Chicken Lo Mein Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Lo Mein Recipe: Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American dish that combines tender noodles, flavorful chicken, and crisp vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe has you covered. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours.

So, why will you love this recipe? It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and takes only 30 minutes to prepare. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Chicken Lo Mein

To make Chicken Lo Mein, you’ll need a mix of simple and flavorful ingredients:

For the chicken and noodles:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
• 8 oz of Lo Mein noodles or spaghetti

For the vegetables:

• 1 cup of shredded carrots
• 1 bell pepper (sliced thinly)
• 1 cup of broccoli florets
• ½ cup of sliced mushrooms
• 2-3 green onions (chopped)

For the sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)

Additional seasonings:

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools can make the process seamless:

Preparation tools:

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls

Cooking tools:

• Large skillet or wok
• Saucepan for noodles
• Tongs or a spatula

How to Prepare for Chicken Lo Mein

Proper preparation is key to success:

1. Prep the chicken: Thinly slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of soy sauce. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
2. Chop the vegetables: Slice the bell pepper and mushrooms thinly. Cut broccoli into small florets. Chop the green onions into small pieces, separating the green tops for garnish.
3. Cook the noodles: Boil a large pot of water and cook the Lo Mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and toss them lightly with sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Making the Sauce for Lo Mein

The sauce is the heart of this dish. Here’s how to make it:

1. Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch. Ensure there are no lumps in the mixture.
2. Adjust flavors: Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or saltiness as needed. Set aside for later use.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat the pan: Use a large skillet or wok and heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Stir frequently and cook until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

1. Start with aromatics: Add a bit more oil to the pan and toss in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add vegetables: Stir-fry the carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Combining Everything

1. Add noodles and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, followed by the noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
2. Cook through: Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.

Variations of Chicken Lo Mein

• Shrimp Lo Mein: Substitute shrimp for chicken and follow the same process.
• Vegetarian Lo Mein: Skip the meat and add tofu or extra vegetables like zucchini or snap peas.
• Spicy Lo Mein: Add chili oil or Sriracha for an extra kick of heat.

Tips for the Best Chicken Lo Mein

• Use high heat: This helps achieve the perfect stir-fry texture.
• Don’t overcook noodles: Slightly undercooked noodles work best, as they’ll absorb some sauce.
• Prep everything first: Stir-frying moves quickly, so have all ingredients ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Chicken Lo Mein with:

• Egg rolls or spring rolls
• Hot and sour soup
• Steamed dumplings

For presentation, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top.

Storage and Reheating

1. Storing leftovers:
   Place leftover Lo Mein in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating tips:
   Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the texture.

Health Benefits of Chicken Lo Mein

• Packed with protein and fiber from chicken and vegetables.
• Can be adjusted for lower sodium by using reduced-sodium soy sauce.
• Offers a balanced meal with carbs, protein, and healthy fats.

FAQs about Chicken Lo Mein

What is Chicken Lo Mein?

Chicken Lo Mein is a popular Chinese dish that features soft noodles tossed with chicken and a variety of vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce. It’s known for its balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite in many Chinese restaurants worldwide.

What kind of noodles are used in Chicken Lo Mein?

Traditional Lo Mein noodles are made from wheat flour and eggs, giving them a slightly chewy texture. However, you can also use other types of soft noodles, such as spaghetti or linguine, as a substitute.

Is Chicken Lo Mein healthy?

Chicken Lo Mein can be a healthy option if prepared with lean chicken breast, lots of vegetables, and moderate amounts of sauce to control the sodium and fat content. Consider using low-sodium soy sauce and increasing the proportion of vegetables to noodles.

Can Chicken Lo Mein be made gluten-free?

Yes, to make Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure that all other ingredients, like soy sauce, are gluten-free versions. Many stores offer tamari, a gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce.

How do I store leftover Chicken Lo Mein?

Leftover Chicken Lo Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a little water or additional sauce to keep the noodles moist.

Can I add other proteins to Chicken Lo Mein?

Absolutely! While chicken is a popular choice, you can easily substitute or add other proteins like beef, shrimp, or tofu. This makes Lo Mein a versatile dish that can cater to different dietary preferences and needs.

Conclusion

Chicken Lo Mein is a flavorful, quick, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe will help you create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and share this delicious dish with family and friends.