Sheet pan chow mein is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. This one-pan wonder takes the beloved flavors of classic chow mein and simplifies them into a convenient and delicious meal. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner that’s packed with veggies and your choice of protein, all cooked to perfection on a single sheet pan. In this article, we’ll guide you through creating a sheet pan chow mein that’s not only easy to make but also customizable to your taste preferences.
The Allure of Sheet Pan Chow Mein:
Sheet pan chow mein offers a multitude of attractions:
- Efficiency: Streamline your cooking process with minimal dishes and prep.
- Versatility: Customize your chow mein with your choice of protein and vegetables.
- Healthy: Packed with colorful vegetables for added nutrition.
- Flavorful: Enjoy the familiar and delicious taste of classic chow mein.
- Quick: Have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Key Ingredients for Sheet Pan Chow Mein:
- Protein: Options include chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, or your preferred protein.
- Chow Mein Noodles: Choose fresh or dried noodles, depending on your preference.
- Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas.
- Sauce: A flavorful combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Optional Add-Ins: Customize your chow mein with ingredients like green onions, bean sprouts, or water chestnuts.
Sheet Pan Chow Mein Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz chow mein noodles (fresh or dried)
- 2 cups of your choice of protein (e.g., chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Noodles:
- If using dried chow mein noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Season the Protein:
- Season your choice of protein with salt, pepper, and a dash of soy sauce. If using tofu, consider pressing it to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cubing it.
4. Arrange on the Sheet Pan:
- Spread the seasoned protein, broccoli florets, bell pepper slices, snap peas, and matchstick carrots on the prepared sheet pan.
5. Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
6. Drizzle and Toss:
- Drizzle the sauce over the ingredients on the sheet pan and toss everything together to ensure even coating.
7. Bake:
- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the protein is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
8. Add Noodles:
- If using fresh chow mein noodles, add them to the sheet pan during the last 5 minutes of baking, tossing to combine with the other ingredients. If using pre-cooked dried noodles, you can toss them in during this step as well.
9. Serve and Garnish:
- Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
10. Serve Hot:
- Serve your delicious sheet pan chow mein hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Chow Mein:
- Protein Choice: Choose your preferred protein or even a combination of proteins. Ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking. Other great options include bok choy, mushrooms, or baby corn.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, oyster sauce for sweetness, or sesame oil for nutty richness.
- Noodle Type: Fresh chow mein noodles are available in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. If using dried noodles, cook them separately before adding to the sheet pan.
- Garnish: Fresh green onions and sesame seeds add a wonderful finishing touch.
- Preheating the Pan: Preheating the sheet pan in the oven before adding the ingredients can help achieve a good sear on your protein.
Conclusion:
Sheet pan chow mein is the ultimate dinner solution for busy evenings. By following this easy recipe and embracing the versatility of chow mein, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Say hello to sheet pan chow mein, an effortless and delicious way to enjoy the familiar flavors of classic chow mein with the convenience of a one-pan meal.
