This speedy stir-fry combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and perfectly chewy noodles tossed in a savory-sweet sauce. Whether you’re meal-prepping or whipping up a weeknight dinner, this Chicken Chow Mein is your new go-to!
🧾 Recipe Card
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Dietary Tags: Dairy-Free, High-Protein, W-W Friendly Options
Ingredients Checklist
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2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
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3 cups cooked chow mein noodles
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1 cup bell peppers, sliced
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1 cup carrots, julienned
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1 small onion, sliced
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3 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp hoisin sauce
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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Optional: green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
I. Introduction
Who doesn’t love a big plate of noodle-y goodness that’s done in under 30 minutes? This Chicken Chow Mein brings bold, balanced flavor and a rainbow of veggies into one wok-tossed wonder. It’s fast, satisfying, and 100% customizable—my kind of weeknight win.
I love using this recipe as a fridge clean-out hero—it works with almost any veggie combo, and it’s way healthier than takeout. Bonus: It reheats beautifully!
II. Step-by-Step Guide 🔥
1. Sear the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Add chicken slices and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Stir-Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, sauté onion, bell peppers, carrots, garlic, and ginger for about 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
3. Bring It All Together
Return chicken to the pan. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together and stir-fry for 2–3 more minutes until hot and well coated.
4. Serve & Garnish
Serve hot and garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra crunch and flavor.
III. Ingredient Tips & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Why It’s Key | Substitutes & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | Lean protein base | Use thigh meat or tofu for variety |
| Chow mein noodles | Signature chewy texture | Lo mein or ramen noodles work in a pinch |
| Soy sauce | Umami-rich seasoning | Use low-sodium to reduce salt |
| Hoisin sauce | Sweet-savory depth | Try oyster sauce or teriyaki sauce for variation |
| Sesame oil | Nutty finish flavor | Toasted sesame oil adds the most flavor |
| Veggies | Color, crunch, and nutrients | Sub in snap peas, cabbage, or broccoli |
IV. Variations & Serving Suggestions
Flavor Variations:
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Add a splash of rice vinegar for tang
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Sprinkle in crushed red pepper for heat
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Stir in scrambled egg for a lo mein-meets-fried rice twist
W-W Friendly Tips:
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Use whole wheat noodles or zoodles
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Reduce oil to 1 tbsp and skip sesame oil for fewer points
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Bulk up with extra veggies instead of more noodles
Pair With:
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Miso soup or hot and sour soup
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Asian slaw with sesame vinaigrette
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Fresh pineapple or mandarin orange slices
V. Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Warm on the stove or microwave in short bursts, tossing between for even heating.
Make-Ahead Tip:
Chop veggies and mix sauce ahead of time—stir-fry everything fresh for dinner in under 10 minutes!
VI. Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 370
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Protein: 28 g | Carbs: 35 g | Fat: 14 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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W-W Points: ~6–8 (adjusted for oil and noodle type)
Allergens: Contains soy and gluten. Use GF soy sauce and rice noodles for a gluten-free version.
VII. FAQs
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes—just skip the chicken and use tofu or edamame. Swap hoisin for a vegetarian version.
Q: What noodles work best?
A: Classic chow mein or yakisoba noodles work great. Pre-cooked ramen or spaghetti can be used in a pinch.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It’s best fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly and add a splash of water if dry.
VIII. Kristy’s Kitchen Note
This dish checks every box: quick, flavorful, flexible, and perfect for those weeknights when everyone’s hungry right now. I always make a double batch—half for dinner, half for lunches. It’s a hit with my kids too, especially when I let them pick the veggie mix!
IX. More Global-Inspired Meals You’ll Love
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[Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Bowls]
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[Sesame Chicken Stir Fry with Broccoli]
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[W-W Friendly Fried Rice with Cauliflower]
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[Teriyaki Ground Turkey Rice Bowls]
X. Let’s Chow Down Together! 🍜
Made this Chicken Chow Mein? Tag me @KristyCookEats or leave a comment below—I’d love to see your version! Did you go spicy? Add extra veggies? Share your twist and let’s keep cooking deliciously.
Quick meals can be beautiful, balanced, and bursting with flavor—and this one proves it. 🧡