
This quick Shrimp and Chicken Chow Mein brings the bold flavors of Chinese takeout right to your kitchen using simple ingredients and one skillet. It is packed with juicy shrimp tender chicken and colorful vegetables for a complete meal that comes together fast and satisfies everyone at the table
I made this on a weeknight when I had nothing planned and the family was starving and it was ready in under 30 minutes and disappeared even faster
Ingredients
- Chicken breast diced: adds lean protein and cooks quickly use boneless skinless for best results
- Shrimp peeled and deveined: brings sweet seafood flavor use fresh or thawed frozen
- Olive oil: neutral flavor base for sautéing
- Soy sauce: gives that classic savory umami punch opt for low sodium if preferred
- Oyster sauce: deepens the flavor with a hint of sweetness a pantry staple for stir fries
- Chili oil: adds a gentle heat use as little or much as you like
- Salt and black pepper: essential seasonings that bring the proteins to life
- Coleslaw mix with carrots: brings crunch and color no need to chop just toss it in
- Bean sprouts: light and fresh they balance out the savory elements
- Green onions: finish the dish with sharpness and brightness
- Pre cooked stir fry noodles: shortcut to speed things up check refrigerated or international aisle for best quality
Step by Step Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Add olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium high Place diced chicken in the skillet and season with salt and black pepper Cook for 5 to 6 minutes stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden and almost cooked through
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add shrimp directly into the skillet with the chicken Stir and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked
- Stir in the Vegetables:
- Reduce heat to medium Add bean sprouts and toss well then stir in coleslaw mix Cook for 2 minutes until vegetables are just tender but still crisp
- Add the Noodles:
- Loosen the pre cooked noodles if needed and add them to the skillet Toss thoroughly to distribute evenly with the meat and vegetables
- Prepare and Add the Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together soy sauce oyster sauce and chili oil Pour the sauce mixture over everything in the skillet Stir well so that the noodles and other ingredients are evenly coated
- Finish and Serve:
- Continue to sauté for another 5 minutes allowing flavors to meld Sprinkle green onions over the top and serve hot

I love how the oyster sauce creates that signature glossy coating on everything and reminds me of Friday nights at my favorite local Chinese spot this is my comfort food with just the right amount of spice
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or oil to revive the noodles This dish does not freeze well as the noodles may turn mushy
Ingredient Substitutions
No oyster sauce use a mix of hoisin and soy or mushroom sauce Swap chicken for thinly sliced beef or tofu if preferred Use shredded cabbage and carrots if you do not have a premade coleslaw mix
Serving Suggestions
This dish stands alone as a main but pairs well with egg rolls or steamed dumplings Add a light cucumber salad or hot and sour soup for a balanced meal Serve it with chili crisp or sriracha on the side for extra kick
Cultural Context
Chow Mein has roots in Chinese American cuisine with variations found across different regions It translates to stir fried noodles and can be adapted with many different proteins and sauces This version combines both surf and turf which is popular in fusion takes on the classic

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat dry the shrimp before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.
- → What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
You can use a mix of hoisin sauce and soy sauce, or try sesame oil, mushroom sauce, or fish sauce for a similar savory depth.
- → Do I need to cook the noodles separately?
No, this uses pre-cooked stir-fry noodles that are added directly to the pan for convenience and quick preparation.
- → Can this be served as a side dish?
Yes, it works well as a main course or a side dish alongside other Asian-inspired dishes at dinners or potlucks.
- → Is this dish spicy?
It can be! You control the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili oil in the sauce.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.