how to make

Chicken Chow Mein

Original author:

Chicken Chow Mein is a popular Chinese-American dish that features stir-fried noodles with chicken, vegetables, and savory sauces. Originating from the Guangdong province of China, it was brought to the United States by Chinese immigrants in the mid-19th century, particularly during the Gold Rush era. Over time, the dish was adapted to suit Western tastes, resulting in the now widely recognized version.

This dish is beloved in many parts of the world due to its delicious combination of flavors and its versatility. The blend of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauces creates a satisfying meal that can be easily customized with different meats and vegetables, making it a favorite in both restaurants and home kitchens.

Image of dish Chicken Chow Mein

Ingredients

  • Boneless chicken, cut into thin 2” strips (250 gms)
  • Salt (1/4 tsp)
  • Pepper powder (1/4 tsp)
  • Soy sauce (1 tsp for marinade, 1 tsp for sauce)
  • Vinegar (1 tsp for marinade, 1/2 tsp for sauce)
  • Baking soda (1/4 tsp)
  • Noodles (150 gms pack, sufficient for 2 persons)
  • Garlic, fine sliced (5 cloves)
  • Spring onion/scallions, whites (2 tbsp)
  • Spring onion/scallions, greens (2 tbsp)
  • Shredded cabbage (1 cup)
  • Carrots, fine sliced (1 cup)
  • Green peppers/Capsicum, fine sliced (1 cup)
  • Green Chilli Sauce (2 tsp)
  • Red Chilli Sauce (1 tsp)
  • Salt and pepper to season
  • Oil (for cooking)

Guide

Preparation

  1. Slice garlic cloves, carrots, green peppers, and shred cabbage.
  2. Chop the white and green portions of spring onions/scallions.
  3. Marinate chicken with salt, pepper powder, soy sauce, vinegar, and baking soda.
  4. Boil noodles as per packet instructions or:
    • Boil 1.5 litres of water in a pan.
    • Add noodles, stir lightly to open.
    • Boil for 2-3 mins until "al dente."
    • Drain, rinse with cold water, mix with 1 tsp oil.

Cooking

  1. Heat 1.5 tbsp oil in a wok.
  2. Add sliced garlic and stir.
  3. Add marinated chicken strips, fry on high heat for 3-4 mins until cooked and browned.
  4. Add chopped spring onion whites, stir for 15 secs.
  5. Add carrot slices, sauté on high heat for 30 secs.
  6. Add shredded cabbage and green peppers, sauté for 1 min on high heat.
  7. Add boiled noodles, toss with chicken and veggies.
  8. Add soy sauce, vinegar, green chilli sauce, and red chilli sauce; mix well.
  9. Garnish with spring onion greens, mix, and serve hot.