Spicy Chicken Chow Mein

Spicy Chicken Chow Mein is a classic Asian-inspired stir-fry dish that combines tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a bold, spicy sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, ideal for weeknights and far better than takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy evenings. It offers a great balance of spice, sweetness, and savory depth, while being highly customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables. The combination of textures and flavors will make this a regular in your dinner rotation.

ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced thin
• Chow mein or egg noodles
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Rice vinegar or mirin
• Brown sugar
• Chili garlic sauce or red chili flakes
• Carrot, julienned
• Bell peppers, sliced
• Spring onions, chopped
• Vegetable or sesame oil
• Fresh coriander or green onions for garnish

directions

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and chili garlic sauce.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Sauté garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the spring onions for 30 seconds.
5. Add carrots and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
6. Return the chicken to the pan. Add the cooked noodles and pour in the sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions or coriander before serving.

Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Replace chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use plant-based protein along with vegetarian oyster sauce.
• Add vegetables such as snap peas, mushrooms, or cabbage.
• Use gluten-free tamari and noodles if needed.

storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a small splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the noodles may become too soft.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, just add it at the end of cooking to heat through without drying it out.

Is chow mein the same as lo mein?
Not quite. Chow mein noodles are typically thinner and slightly crispier when stir-fried, while lo mein noodles are softer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made ahead and reheated. The flavors may even deepen after a day.

How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit the chili garlic sauce and red pepper flakes.

Can I add a sauce thickener?
If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the pan while tossing everything together.

What type of oil should I use?
Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil are best, but sesame oil can be added at the end for flavor.

How do I prevent soggy noodles?
Do not overcook the noodles and avoid letting them sit in the sauce too long after cooking.

Can I add peanuts or cashews?
Yes, they can be added as a topping for crunch and flavor.

Is it possible to make this in one pot?
If your pot is large enough, yes. Cook the noodles first, drain, and then use the same pot for stir-frying.

What’s the best noodle to use?
Chow mein noodles or thin egg noodles are ideal, but ramen or spaghetti can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion
Spicy Chicken Chow Mein is an effortless yet bold dish packed with flavor and texture. With its quick cooking time and flexible ingredients, it’s a go-to option for anyone seeking a satisfying homemade stir-fry. Whether you serve it for dinner or pack it for lunch, it delivers a delicious experience every time.

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