His professional career began in 2008 when he led the Daytona Cubs to the Florida State League finals.

In 2010 for the Smokies and the Triple-A Iowa Cubs, Chen pitched to a cumulative 3.98 ERA with 96 strikeouts over 32 appearances.

[2] Chen began the season with Tennessee and Iowa, and in June 2011 he was loaned to the Piratas de Campeche of the Mexican League.

Frustrated with his lack of opportunities, Chen did not report to Spring Training in 2012, and the Cubs released him on March 10, 2013.

In August 2014, Chen was sidelined with inflammation in his shoulder tendon, and upon his return from the disabled list he was utilized as a reliever.