What To Know
- Cook the chicken for a longer period of time or on a higher heat setting if it is still tough.
- Making chow mein in a slow cooker is a culinary symphony that combines convenience with flavor.
- With just a few simple ingredients and a hands-off approach, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
Yes, you can absolutely make chow mein in a slow cooker. This versatile kitchen appliance transforms this classic Chinese dish into a hassle-free, hands-off meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chow Mein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (16-ounce) package chow mein noodles
- 1 (15-ounce) can bamboo shoots, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can water chestnuts, drained
- 1 (8-ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Chow Mein
1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the sauce over them. Toss to coat and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook Chicken: Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray. Place the chicken and marinade in the slow cooker.
4. Add Noodles and Vegetables: Cook the chow mein noodles according to package directions and drain. Add the noodles, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and mushrooms to the slow cooker.
5. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the noodles are tender.
6. Thicken Sauce: If desired, thicken the sauce by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stirring it into the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish and Serve: Stir in the green onions and serve the chow mein hot.
Variations on Slow Cooker Chow Mein
- Protein Options: Use tofu, shrimp, or beef instead of chicken.
- Vegetable Additions: Add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or broccoli.
- Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces, such as hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, or oyster sauce.
- Noodles: Use udon noodles, soba noodles, or yakisoba noodles for a different texture.
- Spicy Chow Mein: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Benefits of Making Chow Mein in a Slow Cooker
- Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does the work for you, allowing you to relax while your meal cooks.
- Tender Chicken: The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and juicy.
- Flavorful Sauce: The sauce has ample time to infuse the ingredients with its delicious flavors.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a large batch of chow mein and refrigerate or freeze the leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
- Versatile Dish: Chow mein is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, side dish, or appetizer.
Troubleshooting Slow Cooker Chow Mein
- Watery Sauce: If the sauce is too watery, thicken it with cornstarch as described above.
- Tough Chicken: Cook the chicken for a longer period of time or on a higher heat setting if it is still tough.
- Bland Flavor: Add more sauce ingredients or seasonings to enhance the flavor.
- Overcooked Noodles: If the noodles become too soft, cook them for a shorter amount of time.
- Burnt Food: Make sure the slow cooker has enough liquid and that the ingredients are not in direct contact with the heating element.
Final Note: A Culinary Symphony
Making chow mein in a slow cooker is a culinary symphony that combines convenience with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and a hands-off approach, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.
Q: How long can I keep leftover chow mein in the refrigerator?
A: Leftover chow mein can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make chow mein in a crock pot?
A: Yes, a crock pot and a slow cooker are the same thing. You can use either one to make this recipe.
Q: What is the best way to thicken the sauce?
A: The best way to thicken the sauce is to use cornstarch and water. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned vegetables?
A: Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook them for a longer period of time.
