Shrimp Chicken Chow Mein

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This shrimp and chicken chow mein is a flavorful stir-fry that brings together juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory soy-oyster sauce blend. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for busy evenings or relaxed weekend meals. The noodles soak up all the rich flavors, and the dish comes together in a single pan. Flexible enough for any mix of vegetables you have on hand, it’s a great go-to for a satisfying, takeout-style dinner at home.

Published By Ioana
Updated on Tue, 10 Jun 2025 20:05:22 GMT
A bowl of shrimp and chicken chow mein. Bookmark
A bowl of shrimp and chicken chow mein. | ioanacooks.com

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
A close up of shrimp and chicken chow mein. Bookmark
A close up of shrimp and chicken chow mein. | ioanacooks.com

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

A plate of shrimp and chicken chow mein. Bookmark
A plate of shrimp and chicken chow mein. | ioanacooks.com

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.

Shrimp Chicken Chow Mein

Savory shrimp and chicken with noodles and vegetables in a quick stir-fry perfect for weeknights.

Time Needed to Prep
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Chinese

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (1 large skillet of chow mein)

Dietary Preferences: Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Protein

Ingredient 01 1 lb chicken breast, diced
Ingredient 02 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Vegetables

Ingredient 03 2 cups coleslaw mix with carrots
Ingredient 04 1 cup bean sprouts
Ingredient 05 2 green onions, sliced

→ Sauces and Seasonings

Ingredient 06 2 tbsp soy sauce
Ingredient 07 2 tbsp oyster sauce
Ingredient 08 1 tsp chili oil, or to taste
Ingredient 09 Salt, to taste
Ingredient 10 Black pepper, to taste

→ Oils and Noodles

Ingredient 11 2 tbsp olive oil
Ingredient 12 14 oz pre-cooked stir-fry noodles

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until nearly cooked through.

Step 02

Add shrimp to the skillet with the chicken and continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.

Step 03

Reduce heat to medium. Stir in bean sprouts and coleslaw mix, followed by the pre-cooked noodles. Toss well to combine.

Step 04

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili oil. Pour over the skillet contents and stir to coat evenly.

Step 05

Sauté everything together for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to blend. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. You can substitute oyster sauce with a combination of hoisin and soy sauce, or try mushroom or fish sauce for depth.
  2. This dish is customizable—use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains shellfish (shrimp)
  • Contains soy
  • May contain gluten from noodles or sauces

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 520
  • Total Fat: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 48 grams
  • Protein Amount: 38 grams