Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese stir-fried noodle dish. It features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and delicious noodles tossed in a savory sauce. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or just looking to try something new, this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 250g chicken breast, sliced
- 200g chow mein noodles
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, salt, and sugar. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it is cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same wok, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir-fry the minced garlic until fragrant. Then, add the julienned carrot, sliced bell peppers, and onion. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked noodles and the cooked chicken back into the wok with the vegetables. Drizzle with hoisin sauce and toss everything together until well combined. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the noodles are heated through.
Variations
There are several ways to customize this Chicken Chow Mein recipe to suit your taste:
- Swap the chicken breast for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bean sprouts, or broccoli.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding chili garlic sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables or plant-based protein.
Tips
- Prep all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Use a high heat oil like vegetable or peanut oil for stir-frying to prevent sticking.
- Do not overcook the vegetables to retain their crunchiness and vibrant colors.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Add more soy sauce for saltiness or more sugar for sweetness.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro for added flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
Chicken Chow Mein is a delicious and satisfying Chinese dish that can be made easily at home. With its combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both adults and children. By following this recipe and customizing it to your liking, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. So, grab your wok and get ready to stir-fry your way to a delightful Chicken Chow Mein!
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles like egg noodles or rice noodles as a substitute for chow mein noodles. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make Chicken Chow Mein in advance?
While it’s best to enjoy Chicken Chow Mein fresh, you can make it in advance and reheat it. However, keep in mind that the noodles may become softer when reheated.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
It is not recommended to freeze Chicken Chow Mein as the texture of the noodles may change after thawing.
4. Is Chicken Chow Mein a spicy dish?
No, Chicken Chow Mein is not traditionally a spicy dish. However, you can add chili garlic sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to add some heat if desired.
