What To Know
- Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of your favorite takeaway dish, chicken chow mein, right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken slices, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/4 cup of soy sauce, chicken broth, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of your favorite takeaway dish, chicken chow mein, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. This comprehensive guide will unravel the secrets to creating an authentic and delectable chow mein that rivals any takeaway masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped green bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped red bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 package (8 ounces) dried chow mein noodles
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the chow mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken slices, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Stir-Fry the Chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add the onions, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, carrots, and celery to the pan.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/4 cup of soy sauce, chicken broth, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine and Cook
- Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Add the Noodles
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan and stir to combine.
- Cook for a few more minutes until the noodles are heated through.
Finishing Touches:
- For an authentic takeaway-like flavor, add a sprinkle of MSG (monosodium glutamate) to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro.
Tips for Success:
- Use a good quality soy sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the noodles, as they will become mushy.
- If you don’t have a wok, use a large skillet instead.
- Serve the chow mein immediately over rice or noodles.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn.
- Use different types of noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles.
- Add a fried egg or two for extra protein.
The Verdict:
With this foolproof recipe, you can now enjoy the authentic taste of takeaway-style chicken chow mein in the comfort of your own home. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create your perfect dish.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it completely before marinating.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the chow mein ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with chicken chow mein?
A: Chicken chow mein can be served with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
