm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of broth if necessary to keep it moist.

What if my Chow Mein turns out too soggy?
If your Chow Mein ends up soggy, it’s likely due to overcooking the noodles or using excess sauce. To remedy this next time, make sure to drain the noodles thoroughly after soaking and omit any leftover sauce in the pan. A common trick is to allow the dish to cook without a lid for a couple of minutes at the end to reduce moisture.

Are there any allergen considerations?
Yes, it’s important to consider individual dietary needs! For gluten-free options, use gluten-free noodles and tamari in place of soy sauce. Be mindful of oyster sauce if you’re adhering to a vegetarian or shellfish-free diet; mushroom sauce serves as an excellent alternative without compromising on flavor.

Can I prepare ingredients in advance for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chop your vegetables up to 3 days ahead. For the noodles, soak them for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This makes it super convenient for a quick dinner, letting you whip up your Savory Chicken Chow Mein in no time on a busy weeknight.