Easy Chicken Chow Mein Stir-Fry: Quick Weeknight Meal (Print Version)

Whip up an Easy Chicken Chow Mein Stir-Fry in minutes! This simple, flavorful recipe brings authentic Chinese takeout to your home for busy weeknights.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Chinese
Dietary: Contains meat, gluten (can be made gluten-free with tamari and gluten-free noodles)

# Ingredients:

→ Stir-Fry Essentials

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
02 - 12 oz fresh chow mein noodles
03 - 3 cups shredded cabbage
04 - 2 large carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

→ Savory Sauce Staples

06 - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
07 - 2 tbsp oyster sauce
08 - 1 tbsp sesame oil
09 - 1 tbsp cornstarch
10 - 1/4 cup chicken broth or water

→ Aromatic Accents

11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
13 - 3 green onions, chopped (divided)

→ Garnish & Optional Bits

14 - 1 tbsp neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) for stir-frying
15 - Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
16 - Red chili flakes for heat (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get your chicken ready for this Easy Chicken Chow Mein Stir-Fry. Slice those chicken thighs into thin, bite-sized pieces. While you're at it, get a pot of water boiling for your chow mein noodles. Cook them according to package directions – usually just a few minutes until al dente. Drain them well and maybe toss with a tiny bit of oil to prevent sticking. I always forget to salt the water here, but it's okay, the sauce has plenty of flavor!
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together your soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. This is your flavor powerhouse for the Easy Chicken Chow Mein Stir-Fry. Make sure there are no cornstarch lumps! This step is crucial, and honestly, a well-mixed sauce makes all the difference. I once rushed this and had little starchy bits in my final dish – oops! Take your time for a smooth, glossy sauce.
03 - Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat with a splash of oil. Once it's shimmering, add your chicken. Stir-fry until it's cooked through and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. I usually do this in two batches if I'm making a bigger portion. Remove the chicken and set it aside. You want that lovely caramelization!
04 - Add a little more oil to the wok, if needed. Toss in your minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant—oh, the smell is incredible! Then, add your sliced carrots, cabbage, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them cooked but still with a bit of bite; no one likes soggy chow mein veggies!
05 - Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Add your cooked chow mein noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over everything. Now, this is where the magic happens for your Easy Chicken Chow Mein Stir-Fry! Toss, toss, toss! Use tongs or two spatulas to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the sauce coats every strand of noodle and every piece of chicken and veggie. Keep tossing until the sauce thickens and glistens, about 1-2 minutes.
06 - Stir in the green onions and give it one final toss. Plate up your Easy Chicken Chow Mein Stir-Fry immediately. It should look vibrant, smell absolutely divine, and have that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami. I love a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick. Honestly, watching everyone dig in is the best part!

# Notes:

01 - Always have your ingredients prepped and ready before you start stir-frying; it moves fast!
02 - Storage advice that actually works from my kitchen trials: store in an airtight container for 3-4 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water.
03 - Substitution I've tried that worked surprisingly well: use shrimp or thinly sliced pork instead of chicken for a different protein.
04 - Serving suggestion that makes this dish extra special: pair with a crisp lager or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large wok or skillet
02 - cutting board
03 - sharp knife
04 - small bowl
05 - whisk
06 - tongs or spatulas

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 18g
Total Carbohydrate: 45g
Protein: 30g

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