The Best Chow Mein Noodles with Chicken Recipe for Family Dinners

Weeknight dinners demand something spectacular, and these quick and easy chow mein noodles with chicken hit the perfect balance between flavor and speed.

Crisp vegetables and tender chicken dance together in a savory sauce that sings with authentic Asian-inspired tastes.

Home cooks can whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight warrior’s dream.

Pantry staples and simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality dish that satisfies serious hunger.

The noodles absorb rich seasonings, while the chicken adds hearty protein to every delectable bite.

Sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds elevate this recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.

You’ll want to keep this chow mein recipe in your back pocket for those nights when time is short and appetite is big.

Why Chow Mein Noodles with Chicken Are Weeknight Winners

• Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner that comes together in minutes without complicated techniques.
• Swap chicken for tofu, add different veggies, or adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.
• Kids and adults will love the familiar flavors and satisfying texture of these classic stir-fried noodles that appeal to multiple palates.
• Minimal dishes and simple cooking process mean less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Ingredients for Quick Chow Mein Noodle Perfection

• Ramen Noodles: A classic Asian noodle that provides the base for this quick and easy chow mein dish.
• Chicken: A protein-rich meat that adds hearty flavor and substance to the meal.

• Onions, Cabbage: Crunchy vegetables that add texture and a mild, sweet flavor to the chow mein.

• Garlic, Ginger: Aromatic ingredients that bring depth and traditional Asian flavor to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: A savory condiment that enhances the overall umami taste of the chow mein.
• Sesame Oil: A fragrant oil that adds a distinctive nutty flavor to the recipe.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that help to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken and vegetables, providing a light and healthy cooking medium.

Tools to Make Chow Mein Like a Takeout Pro

• Large pot: Essential for boiling ramen noodles to the perfect texture.
• Large skillet: Crucial for sautéing chicken, vegetables, and combining all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping onions, cabbage, and preparing ingredients.
• Chef's knife: Sharp tool for slicing vegetables and chicken precisely.
• Mixing bowl: Used for combining sauce ingredients before adding to the skillet.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps stir and mix ingredients while cooking.
• Colander: Useful for draining cooked noodles quickly and efficiently.

Easy Steps to Delicious Chow Mein Noodles

Step 1: Boil Noodles

Drop ramen noodles into a large pot of boiling water.

Cook according to package instructions until perfectly tender.

Drain the noodles completely and set them aside, ready for their flavor adventure.

Step 2: Sizzle Chicken

Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Drizzle olive oil across the pan, creating a golden cooking surface.

Sprinkle chicken with salt and black pepper.

Gently place chicken into the hot skillet, letting it sear and develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior for 2-4 minutes.

Step 3: Toss Colorful Vegetables

• Sliced onions
• Shredded cabbage

Stir and sauté the vegetables, allowing them to become tender and slightly caramelized, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Create Flavor Explosion

• Minced garlic
• Grated ginger
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil

Pour the vibrant sauce into the skillet, coating the chicken and vegetables.

Let everything simmer and meld together for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce becomes slightly thickened.

Step 5: Mix and Serve

Fold the reserved noodles into the skillet, ensuring every strand gets coated with the mouthwatering sauce.

Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Serve immediately while piping hot and bursting with flavor.

Pro Tips for Flavorful and Saucy Chow Mein

• Rinse cooked noodles with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking, ensuring perfect texture for your chow mein.
• Add a splash of rice vinegar or chili sauce to the sauce for an extra punch of tangy or spicy notes that elevate the dish.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, slicing them thinly against the grain for tender, quick-cooking meat.
• Replace cabbage with other crisp vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to create your own personalized stir-fry variation.
• Lower heat when adding sauce and stir constantly to avoid scorching, maintaining a smooth, glossy coating on the chicken and noodles.

Fun Noodle Variations to Mix Things Up

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, using the same seasonings and cooking method for a protein-packed plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular ramen noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta to accommodate wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for those who enjoy extra heat and a bold flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice to create a lighter, low-carbohydrate meal.

Serving Chow Mein Noodles with a Twist

• Flavor Boost Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch and burst of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Meal Pairing Perfection: Serve alongside steamed edamame or a light cucumber salad to balance the rich, savory chow mein and add refreshing texture.
• Spice Lover's Twist: Drizzle sriracha sauce or add red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a kick of heat, transforming the dish into a zesty dining experience.
• Leftover Magic: Store in an airtight container and enjoy cold the next day as a delicious lunch, or quickly reheat in a skillet for a quick meal.

Keeping Chow Mein Noodles Fresh

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odor absorption.
• Pack cooled chow mein in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Place chow mein in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent dryness, and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

• What type of noodles work best for this chow mein recipe?

Ramen noodles are perfect for this quick dish, but you can also use egg noodles or lo mein noodles for similar results.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and replace regular ramen with gluten-free noodle alternatives.

• Is this dish spicy?

The basic recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce if you want to increase the heat level.

• How can I add more protein to this recipe?

Consider adding tofu, shrimp, or beef instead of chicken, or mix in additional protein sources like edamame or scrambled eggs.

Quick and Easy Chow Mein Noodles with Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Delightful chow mein noodles with chicken brings Chinese street flavor straight to your kitchen. Simple ingredients and quick cooking method make this dish a perfect weeknight meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 5 packets ramen noodles (seasoning packet discarded)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 10 ounces (283 grams) package shredded cabbage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated

Seasonings and Oils:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 3 teaspoons sesame oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare a large pot of boiling water and cook ramen noodles precisely according to package instructions, ensuring an al dente texture. Thoroughly drain and reserve.
2. Fire up a large skillet over medium-high heat, generously coating the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sear in the hot skillet for 2-4 minutes until achieving a golden-brown exterior and initial caramelization.
4. Introduce chopped onions and shredded cabbage into the skillet, stirring consistently and allowing vegetables to soften and become translucent for 3-5 minutes.
5. Craft a vibrant sauce by whisking together minced garlic, grated ginger, rich soy sauce, and aromatic sesame oil in a separate mixing bowl.
6. Pour the prepared sauce directly into the skillet, allowing ingredients to meld and simmer for 3-5 minutes until chicken reaches complete doneness and sauce slightly thickens.
7. Gently fold the reserved noodles into the skillet, ensuring each strand becomes evenly coated with the savory sauce and protein mixture. Plate immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Enhance noodle texture by slightly undercooking them during boiling, as they’ll continue cooking when mixed with hot ingredients.
• Opt for fresh ramen or egg noodles instead of instant packets for a more authentic and healthier chow mein experience.
• Customize protein options by substituting chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef to suit different dietary preferences and nutritional needs.
• Boost vegetable variety by adding colorful bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and vibrant presentation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 960 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg