Chicken Chow Mein

My Easy Weeknight Chicken Chow Mein

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can feel like climbing Mount Everest sometimes. But I've discovered a secret weapon in my arsenal: simple, quick recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Chicken Chow Mein is my absolute go-to for those nights when I'm short on time but still crave something satisfying and flavorful. The best part? It's surprisingly easy to make, even on a weeknight after a long day at the office.

The key to this recipe, and really to any successful weeknight meal, is preparation. I always do as much prep work as possible before I even turn on the stove. Chopping veggies, measuring out spices, and getting everything organized makes the actual cooking process so much smoother and faster. Think of it like an assembly line; the more you prep, the more efficient the cooking process becomes. I usually do this while the kids are doing homework or watching a bit of TV, making it a multitasking marvel. In my experience, it is much better to have a bit of prep time than to be rushing around trying to chop and stir at the same time.

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to add other vegetables you love. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or even some baby corn would be delicious additions. You can also easily adjust the spiciness level to your preference. A little more or less of the red pepper flakes can make all the difference. And don't be afraid to experiment with different sauces. A splash of hoisin sauce or a dash of sriracha could add another layer of flavor. Ultimately this is the beauty of the meal: it's yours to customize!

The wonderful thing about chow mein is its versatility. It's a great meal for lunchboxes, perfect for leftovers, and can be easily scaled up or down depending on the number of people you're feeding. For my family, it's a true crowd-pleaser, and I often find myself making a double batch just to ensure there are plenty of leftovers for lunches during the week. I can't tell you how many times this has been my savior on busy work mornings or after school events. In fact this is a recipe that I make at least once a week, it is just so convenient.

Beyond the ease and adaptability, this dish is also a healthy option. It's packed with protein from the chicken and plenty of vegetables, offering a balanced and nutritious meal for the whole family. We're pretty big on healthy eating in my household, so the nutritional benefits are a major plus. I've found the secret is to use quality ingredients - using fresh, high quality chicken breast and plenty of fresh vegetables makes this dish even more enjoyable.

So, next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner, give this Chicken Chow Mein a try. It's a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become a favorite in yours as well. It's a testament to the idea that simple recipes can be incredibly satisfying and that a little prep work can go a long way in creating a delicious and stress-free mealtime experience, especially for a busy mom like me!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you – I love hearing from fellow busy moms who are always searching for quick and easy meals!

Step-by-step

• Cook carrots, snow peas, celery and noodles in boiling water 3 minutes; drain and set aside
• Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet (or wok) over medium-high heat. Add chicken and 1 tablespoon soy sauce to pan; stir-fry 3 minutes. Remove chicken from pan; keep warm.
• Combine remaining 2 tablespoons soy sauce, chicken broth, oyster sauce, grated ginger, and pepper flakes, stirring well.
• Heat remaining 1 teaspoon oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and garlic to pan; stir-fry for 3 minutes.
• Add broth mixture, and cook for 1 minute, bringing the sauce to just under a boil.
• Add noodle mixture and chicken to pan; cook 1 minute, tossing to combine. The sauce should soak up into the noodles within this time.
• Sprinkle with green onions and serve.