Easy One Pot Chicken Chow Mein

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Chicken Chow Mein is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and crisp vegetables in a savory sauce. This easy one-pot version takes the complexity out of making Chow Mein, delivering a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen with minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, satisfying, and delicious.

Why One-Pot Chicken Chow Mein?

One-pot meals are lifesavers for anyone short on time but big on flavor. This recipe not only minimizes the dishes but also ensures that all the ingredients come together seamlessly, soaking up the rich flavors of the sauce. The result is a hearty, flavorful dish that tastes like it took hours to make.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Chow Mein

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)

  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 small onion (sliced

  • 1 cup carrots (julienned)

  • 1 cup cabbage (shredded)

  • 1/2 cup bell peppers (sliced)

  • 8 oz chow mein noodles (or spaghetti, cooked al dente)

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • Green onions (sliced, for garnish)

  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

How to Make Easy One Pot Chicken Chow Mein

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until lightly browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant, then toss in the carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper.
  4. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy your easy one-pot Chicken Chow Mein!

Creative Variations to Try

  • Spicy Chicken Chow Mein: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
  • Vegetarian Chow Mein: Skip the chicken and load up on tofu or additional veggies like snap peas, broccoli, and mushrooms.
  • Shrimp Chow Mein: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Cook the shrimp separately and add them back during the final step.
  • Peanut Butter Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a nutty, creamy flavor.
  • Low-Carb Version: Replace noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a healthier alternative.

Tips for the Best One Pot Chicken Chow Mein

  • Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
  • Cook the noodles al dente to avoid them becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
  • Thinly slice the chicken for even cooking.
  • Adjust the soy sauce and sugar to balance the saltiness and sweetness to your preference.
  • Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

FAQs About One Pot Chicken Chow Mein

  • Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
    A: Yes! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works well. Just add it in the final step to warm it through.
  • Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles to make a gluten-free version.
  • Q: What other vegetables can I use in Chow Mein?
    A: Feel free to use broccoli, snow peas, zucchini, or mushrooms. This dish is very versatile and works well with most vegetables.
  • Q: How do I store leftovers?
    A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to freshen it up.
  • Q: Can I freeze Chicken Chow Mein?
    A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the noodles and vegetables may lose their texture upon thawing.
  • Q: Is Chow Mein the same as Lo Mein?
    A: Not quite! Chow Mein noodles are typically stir-fried for a slightly crisp texture, while Lo Mein noodles are softer and tossed in sauce. Both are delicious in their own way!

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