Delicious Pakistani-Inspired Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

by Aleezay Khan

Chicken Chow Mein, a dish that’s as delicious to eat as it is impressive to mention you’ve made, especially when it’s known as a cherished Chinese recipe that has found a special place in the hearts of Pakistani food lovers. This dish combines the rich flavors of tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all nestled within soft, slurp-worthy noodles. The magic lies in the sauce, a blend of savory ingredients that brings the whole dish together.

By following my easy-to-understand recipe, you’ll not only master this dish but also bring a taste of international flair right to your Pakistani kitchen. It’s a culinary journey that promises to be as rewarding to make as it is to share and enjoy.

Ingredients used in chicken chow mein recipe

Get ready to impress your taste buds with the perfect Chicken Chow Mein recipe, here’s everything you need:

1. Chicken Breast: 2 medium-sized, thinly sliced (about 500g) – the star protein that provides a succulent bite.
2. Chow Mein Noodles: 200g, pre-cooked or fresh – the base that holds all the flavors together.
3. Carrots: 2 medium, julienned – adding a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
4. Bell Peppers: 1 large, sliced into thin strips – for a pop of color and sweetness.
5. Green Onions: 3-4 stalks, chopped – for a fresh, zesty finish.
6. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – the aroma foundation of any great dish.
7. Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons – for that deep, umami flavor.
8. Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons – adding depth and richness.
9. Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon – for a nutty, finishing touch.
10. Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons – for cooking and stir-frying.
11. Water: 1/4 cup, to help soften the noodles and mix the sauces.

Cooking Tools required for chicken chow mein recipe

Here are the cooking tools required to make this delicious recipe:

1. Wok: A must-have for stir-frying, offering even heat distribution and ample space for tossing ingredients together.
2. Chef’s Knife: Essential for precise cutting of meat and vegetables, ensuring even cooking.
3. Cutting Board: Your preparation station for slicing and dicing ingredients.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for balancing flavors perfectly.
5. Mixing Bowls: Ideal for pre-mixing sauces or marinating the chicken to infuse flavors.
6. Tongs or Stirring Spoon: To safely and effectively mix and toss your chow mein while cooking.
7. Colander: For draining your noodles or vegetables, ensuring they’re ready for the wok.

How to make chicken chow mein recipe: Step by step process;

Transform basic ingredients into a culinary masterpiece with my step-by-step Chicken Chow Mein recipe:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the chicken breast thinly, julienning the carrots, cutting the bell peppers into thin strips, chopping the green onions, and mincing the garlic. This ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken slices with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Cook the Noodles: If your noodles aren’t pre-cooked, boil them according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. A quick rinse under cold water stops them from sticking together.
4. Mix the Sauces: Combine the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and water in a small bowl. This mixture will be the flavorful base of your Chow Mein.
5. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok over high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s fully cooked and golden. Remove the chicken and set aside.
6. Vegetables in the Wok: Add the remaining oil to the wok, then toss in the garlic, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for a few minutes until they’re just tender but still crisp.
7. Bring It All Together: Add the cooked noodles and chicken back into the wok. Pour the sauce mixture over everything, tossing well to ensure the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated.
8. Final Touch: Stir in the green onions, cooking for another minute. Your Chicken Chow Mein is now ready to serve and enjoy.

Expert Tip

Before adding them to the wok, lightly pan-fry your cooked noodles in a tablespoon of oil until they’re just starting to get a bit crispy on some edges. This adds a wonderful texture to your dish, giving you that authentic, slightly crunchy noodle experience you find in the best Chow Mein. Why does this matter? It’s all about layering textures and flavors. In a dish that’s primarily soft and savory, those crispy edges introduce a delightful contrast that makes every bite more interesting. Plus, it helps the noodles hold up better against the sauce, ensuring your Chow Mein is just as good on the plate as it is on the palate.

Serving Tips

Enhance your Chicken Chow Mein with these side dishes to create a memorable dining experience:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside and packed with vegetables on the inside, spring rolls are a delightful starter.
2. Steamed Dumplings: Filled with either vegetables or a mix of meat, these dumplings make for a succulent side dish.
3. Egg Fried Rice: A simple yet flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of Chow Mein.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned and sautéed green beans offer a crunchy, fresh counterpoint to the noodles.
5. Hot and Sour Soup: Start your meal with this tangy and spicy soup to awaken the taste buds.

Check more sides recipe

Mixed Bean Salad Recipe
Onion chutney Recipe
Cilantro Chutney Recipe
Finger Fish Recipe
Russian Salad Recipe

Storage Instructions

To ensure your delicious creation remains enjoyable, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

To Store:

Cool and Containerize: Allow your Chow Mein to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. This method helps to prevent bacterial growth and keeps your dish fresh. Store it in the refrigerator where it will keep well for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:

Stovetop Method for Best Results: When you’re ready to enjoy your Chow Mein again, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent it from drying out and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps retain the flavors and textures much better than microwaving.

Conclusion

Chicken Chow Mein beautifully merges Chinese culinary heritage with Pakistani palates, offering a delicious fusion of flavors. Embrace the savory satisfaction and culinary adventure it brings to your kitchen. With each bite, savor the harmonious blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles. Elevate your dining experience with this beloved dish that celebrates both tradition and innovation. So, why not share your flavorful creation with friends and family, spreading the joy of Pakistani-inspired cuisine?

Let’s continue to explore and enjoy the rich tapestry of flavors our diverse culinary world has to offer. Don’t hesitate to share your Chicken Chow Mein triumphs with me, and let’s inspire each other on this delicious journey.

Frequently asked questions

What is the sauce in chow mein made of?

The sauce in chow mein typically consists of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sometimes additional seasonings like garlic and ginger.

What is chicken chow mein made of?

Chicken chow mein is made of sliced chicken breast, chow mein noodles, assorted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, and a savory sauce.

Is homemade chicken chow mein good for you?

Homemade chicken chow mein can be a nutritious option when prepared with lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and minimal added fats.

Is chow mein a junk food?

Chow mein itself is not inherently junk food; its nutritional value depends on ingredients and cooking methods, so homemade versions can be healthier alternatives.

Delicious Pakistani-Inspired Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

Discover the perfect blend of Chinese tradition and Pakistani flavors in this savory Chicken Chow Mein recipe. #ChickenChowMein #PakistaniCuisine

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Servings 4 People

Ingredients

  

• Chicken Breast: 2 medium-sized thinly sliced (about 500g) - the star protein that provides a succulent bite.
• Chow Mein Noodles: 200g pre-cooked or fresh - the base that holds all the flavors together.
• Carrots: 2 medium julienned - adding a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• Bell Peppers: 1 large sliced into thin strips - for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Green Onions: 3-4 stalks chopped - for a fresh, zesty finish.
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced - the aroma foundation of any great dish.
• Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons - for that deep umami flavor.
• Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons - adding depth and richness.
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon - for a nutty finishing touch.
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons - for cooking and stir-frying.
• Water: 1/4 cup to help soften the noodles and mix the sauces.

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the chicken breast thinly, julienning the carrots, cutting the bell peppers into thin strips, chopping the green onions, and mincing the garlic. This ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly.
• Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken slices with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
• Cook the Noodles: If your noodles aren't pre-cooked, boil them according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. A quick rinse under cold water stops them from sticking together.
• Mix the Sauces: Combine the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and water in a small bowl. This mixture will be the flavorful base of your Chow Mein.
• Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok over high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it's fully cooked and golden. Remove the chicken and set aside.
• Vegetables in the Wok: Add the remaining oil to the wok, then toss in the garlic, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for a few minutes until they're just tender but still crisp.
• Bring It All Together: Add the cooked noodles and chicken back into the wok. Pour the sauce mixture over everything, tossing well to ensure the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated.
• Final Touch: Stir in the green onions, cooking for another minute. Your Chicken Chow Mein is now ready to serve and enjoy.

Notes

Before adding them to the wok, lightly pan-fry your cooked noodles in a tablespoon of oil until they're just starting to get a bit crispy on some edges. This adds a wonderful texture to your dish, giving you that authentic, slightly crunchy noodle experience you find in the best Chow Mein. Why does this matter? It’s all about layering textures and flavors. In a dish that’s primarily soft and savory, those crispy edges introduce a delightful contrast that makes every bite more interesting. Plus, it helps the noodles hold up better against the sauce, ensuring your Chow Mein is just as good on the plate as it is on the palate.