Nissin Chow Mein Chicken Noodles

Nissin is one of those brands that’s been in American pantries for decades and their Chow Mein line is one of the more underrated things they make. I really like this one. The hoisin flavor takes me straight back to a noodle dish my mom used to make for me and my brother growing up and that kind of nostalgia is hard to argue with.

Produced in the United States. Distributed by Japan.

What’s in the package

A square noodle brick and a savory sauce packet. The package also includes dehydrated cabbage and carrots built right into the noodle brick which is a nice touch.

How to prepare it

Remove the lid and sauce packet and set the sauce packet aside. Pour boiling water into the bowl just enough to cover the noodles, then let it sit for 3 to 4 minutes and stir. If the noodles need more water to stay hydrated add a little more hot water, then carefully drain the excess using the lid as a strainer. Stir in the sauce packet and you’re done.

How does it taste

The first thing that stands out is the hoisin flavor which gives this a distinctly Chinese American takeout character. It’s savory and slightly sweet and the dehydrated cabbage and carrots rehydrate nicely and add a subtle sweetness that complements the sauce well. There is zero spice to speak of so this is a great option for people who can’t handle heat.

The noodles themselves are thicker than your typical instant ramen brick and have a pleasant chew once properly cooked. The sauce coats them evenly and the overall result is closer to a lo mein than anything else in the instant noodle category.

How does it compare

Compared to other dry instant noodles this one has a distinctly American Chinese takeout identity that sets it apart. Something like Indomie Mi Goreng leans more Southeast Asian and savory while this goes full hoisin sweetness. If you grew up eating chow mein at American Chinese restaurants this will feel immediately familiar. It’s less complex than most Asian dry noodles but the nostalgia factor is real.

How to level it up

I would add crushed peanuts, chopped hot dog, fried egg, cabbage, and a drizzle of chili oil and hot sauce.

Final Verdict

With a few easy additions this becomes a satisfying quick meal that punches above its convenience level.

Where to buy Nissin Chow Mein Chicken Noodles

• Amazon
• Walmart