18 Delicious Chow Mein Recipes for Every Occasion

Are you a fan of the classic Chinese dish, chow mein? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for a quick and easy meal to whip up, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious chow mein recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic chicken and beef dishes to vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something for everyone on this list.

From spicy Szechuan-inspired stir-fries to sweet and sour sauces, these recipes will take your taste buds on a culinary journey around the world. So, whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of noodles or a flavorful meal with friends and family, keep reading to discover our top 18 chow mein recipes that are sure to please!

Classic Chicken Chow Mein

Satisfy your cravings with this beloved Chinese-American dish, featuring tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory noodles.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 cup cooked noodles (chow mein or soba work well)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, along with the cooked noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
6. Stir-fry everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Vegetable Chow Mein with Tofu

A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry dish that combines the goodness of vegetables, tofu, and noodles, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pan; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and mixed vegetables; stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return tofu to the pan; add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Beef and Broccoli Chow Mein

This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of American-Chinese cuisine, featuring tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory noodles.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Szechuan Chow Mein

Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy and savory take on traditional Chow Mein.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef or chicken, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Cooked noodles of your choice

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add beef or chicken; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add snow peas, Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Return beef or chicken to wok; stir-fry until well combined.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked noodles.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.

Shrimp Chow Mein with Garlic Sauce

Savor the flavors of Asia with this quick and easy Shrimp Chow Mein recipe, featuring a rich garlic sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb 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
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
4. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked noodles and shrimp back into the pan. Toss everything together to coat with the garlic sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes.

Teriyaki Pork Chow Mein

This sweet and savory Teriyaki Pork Chow Mein recipe is a twist on the classic Chinese dish, featuring tender pork, flavorful teriyaki sauce, and stir-fried noodles.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 8 oz chow mein noodles
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Pour in Teriyaki sauce and stir to combine with pork and vegetables. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cooked chow mein noodles, frozen peas and carrots, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Singapore Noodle Chow Mein

A classic Chinese dish with a Singaporean twist, this recipe combines the flavors of stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and meat for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup noodles (preferably Singapore-style flat rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or beef, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and 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 meat; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture; stir-fry until noodles are well coated.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Vegan Mushroom Chow Mein

A flavorful and nutritious vegan twist on the classic Chinese dish, this recipe combines sautéed mushrooms with a savory stir-fry of noodles, vegetables, and seasonings.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup vegan chow mein noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper slices
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or frying pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, broccoli, bell pepper, and ginger. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked noodles to the wok, stirring to combine with mushroom and vegetable mixture.
5. Season with soy sauce and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cashew Chicken Chow Mein

Elevate your stir-fry game with this creamy and savory Cashew Chicken Chow Mein recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked chow mein noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add remaining sesame oil. Add mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the pan, stirring to combine with vegetables. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in cashews and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chicken mixture over cooked chow mein noodles.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemongrass Ginger Chow Mein

Lemongrass Ginger Chow Mein Recipe

This unique and flavorful recipe combines the warm, spicy essence of ginger with the bright, citrusy zing of lemongrass to create a one-of-a-kind Chinese-inspired dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chow mein noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Soy sauce and sesame oil for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and lemongrass; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and mixed vegetables; stir-fry until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over prepared noodles.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Sweet and Sour Chow Mein

Sweet and Sour Chow Mein Recipe

Quickly satisfy your cravings with this classic Chinese-American dish! This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors to create a mouth-watering meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chow mein noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Pour in the sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional minute, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Add cooked chow mein noodles; stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until well coated with sauce.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes

Serve hot and garnish with fresh scallions if desired. Enjoy!

Five-Spice Duck Chow Mein

Experience the harmonious balance of Chinese flavors with this mouth-watering Five-Spice Duck Chow Mein, featuring tender duck, savory noodles, and a hint of spice.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless duck breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8 oz chow mein noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
– 1 cup cooked duck broth
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, five-spice powder, and sesame oil. Add the sliced duck and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated duck and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. In the same wok, add mixed vegetables and cooked duck broth. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add cooked noodles, cooled duck, and chopped scallions to the wok. Stir-fry until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Peanut Butter Chow Mein

Combine the classic Chinese dish with creamy peanut butter for a unique and delicious twist! This recipe is perfect for those who love trying new flavors.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish

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.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Add the mixture to the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Kimchi Chow Mein Stir-Fry

A spicy twist on a classic Chinese dish, this Kimchi Chow Mein Stir-Fry combines the bold flavors of Korean kimchi with the comforting warmth of chow mein noodles. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add kimchi, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the flavors meld together.
5. Add cooked chow mein noodles to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Enjoy your spicy and savory Kimchi Chow Mein Stir-Fry!

Honey Sesame Chow Mein

A sweet and savory twist on the classic Chinese dish, this Honey Sesame Chow Mein is a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

– 1 package Chow Mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or beef, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish

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 onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or beef; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Pour mixture into the wok or skillet; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked noodles to the wok or skillet; toss until well combined with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Black Bean Sauce Chow Mein

A flavorful twist on classic chow mein, this recipe combines the savory flavors of black beans with tender noodles and vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish

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; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, 5 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked noodles to the wok; toss with black bean mixture until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Curry Coconut Chow Mein

Experience the fusion of Eastern flavors with this unique Curry Coconut Chow Mein recipe. This dish combines the richness of curry powder, creamy coconut milk, and savory soy sauce for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 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. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together curry powder, coconut milk, and soy sauce. Pour mixture into the wok or skillet; stir to combine with vegetable mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Add cooked noodles; toss to coat with the curry-coconut sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Scallion and Ginger Chow Mein

A flavorful twist on traditional chow mein, this recipe combines the pungency of scallions with the warmth of ginger to create a delicious and aromatic noodle dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. bean sprouts, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

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 garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add scallions, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until noodles are well coated with the sauce.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to stir-fry your way through 18 delicious Chow Mein recipes, each perfect for a different occasion. From classic chicken and beef dishes to vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something for everyone. Try Teriyaki Pork Chow Mein for a sweet and savory twist, or go spicy with Szechuan Chow Mein. For a taste of Asia, try Singapore Noodle Chow Mein or Curry Coconut Chow Mein. And don’t forget the vegan and gluten-free options, like Vegan Mushroom Chow Mein and Scallion and Ginger Chow Mein. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or an adventurous meal, this collection has got you covered.