Clean Chicken and Veggie Chow Mein

Try this Clean Chicken and Veggie Chow Mein recipe

Clean Chicken and Veggie Chow Mein
Clean Chicken and Veggie Chow Mein

Step-by-step

  • Cook the noodles as directed on package. Set aside and rinse with water every 5-8 minutes or so, so that they don't become starchy.
  • In a non-stick pan, heat your coconut oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper and then cut into small, cubed pieces. Cook thoroughly until chicken is done all the way through. Remove pan from heat.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the Bragg's (or soy sauce), garlic, Truvia brown sugar, water, rice vinegar, and sriracha. (At this point you can taste the sauce and see if it needs to be a little sweeter. I added just a sprinkle of Stevia, but that's totally up to you).
  • Heat the sesame oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms in a single layer and saute for 90 seconds per side, until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • Add the broccoli and carrots to the pan along with ½ cup of water. Cover the pan, turn the heat down to medium, and let the vegetables steam for about 2 minutes. Add the cabbage and green onions and stir-fry for 1 minute.
  • Return the mushrooms to the pan along with the prepared noodles and chicken. Toss well.
  • Pour the whisked sauce into the pan and toss the noodles to coat. Let the sauce come to a boil before turning the heat off.
  • Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds (if desired). Enjoy!

Clean Chicken and Veggie Chow Mein: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy, delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping the household running smoothly, whipping up something elaborate often falls by the wayside. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and nutritious recipes that the whole family will love. This Clean Chicken and Veggie Chow Mein fits the bill perfectly. It's ready in under 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and surprisingly healthy.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It’s all about fresh, high-quality ingredients, perfectly balanced flavors, and a quick cooking time. Forget complicated techniques and endless ingredient lists; this recipe focuses on the essence of good food: wholesome ingredients prepared with care. I particularly love the combination of the savory chicken, the slightly sweet and tangy sauce, and the crisp-tender vegetables. The noodles provide a satisfying base, soaking up all the delicious flavors. It’s a perfect meal for a busy weeknight, offering a satisfying and healthy alternative to takeout.

Why this recipe works for busy lives:

  • Speed: The entire recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Simplicity: The steps are straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
  • Healthiness: It’s packed with lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains, offering a balanced and nutritious meal.
  • Flexibility: Feel free to adjust the vegetables to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snow peas.
  • Flavor: The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors makes this a truly irresistible dish.

Tips and Variations:

  • Noodles: I prefer soba noodles for their nutty flavor and satisfying texture, but you can easily use other types of noodles like thin spaghetti, egg noodles, or even rice noodles.
  • Protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even beef.
  • Vegetables: The vegetable combinations are endless! Experiment with your favorite vegetables to create your own unique version.
  • Sauce: Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spiciness level to your liking.
  • Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. This will save you valuable time on busy weeknights.

This Clean Chicken and Veggie Chow Mein is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple, delicious food that nourishes the body and soul. It’s a recipe that I’ve perfected over time, tweaking and adjusting to suit my busy lifestyle. It’s become a staple in our household, a go-to meal when time is short, but we still crave a wholesome and flavorful dinner. I hope you'll give it a try and make it your own.

Beyond the practical aspects, this recipe embodies a philosophy of mindful eating. Taking the time to prepare fresh ingredients, to savor the flavors, and to share a meal with loved ones are essential parts of a healthy and fulfilling life. So, even amidst the chaos of a busy schedule, remember to appreciate the simple pleasures of a well-cooked meal. This Chow Mein is a perfect reminder of that.

So, the next time you're short on time but craving a healthy and delicious dinner, reach for this recipe. It’s a true lifesaver and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You’ll be surprised at how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is. Happy cooking!