Go Back
Close-up of glossy thin yellow egg noodles coated in dark brown sauce. (Chicken Chow Mein Recipe)

Chicken Chow Mein Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Glossy Noodles and Seared Chicken

Master the art of the Chicken Chow Mein Recipe with this professional guide. Featuring thin yellow egg noodles, seared chicken, and matchstick carrots in a glossy dark brown sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chow Mein Ingredients
  • 12 oz thin yellow egg noodles Fresh or dried (340g)
  • 1 lb chicken breast strips Sliced against the grain (450g)
  • 2 cups green cabbage Thinly sliced (150g)
  • 1 cup matchstick carrots Vibrant orange (100g)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce Regular (45ml)
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce For deep color (15ml)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce For gloss (15ml)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch Thickener (5g)
  • 2 tbsp scallions Sliced bright green for garnish
  • 1 tsp toasted white sesame seeds Light dusting

Equipment

  • 1 Carbon Steel Wok or Large Skillet Essential for high-heat stir-frying.
  • 1 Kitchen Tongs Used for tossing noodles and distributing sauce.
  • 1 Chef's Knife For precision cutting of matchstick carrots.

Method
 

Prep and Sear
  1. Boil thin yellow egg noodles for 2-3 minutes until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with a little oil.
  2. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast strips and sear until a deep golden-brown crust forms on both sides.
Stir-Fry and Assemble
  1. Add matchstick carrots and green cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until cabbage is wilted but carrots are still bright.
  2. Add noodles and chicken back to the wok. Pour in the prepared glossy dark brown sauce and toss vigorously until every strand is coated and has an oily sheen.

Notes

Always use dark soy sauce to achieve the signature translucent brown color.
Ensure the wok is piping hot before adding chicken to get a professional sear.