
This crispy chow mein delivers the best of both textures: golden pan-fried noodles on the bottom and tender chicken with vegetables in a glossy savory sauce on top. It is a fast, takeout-style dinner that feels special but comes together with simple ingredients at home.
In a bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, Chinese cooking wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and a pinch of white pepper.
Transfer 1 tablespoon of the sauce to the chicken and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Whisk the cornstarch into the remaining sauce mixture until smooth, then stir in the chicken stock. Set aside.
Preheat the oven to low to keep the cooked noodle cakes warm. Divide the chow mein noodles into 2 portions and shape each into a loose 8-inch round, keeping the strands slightly tangled so they hold together.
Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 noodle round and drizzle 2 tablespoons of water around the pan.
Cook until the water evaporates, then gently press the noodles down with a spatula. Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the underside is crisp and golden.
Slide the noodle cake onto a plate, invert it back into the skillet, and cook the second side for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes until golden and crisp. Transfer to a tray and keep warm in the oven. Repeat with the remaining noodles.
If needed, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of peanut oil to the skillet and increase the heat to high. Add the garlic and onion and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry just until the outside turns white. Add the carrot and bok choy stems and cook for 30 seconds, then add the cabbage and bok choy leaves and cook for 1 minute until they begin to wilt.
Give the sauce a quick stir, then pour it into the skillet. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables. Place each noodle cake on a plate, spoon the saucy chicken and vegetables over the center, and garnish with scallions before serving immediately.
If you cannot find fresh chow mein noodles, fresh lo mein or other fresh egg noodles work well. Do not drown the noodle cakes in sauce or they will lose their crunch too quickly. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, though the noodles are best enjoyed fresh and crisp.




