As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables caught my eye, beckoning me to create something delightful. It’s easy to get trapped in the cycle of takeout and fast food, but every now and then, a spark of inspiration reminds me why homemade meals are so special. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein—a dish that dances on your palate and wraps you in warmth like a cozy hug from an old friend.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance: tender chicken marinated in sesame and soy, nestled amongst perfectly cooked chow mein noodles and crunchy veggies. With each bite, the savory, slightly sweet flavors come alive, transforming a simple dinner into a feast that rivals your favorite local Chinese restaurant. Plus, it all comes together in under 30 minutes, making this dish a go-to for any weeknight craving. Ready to wow your tastebuds? Let’s dive into this delicious journey of flavors!
Why is Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein a Must-Try?
Deliciousness at its finest: The rich combination of marinated chicken, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful sauces provides an irresistible taste that will transport you straight to a bustling Chinese eatery.
Quick and easy: With just a bit of marinating time and a swift cooking process, you can whip up this delightful dish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Perfectly balanced: This recipe boasts a wonderful interplay of textures; from the tender chicken to the crispy veggies and chewy noodles, each bite offers a delightful crunch.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this chow mein will easily satisfy cravings and impress everyone at the table.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein to make it truly your own. If you’re curious for more chow mein varieties, check out some of my other delicious creations!
Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
Delve into the delightful components of this dish!
For the Marinade
• Water – helps to combine ingredients and hydrate the chicken.
• Rice wine vinegar – adds a tangy flavor to the chicken.
• Soy sauce – enhances the umami richness in the dish.
• Cornstarch – acts as a tenderizer for the chicken and thickens the sauce.
• Sesame oil – infuses a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
• Ground black pepper – gives a subtle kick to the marinade.
For the Chicken
• Skinless, boneless chicken breast half – tender protein that absorbs flavors beautifully.
For the Sauce
• Chicken broth – adds depth and moisture to the chow mein.
• Soy sauce – brings vibrant savory notes to the mix.
• Oyster sauce – contributes a sweet and savory complexity.
• Rice wine vinegar – brightens the overall flavor profile.
• White sugar – balances the savory ingredients with a hint of sweetness.
For the Noodles and Vegetables
• Canola oil – used for sautéing; its light flavor won’t overpower the dish.
• Chow mein noodles – chewy base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Celery – adds a refreshing crunch with a slightly peppery flavor.
• Carrot – brings sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Bean sprouts – provide a crisp texture and fresh bite.
• Onion – adds sweetness and depth to the vegetable medley.
• Green onion – fresh topping for a burst of flavor and color.
Now you’re all set to make your own delicious Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein at home!
How to Make Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein
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Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine water, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Add the sliced chicken, ensuring it’s well coated, and marinate for 15 minutes to absorb those delightful flavors.
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Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned.
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Set Aside Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy while you prepare the veggies.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining canola oil. Toss in the sliced onion, celery, and carrot, sautéing them for around 3-4 minutes until they are tender and the colors brighten.
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Add Noodles: Stir in the chow mein noodles with the sautéed vegetables. Ensure they are mixed well, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine vinegar, and white sugar. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce is heated through and coats the noodles well.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the bean sprouts and green onion. Gently toss all ingredients together until fully combined and heated. Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with additional sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein?
Imagine a colorful spread that enhances the delightful flavors of your chow mein, bringing joy to your dinner table.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites filled with vegetables create a delightful contrast to the soft noodles and tender chicken.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add a fresh, slightly bitter note, perfectly balancing the savory richness of the chow mein.
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Sweet and Sour Chicken: The tangy sweetness of this dish harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of your chow mein, making for a satisfying meal.
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Egg Drop Soup: A warm, comforting broth with silky egg ribbons provides a beautiful, light accompaniment that complements the richness of the chow mein.
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Garlic Fried Rice: This fragrant dish offers an aromatic experience that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes in your chow mein.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy salad with a hint of sesame that cleanses the palate and adds a vibrant touch to your dining experience.
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Lychee Martini: This fruity cocktail adds a sweet twist to your meal, enhancing the Asian-inspired flavors in a beautiful way.
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Fortune Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with these delightful treats, adding a fun and festive finish to your home-cooked dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of chicken chow mein in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Ensure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Heat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, or microwave in short intervals.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it fresh, but if you have leftovers, this dish can still delight your taste buds even after being stored!
Make Ahead Options
These Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to allow those flavors to deepen and develop. Simply combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl, add the chicken, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (onion, celery, carrot) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the chicken and vegetables as outlined in the instructions, add the prepped chow mein noodles and sauce mixture, and toss everything together for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein
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Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step ensures it absorbs all the flavors, making it more tender and tasty.
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Heat Control: Maintain medium heat while stir-frying. Too high a temperature can burn the chicken while leaving it undercooked inside. Balance is key!
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Veggie Variety: Feel free to substitute or add vegetables according to your taste. Just remember to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.
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Noodle Cooking: Do not overcook the chow mein noodles; they should be al dente to soak up the savory sauce without turning mushy.
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Sauce Consistency: Adjust the sauce consistency with extra chicken broth or a bit more cornstarch if it feels too runny. Aim for a glaze-like finish.
Enjoy your journey into making the perfect Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein!
Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with fun twists on a classic favorite!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free chow mein noodles for a celiac-friendly version.
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or edamame, maintaining the marinade for extra flavor. This variation offers a wholesome plant-based alternative.
- Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the stir-fry for a kick that brings warmth and depth to each bite.
- Crunchy: Toss in some water chestnuts or bell peppers for added crunch and a burst of color. They add delightful texture to your chow mein!
- Herby Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving. Their aromatic freshness will brighten the flavor profile.
- Protein-Rich: Consider mixing in shrimp or beef, marinated similarly to the chicken, for a meaty boost that will truly satisfy savory cravings.
- Coconut Flavor: Replace sesame oil with coconut oil for a hint of sweetness, adding an exciting tropical twist to the overall taste.
- Noodle Variations: Try swapping chow mein noodles with rice noodles or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) to make a lighter, yet equally delicious dish.
Feel inspired to experiment, turning this beloved recipe into your unique culinary creation!
Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for my chow mein?
When selecting vegetables, look for bright colors and firm textures. Avoid any with dark spots, wilting, or softness. For instance, choose crisp celery, shiny carrots, and fresh green onions, ensuring they add the right crunch and flavor to your Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein.
How should I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, place your Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I freeze Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the chow mein cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth for added moisture.
What should I do if the noodles get mushy?
If your chow mein noodles turn mushy, it’s likely due to overcooking them. Remember to cook them only until al dente, as they’ll continue to soften when mixed with the hot sauce. If they do end up mushy, try adding a bit more chicken broth to adjust the consistency and balance the flavors again.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If serving to someone with allergies, be cautious of soy sauce and oyster sauce, as they contain gluten and shellfish, respectively. You can substitute gluten-free soy sauce and leave out the oyster sauce or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a delicious, allergy-friendly version of Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein.
Delicious Cantonese Chicken Chow Mein to Satisfy Your Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine water, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Add the sliced chicken, ensuring it's well coated, and marinate for 15 minutes to absorb those delightful flavors.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Set Aside Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining canola oil. Toss in the sliced onion, celery, and carrot, sautéing them for around 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
- Add Noodles: Stir in the chow mein noodles with the sautéed vegetables and mix well.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine vinegar, and white sugar. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with bean sprouts and green onion. Toss all ingredients together until fully combined and heated.