Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that practically cooks itself, you’ll love this Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein recipe.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, infused with mouthwatering flavors from the garlic and ginger.
I adore how the vegetables maintain their crunch, adding a delightful texture. Plus, the aroma wafts through the house, making it hard to resist.
And if you’re short on time, this recipe doesn’t require any complicated steps—just chop, mix, and wait!
Trust me, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’ll impress family and friends alike. You won’t regret giving it a try!
Ingredients of Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein
When it comes to making a delicious meal that warms the soul, this Ginger-Infused Chicken Chow Mein is a go-to for many. It’s not just about the taste; it’s the way that golden chicken and colorful veggies blend together, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it’s to the palate.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the idea of tossing everything into a slow cooker and letting it work its magic? It’s like having a personal chef, minus the fancy hat and apron. So, if you’re ready to gather your ingredients, here’s what you’ll need for this comforting recipe.
Ingredients:
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1-1/2 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 medium carrots, sliced diagonally (1 cup)
- 2 medium celery ribs, coarsely chopped (1 cup)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 (8 ounce) can sliced water chestnuts, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped gingerroot
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms (3 ounces)
- 1 cup snow pea pods (Chinese)
- Chow mein noodles, if desired
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients for a second. You might notice that most of them are pretty straightforward and easy to find, especially if you have a well-stocked kitchen.
The chicken thighs are a fantastic choice because they stay juicy and tender, even after hours of cooking. And let’s not forget the fresh veggies; they add not just flavor but also a pop of color to your bowl.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out or add any veggies you love! Maybe some bell peppers or bok choy? Just remember, the more colorful your dish, the more inviting it will look.
How to Make Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein
Making this Ginger-Infused Chicken Chow Mein is a breeze, and honestly, it’s one of those meals that makes you feel like a culinary genius without having to break a sweat.
First things first, you’re going to want to take 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1-1/2 pounds) and remove any fat. Then, cut those juicy thighs into 1-inch pieces. Grab a 10-inch skillet and heat up 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. This is where the magic begins. Toss in your chicken pieces and cook them for about 5 minutes, turning once so they get that lovely brown color. You want them to look inviting, like they’ve been sunbathing on a beach—well, kind of.
Once your chicken is looking all golden, you’ll shift gears and head to your slow cooker. Add in 2 medium carrots sliced diagonally (about 1 cup), 2 medium celery ribs coarsely chopped (1 cup), 1 medium onion chopped (1/2 cup), 2 finely chopped garlic cloves, and that can of 8-ounce sliced water chestnuts, all drained and ready to add some crunch.
Now, here’s a trick: mix together 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon of finely chopped gingerroot, then pour this savory mixture over the chicken and veggies in the slow cooker. Cover it up and let it work its magic on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. Just imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your home; it’s like a warm hug in the kitchen.
When the chicken is no longer pink and the veggies are tender, you’ll want to thicken things up a bit. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, and then stir this into your chicken mixture. Add in 1 cup of sliced fresh mushrooms (3 ounces) and 1 cup of snow pea pods, then cover it again and crank the heat to high for another 15 minutes.
Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Ginger-Infused Chicken Chow Mein is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For instance, if you’re not a fan of chicken, feel free to swap it for tofu or shrimp. You can also experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or bok choy.
If you’re looking to lighten things up, try using less oil or incorporating spiralized vegetables instead of noodles. For a gluten-free option, simply use tamari in place of soy sauce and serve it over rice instead.
Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or sauces, like chili paste for heat or sesame oil for that extra depth. Enjoy making it your own!
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein
What can elevate your Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein to the next level? Pairing it with the right sides can truly enhance the meal.
I love serving mine with a light, crisp cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil. The freshness complements the rich flavors of the chow mein perfectly.
Another great option is steamed broccoli or bok choy, which adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, fried rice is a fantastic companion, soaking up all those delicious juices.
And don’t forget a side of egg rolls or spring rolls—they’re great for that extra crunch and flavor contrast.
Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Slow Cooked Chicken Chow Mein experience, consider a few additional tips that can elevate the dish even further.
First, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference; bell peppers or bok choy add great flavor and color.
I also recommend marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for an extra flavor boost before cooking.
If you’re a fan of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
When serving, don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a fresh touch.
Lastly, if you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge, and the flavors deepen overnight—perfect for lunch the next day!
Enjoy your cooking!