Chicken Lo Mein

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table, this Chicken Lo Mein is just what you need! It’s one of my family’s favorite recipes because it’s quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant colors and tastes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this homemade version of the classic Chinese favorite always hits the spot.

The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce creates a delightful meal that everyone loves. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you’ll want to whip it up again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this Chicken Lo Mein is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Chicken Lo Mein are simple and wholesome. Most of them are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Let’s gather what we need for this delightful dinner!

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 Tablespoon canola oil
• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tablespoons ginger, grated
• 1 (8 oz) mushrooms, thinly sliced (baby bellas or shiitake)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 ½ cup Napa cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup matchstick carrots

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon light brown sugar

For the Noodles

• 12 oz pasta, cooked according to package directions

Variations

This Chicken Lo Mein recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you enjoy or have available.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add extra veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can be great additions for more color and nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha if you like a little heat in your dish.
• Use different noodles: Instead of pasta, opt for traditional lo mein noodles or rice noodles for authenticity.

How to Make Chicken Lo Mein

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the canola oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. It’s important to ensure your chicken is fully cooked so that it’s tender and safe to eat. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step brings out the natural flavors of these ingredients and sets a delicious base for your stir-fry.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add the mushrooms, onion, Napa cabbage, and matchstick carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Keeping them slightly crunchy adds texture to your dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cornstarch, sesame oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar. This mixture will thicken up when heated and coat all your ingredients beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the cooked pasta. Pour the sauce over everything while stirring gently to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. This ensures every bite is flavorful!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Chicken Lo Mein immediately while it’s hot! I love garnishing mine with some green onions or sesame seeds if I have them on hand. Enjoy this satisfying meal with family or friends — it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Lo Mein

Making Chicken Lo Mein at home can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some strategies to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ahead: Having all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking will save you time and keep the stir-frying process smooth. This is especially important since stir-frying happens quickly.

• High Heat is Key: Cooking on medium-high heat helps to sear the chicken and vegetables, locking in flavors and keeping everything crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and lead to steaming rather than frying.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables for added crunch and flavor. Fresh produce tends to have a better taste and texture compared to frozen or canned options.

• Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to modify the sauce according to your preferences. If you like it spicier, add a dash of chili oil or fresh chili peppers. For more umami flavor, consider adding a bit of mushrooms or extra soy sauce.

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Since you’ll be heating the noodles again in the stir-fry, cook them until just al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy in the final dish.

How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein

Presentation is key when serving Chicken Lo Mein; it not only makes the meal appealing but also enhances the dining experience. Here are some ideas for serving this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions over your Chicken Lo Mein for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can add a delightful crunch and nutty taste that complements the dish beautifully.
• Cilantro Leaves: A handful of fresh cilantro leaves can brighten up your meal with their aromatic freshness.

Side Dishes

• Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a nice contrast in texture and make for an excellent appetizer alongside your lo mein.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutritional value while its vibrant green color enhances your plate’s appeal.
• Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup offers comfort and complements the main dish perfectly, making it a great choice for a complete meal.
• Fried Rice: Pairing your Chicken Lo Mein with fried rice creates an enticing combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy any hungry diner.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that brings out the best in your homemade Chicken Lo Mein!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Lo Mein is not only quick to make but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and store it for later, making busy weeknights a little less hectic.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chicken Lo Mein to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the Chicken Lo Mein as per the recipe but do not add the sauce until ready to serve.
• Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• If using the microwave, cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Lo Mein:

Can I make Chicken Lo Mein without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

What is the best way to cook Chicken Lo Mein?

The best way is to stir-fry on high heat, allowing all ingredients to cook quickly while retaining their flavors and textures. This method ensures that your Chicken Lo Mein turns out delicious every time!

Can I add more vegetables to my Chicken Lo Mein?

Yes! Feel free to customize your dish by adding more vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas based on your preferences.

How do I prevent my noodles from sticking together?

Make sure to rinse your cooked noodles under cold water before adding them to the stir-fry. This helps separate them and prevents sticking!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Chicken Lo Mein as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all by yourself. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or proteins—make it your own! Happy cooking!