The aroma of sizzling stir-fried chicken mingling with fresh vegetables and savory noodles wafts through the air, instantly making your mouth water. Chicken Lo Mein is not just a dish; it’s a delightful dance of flavors that transports you straight to the bustling streets of your favorite Chinese restaurant without leaving your kitchen.
Picture this: you’re hosting a cozy movie night, and instead of reaching for the takeout menu, you decide to whip up this crowd-pleaser. The best part? You’ll be the culinary hero of the evening! With each bite, you’ll taste the love and effort you put into creating such a comforting meal while relishing in the delightful satisfaction of homemade goodness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Lo Mein recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with vibrant flavors, it pleases even the pickiest eaters.
- The colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching dish for any occasion.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies, it’s a meal everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients for Chicken Lo Mein
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Approximately 3-4 breasts are ideal for serving about four people, but feel free to adjust based on your needs.
- Lo Mein Noodles: These soft and chewy noodles absorb flavors beautifully; you can find them in most grocery stores.
- Fresh Vegetables: Bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli add crunch and color. Choose whatever veggies you love or have on hand.
- Fresh Garlic: Fresh is best! Use several cloves for that punchy flavor that elevates your dish.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended so you can control how salty your dish gets.
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil brings a nutty richness that ties all the flavors together.
- Brown Sugar: Just a touch adds sweetness to balance out the saltiness from the soy sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by slicing your boneless chicken breasts into thin strips. Chop up those vibrant vegetables into bite-sized pieces and mince several cloves of garlic. Trust me; having everything prepped makes cooking smoother than butter!
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water so they don’t stick together like awkward high school friends at a reunion.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add some oil and let it heat up. Toss in those chicken strips seasoned with salt and pepper. Stir-fry until they turn golden brown and are cooked through—about 5-7 minutes should do it.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Once your chicken is looking fabulous, add in those chopped vegetables along with minced garlic. Stir-fry for another few minutes until everything is tender but still has that nice crispness—no one likes soggy veggies!
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar until combined. Pour this sauce over your chicken and veggie mixture in the skillet. Stir everything well so every piece gets coated in that glorious sauce.
Step 6: Combine with Noodles
Finally, add those cooked lo mein noodles into the skillet. Toss everything together until well mixed and heated through—about two more minutes should do it!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra soy sauce if desired for that perfect finishing touch.
There you have it! A homemade Chicken Lo Mein that’s bursting with flavor—your family will think you’re a culinary wizard! Enjoy each bite while reminiscing about that one time you almost burned toast (we’ve all been there).
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Lo Mein recipe combines tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a savory sauce, making it a weeknight favorite.
- It’s quick to whip up and perfect for satisfying those noodle cravings.
- Plus, you can customize it based on your pantry’s contents!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then sear it until golden brown. Cook the noodles while veggies sizzle in the pan. Finally, mix everything with the sauce for a quick toss. Voila, dinner is served!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what’s lurking in your fridge. Add some crushed red pepper for an extra kick or toss in peanuts for crunch. Your Chicken Lo Mein can be as unique as you are!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out and microwave until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high heat when cooking to achieve that signature stir-fry flavor without overcooking the ingredients.
- Always taste your sauce before adding it to ensure it’s just right.
- And don’t forget to prep all ingredients beforehand for seamless cooking!
Sometimes, I whip up Chicken Lo Mein after a long day at work and my family thinks I’ve become a culinary wizard! Their smiles make every stir worthwhile and remind me why I love cooking so much.
FAQs :
What is Chicken Lo Mein?
Chicken Lo Mein is a popular Chinese dish that features tender chicken stir-fried with fresh vegetables and soft egg noodles. The dish is typically flavored with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, giving it a savory taste. It’s versatile, allowing the addition of various vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and bok choy. Served hot, Chicken Lo Mein is a favorite for both takeout and home cooking. By making it at home, you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste.
How do you make Chicken Lo Mein from scratch?
To make Chicken Lo Mein from scratch, start by marinating sliced chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch. Stir-fry the chicken in a hot pan until cooked through. Next, add your choice of vegetables such as broccoli and snap peas. Once the veggies are tender-crisp, add pre-cooked lo mein noodles along with additional soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through. This simple process ensures a delicious homemade meal.
Can I use other proteins in Chicken Lo Mein?
Yes! While chicken is a classic choice for Chicken Lo Mein, you can easily swap it out for other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu. Each option brings its unique flavor and texture to the dish. If you’re using shrimp or beef, adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly. This flexibility makes Chicken Lo Mein an adaptable recipe that fits various dietary preferences.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Lo Mein?
Chicken Lo Mein pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. For a light option, consider serving it alongside steamed dumplings or spring rolls. If you want something refreshing, a simple cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar works beautifully. Alternatively, serve it with hot-and-sour soup for a complete meal experience. These sides enhance the overall dining experience without overwhelming the palate.
Conclusion for Chicken Lo Mein :
In summary, Chicken Lo Mein is an easy-to-make dish that brings delightful flavors right to your table. With its combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory noodles, it satisfies cravings while being incredibly customizable. You can enjoy this popular recipe for dinner any night of the week or impress guests during gatherings. By following simple steps and experimenting with different ingredients, you’ll create your perfect version of Chicken Lo Mein every time!
Chicken Lo Mein
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Chicken Lo Mein is a flavorful and colorful dish that features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory lo mein noodles. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Slice boneless chicken breasts into thin strips. Chop bell pepper, carrots, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add chicken strips seasoned with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once chicken is cooked, add chopped vegetables and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional few minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar until well combined. Pour sauce over chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet; stir well to coat everything.
- Add cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until mixed and heated through (about two minutes). Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 plate (400g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability. For extra flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat or chopped scallions as a garnish.
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