If you love takeout-style noodles but want something fresher, healthier, and quicker, this Chicken Chow Mein is your new go-to. Loaded with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory homemade sauce, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami.
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful stir-fry that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant — and the secret? The BEST chow mein sauce ever.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍜 Ready in 30 minutes or less
- 🥢 Better-than-takeout flavor
- 🥦 Packed with fresh vegetables
- 🧄 Homemade sauce = clean ingredients & big flavor
- 🍽️ Easy to customize and meal-prep friendly
Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements – Serves 4)
For the Chicken & Noodles:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for marinating chicken)
- 8 oz chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
For the Best Chow Mein Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
💡 Mix all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl before cooking. Set aside.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook the chow mein noodles according to package directions. Drain and toss with a splash of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Let sit for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and golden (about 4–5 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
In the same pan, add remaining oil. Stir-fry onion, carrots, cabbage, bell pepper, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan. Add cooked noodles and pour the chow mein sauce over everything. Toss well to combine and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the noodles.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with green onions and serve hot with a wedge of lime or extra chili sauce if desired.
Tips & Variations
- 🍗 Use chicken thighs for extra flavor
- 🥬 Swap cabbage for bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli
- 🦐 Try it with shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken
- 🌶️ Add sriracha or chili paste for a spicy version
- 🍜 Use ramen or rice noodles if you don’t have chow mein
Meal Prep & Storage
- 🍱 Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- 🔥 Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water
- ❄️ Freeze leftovers in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving – serves 4)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 670mg
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