How To Make Chicken Chow Mein Without Breaking A Sweat

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this comprehensive guide on “how to chicken chow mein.” This delectable dish, a staple of Chinese cuisine, is a harmonious blend of savory flavors and tender textures. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this step-by-step tutorial will empower you to create an authentic and mouthwatering chicken chow mein in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gathering the Symphony of Ingredients

For the Chow Mein Noodles:

• 8 ounces dried chow mein noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup oyster sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped water chestnuts
• 1/2 cup chopped bamboo shoots

Symphony of Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cooking the Noodles: A Dance of Sizzling

• In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add chow mein noodles and toss to coat.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until noodles are golden brown and crispy.
• Add soy sauce and toss to combine.
• Remove noodles from the pan and set aside.

2. Marinating the Chicken: A Symphony of Flavors

• In a separate bowl, combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
• Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
• Set aside for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Searing the Chicken: A Golden Embrace

• In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. Crafting the Sauce: A Harmonious Blend

• In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and black pepper.
• Set aside.

5. Sautéing the Vegetables: A Vibrant Symphony

• In the same skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, celery, carrots, water chestnuts, and bamboo shoots.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender but still slightly crunchy.

6. Reuniting the Symphony: Noodles, Chicken, and Vegetables

• Add cooked noodles, chicken, and sauce to the pan with vegetables.
• Toss and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until sauce has thickened and ingredients are well combined.

7. A Culinary Crescendo: Serving and Savoring

• Transfer chicken chow mein to a serving dish.
• Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.
• Serve immediately and prepare to be swept away by the symphony of flavors.

The Art of Mastery: Tips for Perfection

• For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• Use a variety of vegetables to add color and texture to your chow mein.
• If you don’t have chow mein noodles, you can substitute spaghetti noodles.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little bit of water or chicken broth.
• Serve chicken chow mein with a side of steamed rice or egg rolls for a complete meal.

A Culinary Journey Concluded: The End of a Symphony

Creating chicken chow mein is an art form that combines the flavors of East and West. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can master this culinary masterpiece and impress your family and friends with your cooking prowess. So, embark on this culinary journey, embrace the symphony of flavors, and savor the deliciousness of homemade chicken chow mein.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to my chow mein?
A: Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you like. Some popular additions include broccoli, snap peas, and mushrooms.

Q: How can I make my chow mein spicier?
A: You can add some chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce to give it a kick.

Q: Can I make chicken chow mein ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make chicken chow mein ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken chow mein?
A: Some good side dishes to serve with chicken chow mein include steamed rice, egg rolls, or wontons.