Skinny Chicken Chow Mein Recipe.
Satisfy your cravings for Chinese takeout without the guilt with this skinny chicken chow mein recipe!
In just a few steps, you can whip up a delicious and healthy version of this classic dish right in your own kitchen.
Enjoy tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and flavorful sauce in every bite.
Get your wok ready and indulge in a guilt-free Asian feast!
Chicken Chow Mein History
Did you know that chicken chow mein has its roots in Chinese cuisine? This flavorful dish originated from the Guangdong province in southern China and is now a beloved staple in many Asian restaurants around the world.
The name ‘chow mein’ translates to ‘fried noodles’ in Cantonese, which aptly describes this dish. Thin egg noodles are stir-fried until crispy, then combined with tender slices of chicken, crunchy vegetables such as carrots and bell peppers, and a savory sauce crafted from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and oyster sauce.
The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a mouthwatering experience that will have you wanting more. If you’re searching for a delicious Chinese-inspired meal, give chicken chow mein a try!
Ingredients
For those in search of a nutritious and delicious dish, make this skinny chicken chow mein.
You will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast: Lean and tender, it adds protein to your meal.
- Assorted vegetables: Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas bring color and nutrients.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami flavor without the excess salt.
- Whole wheat noodles: A healthier alternative to traditional chow mein noodles.
Instructions
Begin by slicing the vegetables into thin strips. Then cook them in a hot skillet until they are tender-crisp. Doing this is essential to achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your skinny chicken chow mein recipe.
Here’s a simple guide to follow:
- Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cut vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, and onions.
- Stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften but still have a bit of crunch.
- Remove the cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
By cooking the vegetables separately from the chicken, you can ensure that each ingredient keeps its unique taste and texture. This method also allows for better control of cooking times, guaranteeing that everything is cooked to perfection.
Now that your veggies are ready, it’s time to move onto the next step in creating this delicious skinny chicken chow mein dish!
Cooking Tips: Meal Prep
When meal prepping, don’t forget to cut and cook your vegetables first to experience the full flavor and texture. This simple step can greatly improve the taste of your dish. By pre-cooking the vegetables, their natural sweetness is brought out and the flavors are intensified. Additionally, this technique ensures the vegetables are cooked appropriately – tender but still slightly crunchy.
To help you plan your meal prep, we’ve put together a table of cook times for different vegetables:
| Vegetable | Slicing Thickness | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | 1/4 inch | 5 minutes |
| Bell peppers | 1/2 inch | 3 minutes |
| Snap peas | Whole | 2 minutes |
Final Thoughts
As you come to the end of your meal prep journey, it’s important to pause and recognize the effort and organization that has gone into creating healthy and delicious meals for the week.
You’ve thoughtfully planned your menu, shopped for the freshest ingredients, and spent time in the kitchen cooking each dish with love and attention.
Now, as you look at your neatly packed containers with vibrant meals ready to be enjoyed, you can take comfort in knowing that you have set yourself up for a successful week ahead.
Not only have you saved time by prepping ahead of time, but you’ve also made healthier decisions by avoiding late-night takeout or unhealthy snacks.
So take a moment to congratulate yourself for taking charge of your nutrition and setting yourself up for success!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Prepare Skinny Chicken Chow Mein?
It takes about 30 minutes to prepare skinny chicken chow mein. With its flavorful combination of chicken, veggies, and noodles, this dish is a quick and satisfying option for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Can I Substitute Chicken With Tofu or Shrimp?
Yes, you can definitely substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp in this recipe. Both options will add a different texture and flavor to your chow mein, giving you a delicious and satisfying meal.
Can I Make Skinny Chicken Chow Mein Ahead of Time and Freeze It?
Yes, you can definitely make skinny chicken chow mein ahead of time and freeze it! Just prepare the dish as usual, let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-friendly containers. Enjoy your easy and convenient meal later on!
Are There Any Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?
Yes, there are gluten-free options for this recipe. You can use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles instead of regular ones. This will ensure that the Skinny Chicken Chow Mein is suitable for those with gluten intolerance or Celiac disease.
Can I Use Dried Noodles Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can use dried noodles instead of fresh ones for the Skinny Chicken Chow Mein recipe. It’s important to cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the dish.
