Chicken chow mein is a popular Chinese stir-fried noodle dish that is packed with flavor and textures. This recipe features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, all combined with noodles for a satisfying meal. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknight dinners. The noodles are cooked until tender and then stir-fried with marinated chicken, garlic, mangetout, beansprouts, and ham. The flavors meld together in the wok, creating a harmonious blend of savory and umami notes. The dish is finished off with a touch of soy sauce, salt, and pepper for the perfect balance of flavors. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to create a delicious chicken chow mein that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of China.
INGREDIENTS:
- 350g/12oz noodles
- 225g/8oz skinless chicken breast fillets
- 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine
- 1 tablespoon dark sesame oil
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 50g/2oz mangetout, topped and tailed
- 100g/4oz beansprouts
- 50g/2oz ham, finely shredded
- 4 spring onions, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Cook the noodles in a saucepan of boiling water until tender. Drain, rinse under cold water, and drain well.
- Slice the chicken into fine shreds, about 5cm/2in in length. Put the chicken in a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil.
- Heat half of the vegetable oil in a wok or frying pan over high heat. When it starts smoking, add the chicken mixture. Stir-fry for 2 minutes, then transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
- Wipe the wok clean and heat the remaining oil. Stir in the garlic, mangetout, beansprouts, and ham. Stir-fry for a further 1 minute, then add the cooked noodles.
- Continue to stir-fry until the noodles are heated through. Add the remaining soy sauce to taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Return the chicken and any juices to the noodle mixture, add the chopped spring onions, and stir through.
- Serve immediately.
TIPS:
- Use fresh noodles or pre-cooked noodles for convenience.
- Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to enhance the dish’s color and nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. You can add more soy sauce for a saltier flavor or a dash of chili sauce for some heat.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables.
- Garnish the chow mein with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh cilantro for added aroma and visual appeal.
YIELD:
- Serves 4
In conclusion, chicken chow mein is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful noodles, and a medley of vegetables. This recipe showcases the simplicity and versatility of Chinese cuisine, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The stir-frying technique allows the ingredients to retain their freshness and distinct flavors while creating a harmonious blend.
To prepare this dish, the noodles are cooked until tender and then stir-fried with marinated chicken, garlic, mangetout, beansprouts, and ham. The chicken is infused with a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil, adding depth and savory notes to the dish. The addition of garlic and spring onions enhances the aromatic profile, while the beansprouts and mangetout bring a refreshing crunch to each bite.
The key to a successful chow mein lies in the proper stir-frying technique. The high heat and quick cooking time help to retain the vibrant colors and crispness of the vegetables while imparting a smoky and savory flavor to the dish. The finishing touch of soy sauce, salt, and pepper brings all the flavors together, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re seeking a quick and easy weeknight dinner or looking to explore the flavors of Chinese cuisine, chicken chow mein is a versatile and flavorful option. It can be customized to suit your taste preferences by adding additional vegetables or adjusting the seasoning.
In conclusion, try this chicken chow mein recipe and savor the delicious combination of tender chicken, flavorful noodles, and vibrant vegetables. Let your taste buds revel in the umami-rich flavors and enjoy the textures that each bite brings. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of quick and satisfying meals.
