Chicken Chow Mein, American-Style
A quick and flavorful American-style chicken chow mein with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory soy sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the minced onion lightly in butter or margarine.
- Add shredded cooked chicken, diced celery, meat stock or water, and soy sauce; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Blend cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry and stir into the meat mixture.
- Cook until the mixture is slightly thickened and clear.
- Serve hot over chow mein noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger while browning the onion. You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use tofu and vegetable broth instead. Adjust the soy sauce based on your taste preference, and feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. This dish complements other American recipes well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken chow mein hot over a bed of crispy chow mein noodles. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Susan'S Gourmet Chicken Casserole for a complete meal or offering it as part of a larger spread of chicken recipes during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chow mein mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir until heated through, then serve over freshly cooked noodles for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chow Mein, American-Style contains roughly 754 calories, with 16g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2333mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Simply cook it through before shredding and adding it to the dish. This will require additional cooking time, so ensure the chicken is fully cooked before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.
What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?
If you can't find chow mein noodles, you can use thin spaghetti or even rice as a base. Just cook the alternative until al dente, then top with the chicken mixture. This variation still delivers a satisfying meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and serve over freshly cooked noodles for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).