Chicken Lo Mein
This Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen. With juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory noodles, it’s perfect for dinner any night of the week. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe will have you slurping up every last bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chicken Lo Mein can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of sauces creates a rich taste that beats takeout hands down.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean chicken, this meal provides essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty dish, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Chicken Lo Mein easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need.
Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!
- Stays Razor-Sharp: Ice-hardened blade keeps its edge longer than ordinary knives
- Superior Grip Control: Unique finger hole design gives you perfect balance and safety
- Built to Last a Lifetime: Premium stainless steel blade with elegant beech wood handle
Customer Reviews ★★★★★
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok: A wok heats quickly and evenly, which is essential for stir-frying your ingredients perfectly.
- Mixing Bowls: These are great for marinating the chicken and mixing sauces without making a mess.
- Whisk: Use a whisk to blend all the sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring even flavor throughout the dish.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 pound chicken breasts (skinless and boneless, cut into small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 cup Chinese cabbage (shredded)
- 1 cup carrots (julienned)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
For the Noodles
- 16 ounce lo mein noodles (or any other Asian style noodles)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain them and set aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until well combined. Set this mixture aside to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
In another medium-sized bowl, toss together the chicken pieces with soy sauce, ginger, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
Step 4: Sauté the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large wok over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes or until it starts to brown and is no longer pink inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same wok. Then add sliced shiitake mushrooms, shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and chopped onion. Stir-fry these vegetables for about one minute while tossing them around.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken back into the wok. Add in the cooked noodles along with your prepared sauce. Toss everything together gently until well mixed. Turn off heat once everything is combined.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Chicken Lo Mein with chopped green onions before serving hot. Enjoy this delicious meal!
How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein
Serving Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the savory notes of the dish.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
Pair with Spring Rolls
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crunchy and light, these are perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce.
- Shrimp Spring Rolls: For seafood lovers, these rolls add a touch of elegance to your dinner.
Serve with Soups
- Hot and Sour Soup: A tangy complement that enhances the Asian flavors of Chicken Lo Mein.
- Egg Drop Soup: A creamy option that pairs well with noodle dishes.
Accompany with Additional Vegetables
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed for a crisp texture that balances the noodles.
- Steamed Broccoli: Provides a nutritious side that adds color and crunch.
Offer Extra Sauces
- Soy Sauce: A classic choice for those who love an extra hit of umami.
- Chili Oil: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, drizzle some chili oil over the dish before serving.
How to Perfect Chicken Lo Mein
Perfecting your Chicken Lo Mein can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve maximum flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the overall taste significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook them al dente for the best texture; they will finish cooking in the wok.
- Preheat Your Wok: A hot wok ensures quick cooking and helps seal in flavors.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to substitute or add different vegetables based on your preference or seasonality.
- Add Protein Variations: Experiment with shrimp or tofu for different protein options if you’re looking to mix things up.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Lo Mein
Accompanying Chicken Lo Mein with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent suggestions:
- Edamame: Steamed young soybeans sprinkled with sea salt for a healthy snack option.
- Fried Rice: A classic choice, this savory dish complements the flavors of lo mein beautifully.
- Chinese Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad provides crunch and acidity.
- Pickled Vegetables: Adds tanginess that pairs well with rich noodle dishes.
- Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Sweet and savory skewers that make a great protein addition.
- Potstickers: Crispy dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables offer delicious variety.
- Miso Soup: A warm, comforting soup that rounds off any Asian-inspired meal nicely.
- Szechuan Green Beans: Spicy and flavorful, these beans add an exciting kick to your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Lo Mein, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking noodles for too long can make them mushy. Always follow package instructions for perfect texture.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Take a few minutes to let the chicken soak in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
- Crowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches for best results.
- Using Too Much Sauce: Overloading on sauce can make your Chicken Lo Mein soggy. Start with a little and add more if needed during cooking.
- Neglecting Fresh Veggies: Using wilted or frozen vegetables can dull flavors and textures. Always choose fresh ingredients for vibrant color and crunch.
- Not Garnishing: Skipping garnishes like green onions can miss an opportunity for added flavor and presentation. Always finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or greens.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Chicken Lo Mein
- Place Chicken Lo Mein in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Chicken Lo Mein
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet, add a splash of water or oil and stir over medium heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Lo Mein?
Chicken Lo Mein is a popular Asian dish that features stir-fried noodles tossed with chicken, vegetables, and savory sauces.
How do you customize Chicken Lo Mein?
You can easily customize Chicken Lo Mein by adding your favorite proteins like shrimp or tofu and swapping out vegetables based on what you have available.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! While lo mein noodles are traditional, you can use spaghetti or rice noodles if they’re what you have on hand.
Is Chicken Lo Mein healthy?
Chicken Lo Mein can be made healthier by using less oil, opting for whole grain noodles, or adding more vegetables to the mix.
How do I make my Chicken Lo Mein saucier?
To make your Chicken Lo Mein saucier, simply increase the amount of soy sauce or add a bit more oyster sauce according to taste.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Lo Mein recipe is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. With its juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and flavorful sauce, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. Feel free to customize it by adding different proteins or veggies based on your preferences!
Chicken Lo Mein
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of homemade Chicken Lo Mein, a comforting dish that brings the essence of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen. This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory noodles, all tossed together in a rich sauce that beats takeout any day. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this customizable meal is sure to please everyone at the table. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious dinner without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts
- 16 ounces lo mein noodles
- 2 cups shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 cup Chinese cabbage (shredded)
- 1 cup carrots (julienned)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil in a bowl; set aside.
- Marinate chicken pieces with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a wok over high heat; sauté marinated chicken until browned.
- Stir-fry sliced mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, and onion in residual oil for about one minute.
- Combine cooked chicken and noodles with the prepared sauce; mix well and heat through.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (320g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
