I’ll never forget the first time I attempted to make Slow Cooker Chicken Chow Mein Classic Chinese Noodle Dish.
It was for a last-minute potluck, and my stovetop wok skills were, let’s say, a bit frantic. I ended up with a smoky kitchen and noodles that were somehow both burnt and undercooked.
The secret to this recipe is slicing the chicken thinly so it stays tender. I follow the prep rules from my How to Cook Juicy Chicken Every Time guide to ensure the meat never dries out in the high heat of the wok.
That disaster sent me on a mission. I was determined to create a version that was not only foolproof but also deeply flavorful. My secret? Letting the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while I focus on the fresh, crunchy toppings.
This method is a total game-changer for busy weeknights. It delivers that classic takeout taste with minimal effort, making it a staple in my home kitchen. If you’re looking for another sweet treat to balance out this savory meal, you should definitely try our decadent fudgy brownies.
If you love skipping the takeout delivery fees, you have to try my Pineapple Chicken next. It has that perfect sweet and sticky sauce you crave!
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick look at what you’re making. I love having this snapshot before I dive into any recipe.
- Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired
- Category: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on Low
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why This Recipe is So Special
What makes this dish stand out is its incredible simplicity. You get layers of flavor without standing over a hot stove.
The slow cooker gently simmers the chicken until it’s fall-apart tender. This allows the savory sauce to penetrate every single bite.
We finish it with fresh beansprouts and green onions for a perfect crunch. It’s that contrast of soft noodles and crisp veggies that makes it so addictive.
Slow Cooker Chicken Chow Mein Classic Chinese Noodle Dish Recipe
My Step-by-Step Method
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Chow Mein Classic Chinese Noodle Dish Recipe!
Nutrition Information
The Full Ingredient List
Gathering your mise en place makes the process so smooth. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this comforting meal.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz chow mein noodles
- 1 cup fresh bean sprouts
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
My Step-by-Step Method
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a perfect dinner waiting for you. It’s easier than you think!
- Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. This is your flavorful foundation.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, oyster sauce, ginger, and garlic. Pour this savory mixture over the chicken.
- Add the sliced celery, carrots, and onion on top of the chicken. There’s no need to stir at this point.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours. This low and slow method is key for tender meat.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the chow mein noodles according to package directions. Drain them well.
- Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should pull apart effortlessly.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the cooked noodles, bean sprouts, and sesame oil. Gently stir everything to combine.
- Let it heat through for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished generously with sliced green onions. Enjoy your homemade feast!
PREPARATION
This slow cooker method is perfect for meal prep – you can easily double the recipe and freeze portions for later. For another seasonal favorite that’s just as easy to prepare, check out our popular pumpkin white chocolate chip cookies.
My Top Tips for Success
These little tricks will make your chow mein absolutely restaurant-quality. I use them every single time.
- Don’t skip the sesame oil at the end. It adds that authentic, nutty fragrance that makes the dish.
- For a thicker sauce, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- If you’re short on time, you can cook it on HIGH for 2 hours. But I find the low and slow method gives the best texture.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or snow peas with the noodles at the end for extra color and crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made these errors so you don’t have to! Learning from them will guarantee a perfect result.
Avoid adding the noodles too early. They will become mushy and absorb all the liquid if they cook for hours.
Don’t use chicken breasts as a direct substitute. Thighs have more fat, which keeps them moist and tender during the long cooking process. Breasts can easily become dry.
Resist the urge to open the lid frequently. Every time you do, you release heat and steam, which can significantly increase the cooking time.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Please note this is an estimate. Actual values can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Sugar: 5g
- Calories: 385
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 107mg
- Sodium: 1250mg
- Fiber: 4g
After enjoying this savory main course, you might be craving something light and refreshing to finish your meal. I highly recommend trying our simple peach sorbet for a perfect palate cleanser.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here are answers to the questions I get asked the most about this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the point of adding the noodles. Store the cooked chicken and veggie mixture in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it in the slow cooker and then add freshly cooked noodles.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you need a substitute, you can use hoisin sauce. Alternatively, a combination of extra soy sauce and a tiny bit of brown sugar will work in a pinch to replicate that sweet and salty flavor.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, it’s very easy! Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is a gluten-free brand. Then, use your favorite gluten-free noodles, such as rice noodles or chickpea pasta.
Leave a Reply! (I’d Love to Hear From You!)
Did this slow cooker method make your weeknight dinner a breeze? I truly hope it brings as much comfort to your table as it does to mine. I’d be thrilled to know how it turned out for you! Please share your experience, any fun twists you added, or your own tips in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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