Introduction

Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with soft noodles and a medley of vegetables in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, allowing you to serve up a restaurant-quality dish right from your own kitchen. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can create a delicious Lo Mein that the whole family will love.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 1 pound, sliced into thin strips
Lo Mein noodles – 8 ounces
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
Oyster sauce – 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Bell pepper – 1, sliced
Carrots – 1 medium, julienned
Green onions – 2, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Noodles

Cook lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary and toss in your choice of vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas). Stir-fry until they are tender yet crisp.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Once the vegetables are cooked, add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Combine Chicken and Noodles

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked lo mein noodles. Mix everything well to combine.

Add Sauce

Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the noodle mixture. Toss until all ingredients are evenly coated in the sauce.

Serve

Remove from heat and portion the lo mein into bowls. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Tips for Perfect Lo Mein

Make sure not to overcook the noodles; they should be al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot ingredients.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetable choices based on personal preference or seasonal availability.

Protein Alternatives

This recipe can be adapted by substituting chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for different flavor profiles.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover lo mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Cook techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that involves cooking ingredients over high heat while stirring continuously. This technique is essential for making chicken lo mein, as it helps to achieve a good sear on the chicken and retains the crispness of the vegetables.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken prior to cooking enhances its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger can infuse the chicken with a delicious taste and ensure it remains juicy during the cooking process.

Blanching

Blanching vegetables before adding them to the stir-fry helps to preserve their vibrant colors and textures. This technique involves briefly boiling the vegetables and then shocking them in ice water to stop the cooking process.

Noodles Preparation

Using pre-cooked or quick-cooking noodles can save time when preparing chicken lo mein. It’s important to follow the package instructions for the perfect texture, ensuring they are cooked al dente for the best results in the final dish.

Flavor Balancing

Balancing flavors is key in creating a delicious lo mein. Combining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil provides a rich umami flavor, while adding ginger and garlic enhances the overall taste profile.

Finishing Touches

Adding fresh green onions or sesame seeds at the end of cooking not only boosts flavor but also provides a nice crunch and visual appeal to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like beef, shrimp, or tofu, depending on your preference.

What type of noodles can I use for lo mein?

Egg noodles are traditional for lo mein, but you can also use thin spaghetti or any preferred noodle that cooks quickly.

Can I make lo mein ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook them when ready to eat.

How can I make lo mein vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu for protein.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Enjoying Chicken Lo Mein is not just about savoring delicious flavors; it’s also about the joy of creating a wholesome meal that brings friends and family together. This versatile dish can be tailored to fit your taste preferences, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, Chicken Lo Mein is sure to become a favorite in your home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Lo Mein

Swap out chicken for your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a vibrant, meatless option that still packs a punch.

Shrimp Lo Mein

Add shrimp for a seafood twist on the classic dish. The natural sweetness of shrimp complements the savory sauce wonderfully.

Beef Lo Mein

If you crave a heartier meal, beef strips can be a delicious alternative. Marinate the beef for extra flavor before adding it to your lo mein.

Spicy Chicken Lo Mein

Kick up the heat by adding chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy version that ignites the taste buds.

Sesame Chicken Lo Mein

Incorporate sesame oil and seeds to give your dish a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Tofu Lo Mein

Replace chicken with tofu for a protein-rich, vegetarian option. Marinated and pan-fried tofu adds texture and flavor to the dish.

Lo Mein Stir-Fry

Transform your lo mein into a stir-fry by adding extra vegetables and a splash of soy sauce, cooking everything together for an added depth of flavor.

Coconut Curry Lo Mein

For a unique twist, mix in coconut milk and curry paste to create a rich, flavorful sauce that elevates traditional lo mein to a new level.