Egg Foo Young with Chicken is more than just a dish-it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and comforting textures that have delighted taste buds around the world for generations. Bursting with fluffy eggs, tender chicken, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this asian classic offers a perfect harmony of savory and subtle sweet notes, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy exterior. Whether enjoyed at a bustling street market or recreated in your home kitchen, Egg Foo Young invites you to savor a culinary tradition that’s as rich in history as it is in taste. In this article,we’ll explore the origins,essential ingredients,and a step-by-step recipe that will bring this flavorful masterpiece from wok to table with ease.
Egg Foo Young with Chicken: A Flavorful Asian Classic Recipe
Egg Foo Young with Chicken offers a delightful journey through Asian cuisine in the comfort of your kitchen.This dish, rich with history and bursting with savory flavors, perfectly bridges the crispy, fluffy omelette with tender chicken and an indulgent brown gravy. Whether it’s your frist attempt or a cherished family favorite, mastering this recipe will elevate your culinary repertoire and impress any food lover at your table.
Prep and Cook Time
- readiness: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
Medium – approachable for home cooks ready to master classic Asian flavors

Ingredients
- For the Egg Foo Young:
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- ½ cup bean sprouts, rinsed and drained
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
- ½ cup shredded Napa cabbage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Savory Brown Gravy:
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce (for color)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the cooked chicken, bean sprouts, Napa cabbage, minced garlic, white parts of green onions, sesame oil, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Heat the pan: Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat in a non-stick skillet. Ensure the oil is hot to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Cook the egg foo young patties: Pour a ladle of the egg mixture into the pan, shaping it into a roughly 4-inch round pancake. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the edges are golden and the bottom is set but not burnt. Flip carefully-use a spatula and press lightly to hold together. Cook the second side for another 3 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Repeat with remaining mixture,adding oil as needed.
- Make the savory brown gravy: In a small saucepan, combine chicken broth, oyster sauce, soy sauces, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir the cornstarch slurry thoroughly,then drizzle into the simmering broth while stirring continuously. Watch as the gravy thickens to the perfect consistency, about 2-3 minutes. Finish with toasted sesame oil for that fragrant depth.
- Plate and serve: Arrange the golden egg foo young patties on a serving platter. Spoon the glossy brown gravy generously over the top or serve on the side. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast.
Chef’s notes
- For ultra-fluffy egg foo young, separate the egg whites and yolks. whip the whites until stiff peaks form, then fold gently into the yolks and other ingredients.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Use a non-stick skillet and moderate heat to avoid overcooking or burning; patience results in a beautifully browned crust.
- Make the gravy ahead and keep warm over low heat. Re-stir before serving to maintain the silky texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 2 days and reheated in a toaster oven to retain crispiness.
Serving Suggestions and Tips to Customize Your Chicken Egg Foo Young Delight
Egg foo Young with Chicken is versatile and perfect for any meal. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice or alongside fried rice for a complete experience. A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a dash of chili oil can add an exciting twist. For an added crunch, try garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or julienned cucumbers. Pair your plate with light sautéed greens like bok choy or snow peas to balance the rich flavors.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 18g |
For those looking to deepen their appreciation of Asian culinary traditions, consider exploring Classic Chinese Stir Fry Techniques on our site. Additionally,authoritative insights on oyster sauce usage and history can be found at Serious eats.

Q&A
Q&A: Egg Foo Young with Chicken – A Flavorful Asian Classic Recipe
Q: What exactly is Egg Foo Young?
A: Egg Foo Young is a savory Chinese omelette, typically packed with a variety of vegetables, meats, and sometimes seafood. Think of it as a crispy-edged, fluffy egg patty bursting with layers of flavor-comfort food that’s both hearty and elegant.
Q: Why use chicken in Egg Foo Young?
A: Chicken adds a tender, protein-rich element that complements the silky eggs and crunchy veggies. Its mild flavor balances well with the savory sauce, making the dish both nutritious and deeply satisfying.
Q: What ingredients make this Egg Foo young stand out?
A: The magic lies in the simple yet thoughtful combination: fresh eggs, diced chicken, bean sprouts, green onions, water chestnuts, and shiitake mushrooms. Each brings a unique texture and flavor, creating a harmonious medley in every bite.
Q: How do I get that perfect crispy edge and fluffy center?
A: It’s all about the pan heat and oil. Use medium-high heat and a generous amount of oil to fry the patties until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside, while keeping the inside tender and airy.Q: What’s the secret to the signature Egg Foo Young sauce?
A: The sauce is a glossy, savory gravy made from chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of cornstarch for thickening. It’s poured generously over the omelette, adding moisture and an umami punch that elevates every forkful.
Q: Can I customize this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Swap chicken for shrimp, pork, or tofu, or add your favorite veggies like peas and carrots. Egg Foo Young is wonderfully adaptable-feel free to get creative while honoring the dish’s Asian roots.
Q: Is Egg Foo Young arduous to make at home?
A: Not at all! With a bit of prep and a hot skillet, this recipe comes together quickly, making it an excellent weeknight meal. plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress friends with your culinary skills and bring a taste of Asia to your table.
Q: What should I serve alongside Egg Foo Young?
A: Pair it with steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried greens for a balanced meal, or enjoy it as a standalone dish with a cup of hot tea. Either way, you’ll savor the comforting flavors of an Asian classic done right.
concluding Remarks
In the world of Asian cuisine, few dishes capture the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and comfort quite like Egg Foo Young with Chicken. This classic recipe not only brings together the tender richness of chicken and the silky fluffiness of eggs but also invites a symphony of savory sauces and fresh ingredients that awaken the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious foodie, mastering this dish offers a delicious way to explore authentic tastes and culinary traditions. so next time you crave a meal that’s both satisfying and steeped in heritage, let Egg Foo Young with Chicken grace your table-a timeless flavor journey in every bite.

