Looking for a dish that’s both familiar and flavorful? Look no further than chow mein! This classic Chinese-American recipe has been a staple in many cuisines for decades. And today, we’re taking it to the next level with 18 delicious chow mein recipes to suit every occasion.
From comforting classics to bold twists and modern spins, our collection of chow mein recipes is sure to inspire your culinary creativity. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special gathering, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, grab a wok (or skillet!), and get ready to stir-fry your way to flavor town!
Classic Chicken Chow Mein
This iconic Chinese dish is a staple of takeout menus and family dinners alike. With its savory sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 cups cooked chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and cornstarch mixture.
6. Return chicken to the wok and stir-fry until coated with sauce.
7. Serve over cooked chow mein noodles, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Chow Mein with Tofu
Savor a delicious and nutritious stir-fry dish with this easy-to-make Vegetable Chow Mein with Tofu recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cups cooked chow mein noodles
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until well combined.
6. Return tofu to the pan; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Beef Chow Mein
Add a kick to your Chinese-inspired dish with this Spicy Beef Chow Mein recipe. This flavorful stir-fry combines tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and spicy sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups cooked chow mein noodles
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips according to package instructions or grill until tender. Slice into thin strips.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked beef, chow mein noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and chili flakes. Stir-fry 2-3 minutes to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Chow Mein with Garlic Sauce
A classic Chinese-American dish, Shrimp Chow Mein with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, crispy chow mein noodles, and a savory garlic sauce for a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and fully cooked.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
6. Pour the garlic sauce over the cooked shrimp and noodles. Stir-fry everything together for 1 minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Singapore Noodles Chow Mein Style
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry made with thin noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein, all wok-fried to perfection. This recipe is a twist on the classic Singaporean dish, adapted for a quick and easy chow mein-style meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup thin noodles (such as rice stick or egg noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken, beef, or tofu (your choice)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked protein; stir-fry 2-3 minutes.
5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper; stir-fry 1 minute.
6. Add cooked noodles; stir-fry to combine with the wok-fried ingredients.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Pork Chow Mein
A flavorful twist on traditional chow mein, this Teriyaki Pork Chow Mein recipe combines the savory sweetness of teriyaki sauce with tender pork and crispy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked chow mein noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add snow peas and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Pour into the pan and stir to combine.
6. Return pork to the pan and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve over cooked chow mein noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick and Easy Egg Chow Mein
A classic Chinese-American dish gets a breakfast twist with this simple and delicious recipe. Scrambled eggs, chow mein noodles, and savory vegetables come together for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chow mein noodles
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Push onion mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs; scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix eggs with onion mixture. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked noodles with egg and vegetable mixture. Stir-fry until well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Chow Mein with Bell Peppers
A classic Chinese stir-fry recipe gets a vibrant twist with the addition of colorful bell peppers and crispy noodles. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz chow mein noodles
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in peas and carrots, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked noodles; stir-fry until combined and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Chow Mein
Savory noodles meet aromatic flavors in this quick and easy Sesame Ginger Chow Mein recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go, this dish combines the classic Chinese noodle stir-fry with the added depth of sesame and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. chow mein noodles
– 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, cabbage)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tsp. grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp. soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in sesame seeds, ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture; toss to coat.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Mushroom Chow Mein
A savory and satisfying vegan twist on the classic Chinese dish, this recipe combines tender mushrooms with a medley of vegetables and chewy noodles for a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms and snow peas to the pan, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and cooked tofu. Combine with the noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chow Mein
Sweet and Sour Chow Mein Recipe
Summary: A classic Chinese-American dish that combines the flavors of sweet and sour with a medley of vegetables, all served over a bed of chow mein noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and snow peas; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce. Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the wok or skillet.
5. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the vegetable mixture over cooked chow mein noodles. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Duck Chow Mein
This recipe combines the rich flavors of five-spice duck with the savory goodness of chow mein, creating a mouthwatering and easy-to-make Chinese-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless duck breast
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 8 oz chow mein noodles
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder.
3. Place the duck breast in a shallow baking dish and brush with the marinade.
4. Roast the duck for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions.
6. Stir-fry mixed vegetables with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) for 2-3 minutes.
7. Slice the roasted duck into thin strips and combine with cooked noodles and vegetables.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemongrass Chicken Chow Mein
This flavorful stir-fry dish combines the bold flavors of lemongrass and soy sauce with succulent chicken and crunchy noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 8 oz chow mein noodles
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the stir-fry mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chow Mein with Crunchy Veggies
Peanut Butter Chow Mein with Crunchy Veggies Recipe
Summary:
Transform the classic Chinese dish into a creamy, nutty delight by incorporating peanut butter and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed crunchy vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped peanuts or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add mixed crunchy vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in peanut butter and soy sauce until well combined. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Coconut Chow Mein
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with a hint of Western spices, creating a unique and delicious Curry Coconut Chow Mein. This dish is perfect for those looking to spice up their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Add cooked noodles and stir-fry until combined with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Bok Choy Chow Mein
This classic Chinese dish combines the flavors of stir-fried vegetables, savory sauce, and noodles. Garlic Bok Choy Chow Mein is a quick and easy meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bok choy (white and green parts), cleaned and separated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add bok choy, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (optional).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Chow Mein with Fried Egg
This spicy fusion dish combines the bold flavors of Korean kimchi with the comfort of Chinese chow mein, topped with a runny fried egg. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 1 cup cooked chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chopped kimchi, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Add cooked noodles to the wok, stirring to combine with kimchi mixture.
6. Fry eggs in a separate pan and place on top of chow mein mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Chow Mein
Transform your ordinary chow mein into an extraordinary dish with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweetness of honey and the savory flavor of soy sauce. This sweet and sour glaze is a game-changer for any stir-fry lover!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/2 cup of cooked chicken or tofu
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken/tofu. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add garlic, honey, and soy sauce to the wok. Stir until well combined and slightly caramelized (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add cooked chow mein noodles to the wok and stir-fry for an additional minute, ensuring everything is well coated with the glaze.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to stir-fry your way into flavor town! This article presents 18 delicious chow mein recipes that cater to every occasion and taste. From classic chicken and beef to vegan and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special celebration meal, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to impress. So go ahead, mix and match your favorite ingredients, and get cooking with these 18 scrumptious chow mein recipes!