The aroma of steaming chicken lo mein wafts through the air, bringing a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine tender chicken nestled among perfectly cooked noodles, bathed in a savory sauce that’s just the right amount of salty and sweet, with vibrant veggies adding crunch and color. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
I remember the first time I attempted to make chicken lo mein at home; my kitchen turned into a whirlwind of chaos. Noodles everywhere, a splash of soy sauce on the floor, and yet, when I finally took that first bite, all my culinary mishaps melted away. It was pure joy! Whether you’re whipping this up for a casual dinner with friends or a special occasion, this dish will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal
- The flavor profile combines savory and slightly sweet notes for an unforgettable taste experience
- Its visual appeal makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table setting
- Enjoy its versatility by customizing ingredients based on what you have at home or personal preferences
I still chuckle when I recall my friends’ reactions during my first chicken lo mein feast; they were convinced I’d ordered takeout!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
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Lo Mein Noodles: Look for fresh or dried noodles; both work well but fresh gives a delightful chewiness
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Bell Peppers: Use colorful varieties for added sweetness and visual appeal
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Carrots: Julienne them for quick cooking and extra crunch
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Green Onions: These add a fresh zing; chop them finely for best distribution
For the Sauce:
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Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
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Sesame Oil: Adds a rich nutty flavor; use sparingly as it’s potent
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Cornstarch: A little goes a long way to thicken your sauce beautifully
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Sugar: Just enough to balance out the savory elements; brown sugar works well here
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables and chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes cooking quicker and ensures even cooking throughout.
Cook the Chicken First: Heat some oil in your favorite frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink inside—around 5-7 minutes should do.
Add Aromatics & Veggies : Toss in minced garlic along with bell peppers and carrots. Stir-fry them together until fragrant—about 3 minutes—until they soften just slightly but maintain their crunch.
Cook Noodles Separately : Boil water in another pot, then cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain them well then set aside while keeping them warm.
Create the Sauce : In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, and a splash of water until smooth. This will be your magic potion that brings everything together.
Combine & Serve : Add cooked noodles to your chicken and veggie mix. Pour over your prepared sauce while tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Now you have an irresistible chicken lo mein ready to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it! Enjoy every flavorful bite as you savor this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
You Must Know
- This delightful chicken lo mein recipe is not just about taste; it’s a quick weeknight dinner solution
- The mix of flavors and textures makes it irresistible
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or veggies you have lying around
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the lo mein noodles while preparing your sauce for efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in shrimp or tofu, add extra veggies, or play with spices to make this dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove for the best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly tender chicken, marinate it with soy sauce and cornstarch beforehand
- Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be al dente!
- Fresh vegetables add vibrant color and crunch that elevate your dish to restaurant quality
Sharing my first attempt at chicken lo mein brings a smile. I accidentally added too much soy sauce and turned it into a salty soup! Thankfully, my friends found it hilarious and still ate every bite.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins in chicken lo mein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or tofu work beautifully as substitutes for chicken.
What vegetables pair well with chicken lo mein?
Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas are great choices for added crunch and color.
How can I make chicken lo mein gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles to create a delicious gluten-free version.
Chicken Lo Mein
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Lo Mein is a beloved dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and chewy lo mein noodles in a savory-sweet sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mixed colors)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 4 green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing and chopping the chicken and vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and no longer pink (5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic, bell peppers, and carrots, stir-frying for about 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Boil water in a separate pot; cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and keep warm.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, brown sugar, and water until smooth.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the chicken and veggies; pour over the sauce while tossing gently to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
