Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Chow Mein is everything you want in a stir-fry: quick, customizable, and full of flavor. The tender chicken, perfectly crisp veggies, and chewy noodles are all tossed together in a savory sauce that’s both salty and slightly sweet. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can swap in your favorite vegetables or protein, and it’s easy to make gluten-free or vegan if needed. This homemade version beats takeout in both flavor and freshness, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

  • 8 oz chow mein noodles (or substitute with spaghetti or egg noodles)

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)

  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 bell pepper, julienned

  • 1 cup shredded carrots

  • 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or mushroom oyster sauce for vegetarian/vegan)

  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce

  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for a thicker sauce)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Cook the noodles: Begin by cooking the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If you’re using another type of noodle, cook them until al dente and set them aside as well.

  2. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

  3. Stir-fry the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, carrots, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but are still crisp.

  4. Add garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the vegetables and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch and water together and add it to the sauce mixture.

  6. Combine everything: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and pour the sauce over the top. Toss everything together to coat the noodles and chicken in the sauce. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

  7. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve the chow mein immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 15-20 minutes

  • Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian/Vegan: For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or snow peas. Use mushroom oyster sauce and make sure your soy sauce is vegan.

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and gluten-free noodles, such as rice noodles or gluten-free chow mein noodles.

  • Spicy Chow Mein: Add chili paste, red pepper flakes, or fresh sliced chilies to the sauce for a spicy kick.

  • Different Protein: You can use beef, shrimp,  instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Chicken Chow Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, you can substitute chow mein noodles with other types of noodles such as spaghetti, rice noodles, or egg noodles. Just be sure to cook them according to the package instructions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time. When ready to cook, simply follow the steps for stir-frying the chicken, vegetables, and noodles.

Can I make this recipe without oyster sauce?

Yes, you can omit the oyster sauce and replace it with more soy sauce or use a vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms for a similar flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, you can incorporate chili paste, red pepper flakes, or fresh chilies into the sauce. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn to the chow mein for added crunch and flavor. Just make sure to cook them until tender but still crisp.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them properly before adding to the stir-fry, as they tend to release water when cooked.

Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?

While chow mein is best fresh, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1-2 months. When reheating, the noodles may soften a bit, but the flavor will still be great.

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Chow Mein is a delicious, quick, and easy meal that’s packed with flavor. The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce combine to make a satisfying dish that everyone will love. It’s customizable, so you can easily adjust it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or want to impress with homemade stir-fry, this Chicken Chow Mein will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy it with your favorite sides or on its own for a complete meal!

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Homemade Chicken Chow Mein

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-fry
  • Cuisine: Chinese
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Description

Homemade Chicken Chow Mein is a flavorful and satisfying stir-fry made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a savory, umami-rich sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 8 oz chow mein noodles (or substitute with spaghetti or egg noodles)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, julienned
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or mushroom oyster sauce for vegetarian/vegan)
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for a thicker sauce)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If using other noodles, cook them al dente and set aside.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Stir-fry the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil. Stir-fry onion, bell pepper, carrots, and cabbage for 3-4 minutes until softened but still crisp.
  4. Add garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the vegetables, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. For a thicker sauce, add cornstarch mixed with water.
  6. Combine everything: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and pour the sauce over the top. Toss to coat and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Use vegan oyster sauce and soy sauce.Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and noodles to make this dish gluten-free.Spice: Add chili paste, red pepper flakes, or fresh chili slices to the sauce for a spicy kick.Protein variations: Try shrimp, beef,  of chicken. Adjust cooking time based on protein used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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