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A close-up overhead shot of chow mein noodles being stir-fried in a wok with chicken and fresh vegetables like carrots and cabbage.

Chow Mein Recipe (Better Than Takeout)

This quick and easy Chow Mein Recipe delivers authentic, better-than-takeout flavor in just 25 minutes. Learn how to make the perfect savory sauce for this customizable chicken, beef, or vegetable stir-fried noodle dish for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chow Mein Sauce
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp ginger freshly minced
  • 2 cloves garlic freshly minced
For the Stir Fry
  • 1 lb chow mein noodles fresh or dried
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast thinly sliced
  • 3 cups cabbage shredded
  • 1 cup carrots julienned
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1/2 cup scallions sliced
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil like canola or avocado oil, divided

Equipment

  • 1 Wok or Large Skillet
  • 1 Small Bowl For mixing the sauce.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, brown sugar, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of oil in the wok. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but remain crisp.
  5. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the wok. Add the cooked noodles, bean sprouts, and the prepared chow mein sauce. Toss everything together for 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and everything is well-coated. Stir in the sliced scallions during the last 30 seconds. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pro Tip: Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as the stir-frying process is very fast.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.