Name: Easy Chow Mein
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 oz chow mein noodles (or thin spaghetti/ramen); 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 onion, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix; 1 carrot, julienned; 2 green onions, sliced; For the sauce:; 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium if preferred); 1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp brown sugar or honey; 2 tbsp water; 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)

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Easy Chow Mein is a quick and delicious stir-fried noodle dish made with savory sauce, crisp vegetables, and tender noodles—all cooked in one pan. It’s the kind of takeout-style recipe I love making at home because it’s faster, healthier, and totally customizable. Whether I enjoy it on its own or add protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this dish always comes through when I want something satisfying in a hurry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast and flexible this recipe is—it’s ready in under 30 minutes and tastes just like my favorite Chinese takeout. The sauce is rich and savory, the noodles are perfectly chewy, and the veggies stay crisp and fresh. I can use whatever vegetables I have in the fridge, and it works as both a side or a full meal. It’s also a great option for meal prep or weeknight dinners when I want big flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chow mein noodles (or thin spaghetti/ramen as a substitute)
Olive oil or sesame oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, sliced
Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
Carrots, julienned
Green onions, sliced

For the sauce:

Soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
Oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
Sesame oil
Brown sugar or honey
Water
Optional: cornstarch (for a thicker sauce)

Directions

I cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
In a small bowl, I whisk together the sauce ingredients until smooth and set aside.
I heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then sauté the garlic and onions for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
I add the cabbage and carrots and stir-fry for another 3–4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
I toss in the cooked noodles and pour the sauce over everything. I use tongs to combine and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
I finish with a sprinkle of green onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook—ready in about 25 minutes total.

Variations

I add sliced chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef for extra protein.
For more veggies, I’ve included bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli.
Sometimes I top it with sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flavor.
I swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free version.
A fried egg on top makes it even more filling and fun.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or extra sauce until hot. It also microwaves well for a quick lunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes! While chow mein noodles are traditional, I’ve used ramen, spaghetti, or udon in a pinch and they all work well.

What’s the difference between chow mein and lo mein?

Chow mein is usually stir-fried so the noodles get a bit crisp, while lo mein is softer and more saucy. This recipe leans toward the stir-fried chow mein style.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

It adds great depth, but if I don’t have it, I use hoisin sauce or a little extra soy sauce and a pinch of sugar.

Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely. I add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. I cook and store the noodles and veggies separately or fully prep the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats really well.

Conclusion

Easy Chow Mein is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something quick, customizable, and full of flavor. With chewy noodles, fresh veggies, and a savory homemade sauce, it’s a better-than-takeout dish that I can whip up anytime. Whether I make it meatless or pack it with protein, this stir-fry always satisfies.

Easy Chow Mein

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Easy Chow Mein is a fast and flavorful stir-fried noodle dish with crisp vegetables and a savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or quick meal prep. It’s better than takeout and totally customizable with your favorite add-ins.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

8 oz chow mein noodles (or thin spaghetti/ramen)
1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
1 carrot, julienned
2 green onions, sliced
For the sauce:
2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp brown sugar or honey
2 tbsp water
1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)

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Instructions

Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic and onions for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything.
Toss with tongs and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
Sprinkle with green onions and serve hot.