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A close-up shot of homemade chow mein noodles being stir-fried in a wok with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce.

Chow Mein Recipe (Better Than Takeout)

This easy Chow Mein recipe is faster and more delicious than takeout! Learn how to make authentic, crispy chow mein noodles with a savory sauce, chicken, and fresh vegetables in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
For the Stir-Fry
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast thinly sliced into 1/4-inch strips
  • 8 oz dried chow mein noodles or steamed chow mein noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 2 stalks celery thinly sliced
  • 1 cup fresh bean sprouts
  • 3 scallions sliced

Equipment

  • 1 Wok or Large Skillet
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Instructions
 

  1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and drain thoroughly. Toss with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a small bowl, prepare the sauce by whisking together the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, 2 tsp sesame oil, and cornstarch. Set aside.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the wok and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the cabbage, carrots, and celery to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
  6. Push the vegetables to the side. Add the drained noodles to the center of the wok in an even layer. Allow them to pan-fry, without moving, for 2-3 minutes to get them crispy on the bottom.
  7. Add the cooked chicken, bean sprouts, and the prepared sauce to the wok. Toss everything together to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in the sliced scallions. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pro Tip: Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. The stir-frying process is very fast!
Variations: Swap chicken for thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or tofu. Add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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