Easy Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

This Easy Chicken Chow Mein tastes just like takeout – all you need is a skillet and 30 minutes to whip up this delicious dinner!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Healthier takeout recipe: It tastes just like your favourite takeout dish, but it’s made healthier with whole ingredients.
• Quick and easy: It’s perfect for busy weeknights and comes together in less than 30 minutes.

Ingredients and substitutions

• Chicken breasts – you could also make it with beef, pork or tofu.
• Cornstarch – use flour or potato starch instead.
• Sesame oil – olive oil will work, but the dish will be milder.
• Mushrooms – try another veggie like zucchini.
• Carrot – swap out for bell peppers, broccoli, bok choy or water chestnuts.
• Yellow onion – white or red onion would also be good here.
• Green cabbage – try Chinese or Napa cabbage instead.
• Chow mein noodles – you can use rice noodles or lo mein, but cooking time will vary.
• Chicken broth – vegetable broth is the best substitute here.
• Green onions – leave these off if you’re not a fan.
• Sesame seeds – you can skip these if you don’t have any on hand.

Chow mein sauce

• Soy sauce – coconut aminos and tamari are the best substitutes.
• Honey – agave or brown sugar will also add a bit of sweetness.
• Garlic – freshly minced garlic is best but jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch.
• Sesame oil – you can use olive oil, but the sauce will be milder.

How to make chicken chow mein

Step 1: Coat the chicken.

Toss the chicken in cornstarch and make the chow mein sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the veggies.

Cook the veggies until softened.

Step 3: Brown the chicken.

Add the chicken and saute until browned.

Step 4: Add the cabbage and noodles.

Add the onion, green cabbage and chow mein noodles.

Step 5: Stir in the sauce.

Add the broth and sauce to the pan.

Step 6: Cook until thickened.

Cook until the sauce thickens, stir in the green onions and serve.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main difference between lo mein and chow mein?

Chow mein and lo mein are both made with neg noodles, but chow mein noodles are crispier with a mildler sauce.

What are the best type of noodles to use?

You can use Yakisoba noodles, dry or fresh chow mein noodles, or even dry spaghetti. You can also get super adventurous and make homemade chow mein noodles!

How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?

You’ll only add the noodles during the last 2-3 mins of cooking time, but make sure to stir often so they don’t stick together.

What to serve with chicken chow mein

• Veggies: Serve with bok choy, steamed broccoli or green beans.
• Salad: This sesame broccoli slaw would be delicious!
• Sides: Egg rolls or spring rolls are both great options.

Storing and reheating

Storing: Store the leftovers in the fridge for 5 days.

Freezing: Freeze this recipe for 3 months, then thaw in the fridge.

Reheating: Reheat in a wok or a skillet over medium-high heat, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Meal prep tools

• Grab some glass meal prep bowls if you plan on turning this recipe into your weekly lunches.
• I get all my free-range chicken from Butcher Box, conveniently delivered to me frozen.