Quick and Easy Chow Mein Noodles with Chicken

This quick and easy Chow Mein Noodles with Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ramen noodles, tender chicken, and a savory mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, this dish is both flavorful and satisfying, coming together in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 5 packets of ramen noodles (seasoning packet discarded): These noodles form the base of the dish.
• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced: Tender chicken adds protein and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Used to season the chicken before cooking.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 10 oz package shredded cabbage: Provides texture and a slight crunch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory flavor.
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated: Adds a hint of spice and freshness.
• 1/3 cup soy sauce: The main ingredient for the savory sauce.
• 3 teaspoons sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.

Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the time on the package. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, swirling to coat the bottom of the skillet.

Step 3:

Season the thinly sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 2-4 minutes until browned on all sides.

Step 4:

Add the diced onion and shredded cabbage to the skillet with the chicken. Mix everything together and cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5:

In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture into the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables.

Step 6:

Stir in the cooked ramen noodles until well combined with the chicken and vegetables. Make sure the noodles are fully coated in the sauce.

Step 7:

Serve the Chow Mein Noodles with Chicken immediately, garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
• This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• To reheat, simply warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• For added flavor, garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.

Helpful Notes

• If you prefer, you can use fresh chow mein noodles instead of ramen for a more authentic texture.
• Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• This recipe works well with other proteins too, like shrimp or tofu, for a different twist.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Ken Hom: "Always stir-fry your ingredients over high heat to achieve that perfect texture and flavor."
• Chef Ming Tsai: "Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor impact in your stir-fry dishes."
• Chef Ching-He Huang: "Don’t overcrowd your pan when stir-frying; cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything cooks evenly."