👨‍🍳 Best Chicken Lo Mein Recipe – Quick Dinner Idea

Have you ever wondered if you can create a restaurant-quality Chicken Lo Mein faster than ordering takeout? Discover the secrets to whipping up the best chicken lo mein recipe in just 30 minutes!

Embrace the simplicity and robust flavors of homemade chicken lo mein, featuring tender chicken stir-fried with a medley of vegetables and coated in a savory stir-fry sauce. With the flexibility to use fresh or ready-cooked noodles, this dish adapts to your schedule seamlessly. Whether you’re looking for a quick chicken lo mein for a busy weeknight or a versatile meal to impress, this no-fuss recipe offers the perfect balance of taste and texture, ensuring a delightful dinner without the need for side dishes — although extra sauce on top never hurts!

Key Takeaways

• Cooking time: Only 30 minutes for a swift and vibrant dinner.
• Delicious flavor: Savory stir-fry sauce with premium ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fresh ginger.
• Healthy meal: 554 calories per serving with a balanced breakdown of macronutrients.
• Versatile additions: Customize with your favorite vegetables or optional peanut halves for extra crunch.
• No side dishes needed: Perfectly balanced with noodles, chicken, and a medley of vegetables.

Introduction to Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese dish beloved for its winning combination of soft noodles, juicy stir-fried chicken, and colorful vegetables tossed in a flavorful sauce. This guide provides an introduction to creating an authentic chicken lo mein in your kitchen, rivaling the takeout experience with the added freshness of home cooking.

Rated at an impressive 4.80 out of 5 stars, this recipe stands out for its delicious blend of ingredients such as button mushrooms, peppers, spring onions, chicken breast, soy sauce, and sesame oil. The use of spaghetti as an alternative to traditional lo mein noodles brings a unique twist while staying true to the essence of traditional chicken lo mein.

The beauty of Chicken Lo Mein lies in its versatility. Ingredient substitutes like canned mushrooms, frozen onion and pepper mix, frozen stir-fry vegetables, or tofu make this dish adaptable to various dietary preferences and pantry availabilities.

Here are some tips for making lo mein noodles without them sticking:

• Ensure the skillet has enough sauce before adding the noodles.
• Cook noodles until just done to avoid stickiness.
• Toss cooked noodles with sesame oil and let them cool before adding to the stir fry.

For those health-conscious cooks, this dish offers a balanced nutritional profile per serving with approximately 445 calories, 50g carbohydrates, 36g protein, 11g fat, and 4g fiber. The recipe comes together in about 20 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal choice.

Ingredients for the Best Chicken Lo Mein

To craft the best simple chicken lo mein, gather the following essential Chicken Lo Mein ingredients:

Main Ingredients

Main ingredients for a classic chicken lo mein include:

• 1/2 lb chicken breast, sliced into 1/4″ strips
• Various vegetables like carrots, cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, and bean sprouts
• Sauces such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, shaoxing wine, sesame oil, sugar, and water
• 16 oz lo mein noodles (or 12 oz dried noodles)
• A selection of oils like avocado oil and sesame oil for stir-frying

Optional Ingredients

Optional ingredients allow for personalization to suit various tastes and dietary preferences:

• Additional vegetables such as onions, garlic, red pepper, sugarsnap peas, and spring onions
• Alternative proteins like tofu or shrimp

These optional Chicken Lo Mein ingredients not only add variety but also enhance the overall flavor and nutrition of the dish. With just a few adjustments, this versatile recipe can be tailored to fit any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a festive gathering like Chinese New Year.

Preparing the Chicken for Lo Mein

To create the perfect easy chicken lo mein, it’s essential to focus on preparing the chicken properly. This involves both marinating the chicken to infuse it with rich flavors and using the correct slicing techniques to ensure it cooks evenly and retains its moisture.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step to ensure your easy chicken lo mein is bursting with flavor. Start with 1/2 lb chicken breast, sliced into 1/4″ strips. Create a marinade using the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1/2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp water
• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Combine the marinade ingredients and pour over the chicken strips. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors and makes it tender when cooked. Preparation time for the entire chicken lo mein recipe is around 30 minutes, which includes the marination.

Slicing Techniques

Proper slicing techniques are vital when you prepare chicken for lo mein. Cut the chicken breast against the grain into 1/4″ strips. Slicing against the grain helps the chicken to remain tender and ensures even cooking.

Here’s a helpful table outlining the slicing and marinating details:

By following these steps meticulously, you can ensure that the chicken in your easy chicken lo mein is perfectly flavored and cooked to perfection.

Choosing the Right Noodles

The noodles you choose can make or break your Chicken Lo Mein dish. The texture and flavor depend heavily on selecting and cooking the right type of noodles. Let’s delve into the variety of noodles available and how to cook them perfectly for your Chicken Lo Mein noodles.

Types of Noodles

When it comes to cooking Lo Mein noodles, several options are at your disposal:

• Egg Noodles: The most traditional choice, offering a chewy texture that is ideal for Chicken Lo Mein noodles.
• Whole Wheat Noodles: A healthier alternative to regular egg noodles without compromising flavor.
• Rice Noodles: Provides a lighter option suitable for those on a gluten-free diet.
• Spaghetti: While not traditional, it can be used in a pinch for a similar texture.

Each type of noodle can bring a unique element to your Chicken Lo Mein, but for the most authentic experience, egg noodles are recommended.

Cooking Noodles Perfectly

Perfectly cooked noodles are essential for a delightful Chicken Lo Mein dining experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your noodles are cooked to perfection:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the noodles and cook until just al dente. For egg noodles, this typically takes about 3-4 minutes.
3. Immediately drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Toss the noodles with a teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Correctly cooking Lo Mein noodles is paramount in achieving the desired chewy texture, making them the perfect foundation for your savory Chicken Lo Mein dish.

By carefully selecting and cooking your noodles, you lay the groundwork for an unforgettable Chicken Lo Mein experience. With options ranging from traditional egg noodles to healthier whole wheat alternatives, and a meticulous cooking process, ensure your Chicken Lo Mein noodles are always spot-on.

The Perfect Lo Mein Sauce

Crafting the perfect Lo Mein sauce is an art that begins with selecting essential sauces that bring out the authentic flavors of the dish. The core ingredients often include rich oyster sauce, savory soy sauce, and the sweet touch of Kecap Manis. A hint of white pepper and toasted sesame oil adds a depth of flavor that’s both complex and harmonious.

Essential Sauces

For an authentic Lo Mein sauce, essential components are indispensable. The following are the must-haves:

• Oyster Sauce
• Soy Sauce
• Kecap Manis
• White Pepper
• Toasted Sesame Oil

Making a Custom Lo Mein Sauce

Adapting the Lo Mein sauce recipe to suit personal preferences or dietary requirements can transform a good dish into a perfect one. Here are some custom modifications you can try:

1. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
2. Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
3. Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a heaping tablespoon of peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor.

Ensuring every batch of Chicken Lo Mein is enveloped in a delightful and authentic Lo Mein sauce not only enhances its taste but guarantees a delightful dining experience.

Vegetables in Chicken Lo Mein

Vegetables play a critical role in bringing sweetness, crunch, and vibrant colors to a classic chicken lo mein recipe. A variety of quick-cooking vegetables can be mixed and matched depending on what is available in your pantry, making Chicken Lo Mein an excellent option for utilizing leftover produce.

Commonly used Chicken Lo Mein vegetables include matchstick carrots, green cabbage, and red bell peppers. For a different texture and flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like snow peas, mushrooms, broccoli, or bok choy. This not only adds variety but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.

Here’s a brief list of popular vegetable options for Chicken Lo Mein:

• Red and green bell peppers
• Broccoli
• Snow peas
• Carrots
• Cabbage
• Zucchini
• Scallions

To maintain the crispness of the Chicken Lo Mein vegetables, it’s essential to stir-fry them for a short duration on medium to high heat. This will ensure they remain crunchy and retain their bright color.

Tip: For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with tofu and swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth. This makes the classic chicken lo mein recipe an adaptable dish to suit different dietary preferences.

Whether you choose the basic vegetables or opt for more variety, the inclusion of fresh, vibrant Chicken Lo Mein vegetables will elevate your dish both in flavor and presentation.

Step-by-Step Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Preparing the best chicken lo mein recipe is quick and easy, ready in just 25 minutes. Follow this step-by-step chicken lo mein guide to create a flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week.

1. Marinate the Chicken: Begin by cutting 1 pound of chicken breasts into thin strips. Marinate for 15-30 minutes using a mixture of 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon ground black pepper.
2. Cook the Noodles: While the chicken marinates, cook 8 ounces of lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Mix 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a bowl. This will be the savory base for your lo mein.
4. Sauté the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large pan. Cook the marinated chicken strips for about 5-8 minutes until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add 2 teaspoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Stir-fry minced garlic, shredded carrots, snow peas, and spinach for 5-6 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and crisp.
6. Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the pan. Add the cooked noodles and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.

This step-by-step chicken lo mein technique ensures a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This dish is not only customizable with proteins like steak, shrimp, or tofu but also requires simple pantry ingredients making it an accessible dinner option. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Serving this best chicken lo mein recipe yields a delicious meal for up to 4 people. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

Mastering the authentic chicken lo mein cooking tips can turn your homemade chicken lo mein into a restaurant-quality delight. From selecting the right cookware to managing the heat effectively, precision is key.

Using a Wok

For achieving an authentic chicken lo mein flavor, utilizing a carbon steel wok is highly recommended. The carbon steel material is perfect for high-heat cooking, which is essential for stir-frying. A well-seasoned wok not only enhances the taste but also minimizes sticking, making the dish more enjoyable to prepare. When it comes to vegetables, opting for approximately 3 cups of sliced cabbage can add the right crunch and flavor to your homemade chicken lo mein.

Heat Management

Proper heat management is one of the most critical authentic chicken lo mein cooking tips. Always preheat your wok before adding oil to ensure that the ingredients fry quickly, rather than steam. Cooking the lo mein noodles 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions helps avoid overcooking and maintains the desired texture. Moreover, cooking in small batches prevents overcrowding the wok, ensuring that each ingredient maintains its unique texture and flavor.

Quick and Easy Chicken Lo Mein Variations

Chicken Lo Mein is an extremely versatile dish that can be quickly customized to suit various taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you love a spicy kick or prefer vegetarian options, there’s a Chicken Lo Mein variation for everyone. Below, we delve into some popular adjustments to the traditional Chicken Lo Mein recipe.

Spicy Chicken Lo Mein

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the spicy chicken lo mein version is a fantastic option. This variation involves adding chili flakes, sriracha, or a dash of chili sauce into the mix to elevate the flavor profile. Along with the main ingredients, like boneless, skinless chicken breast, red bell peppers, and lo mein noodles, the additional spice creates a delightful twist. The prep time remains at just 15 minutes, with another 15 minutes of cook time, ensuring a quick yet flavorful meal.

Vegetarian Chicken Lo Mein

Creating a vegetarian chicken lo mein is easier than ever. Simply substitute the chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or Quorn pieces. This variation maintains the essence of the original dish while catering to vegetarian diets. Use the same vegetables—carrots, broccoli, snow peas, and water chestnuts—but opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This approach not only keeps meal prep under 30 minutes but also aligns with vegetarian dietary requirements.

Experimenting with different chicken lo mein variations can easily cater to different cravings and dietary needs, making this a family-friendly favorite. Enjoy the delicious versatility of Chicken Lo Mein today!

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken Lo Mein can be a fantastic meal-prep option if you follow the correct storage and reheating methods. To properly store chicken lo mein, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers to prevent condensation. It’s crucial to store chicken lo mein in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety. When refrigerated, the dish generally stays fresh for 3-4 days, but for prolonged storage, freezing is advisable.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, it’s essential to know how to effectively reheat chicken lo mein while maintaining its original texture and flavor. Here are detailed methods for reheating:

It’s important to avoid common reheating mistakes. Reheat chicken lo mein once to prevent texture deterioration. Use moderate heat and add a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. Reheating multiple times or using too high heat can negatively impact the quality. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan, and remember to consider different components like vegetables and protein.

To maximize the freshness and quality of your stored chicken lo mein, using airtight containers is vital. This helps in maintaining its taste and preventing it from drying out. If opting to freeze, using freezer bags or airtight containers is recommended. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Chicken Lo Mein that is flavorful and perfectly cooked involves avoiding several common mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a delightful dish every time.

Overcooking Noodles

One of the common chicken lo mein mistakes is overcooking the noodles, which leads to a mushy and unappealing texture. For the best results, it’s essential to follow precise cooking instructions and timings. Whether using pre-cooked or uncooked lo mein noodles, timing their preparation is crucial. Additionally, after cooking, immediately rinse the noodles under cold water to halt further cooking and maintain an ideal texture.

Incorrect Vegetable Preparation

Properly preparing vegetables is another key aspect of achieving the perfect Chicken Lo Mein. Uniformly cutting the vegetables helps ensure even cooking. Common vegetables used in these recipes include napa cabbage, mung bean sprouts, scallions, julienned carrots, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Cooking these vegetables over high heat in stages can prevent overcrowding in the wok and allows each ingredient to maintain its crunch and color. By preparing and cooking the vegetables correctly, one can avoid common chicken lo mein mistakes and ensure superior taste and texture.

To achieve a delicious, authentic chicken lo mein, follow these perfect chicken lo mein tips to avoid common issues and craft a delightful dish every time.

Homemade Chicken Lo Mein vs. Takeout

Choosing between homemade chicken lo mein and chicken lo mein takeout can be a delightful dilemma. Making homemade chicken lo mein allows you to control every ingredient, ensuring a healthier meal tailored to your tastes. The recipe, published on August 24, 2016, only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, showcasing its efficiency compared to waiting for delivery.

One significant advantage of homemade chicken lo mein is the ability to adjust flavors to your preference. The recipe involves 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 5 tablespoons of sesame oil, and 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, allowing you to modify sugar or spice levels according to your needs. And let’s not forget the satisfaction that comes from crafting a beloved dish from scratch, knowing exactly what’s in your food.

The ingredient list is simple yet robust, featuring essentials like 3 scallions, 2 garlic cloves, and 1 lb of thin chicken breast cut into strips. Adding 1 cup each of shredded carrots and cabbage, as well as a large sliced red pepper, ensures a fresh and vibrant dish. Even better, substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti if needed, providing flexibility and ease of access for homemade chicken lo mein.

The caloric content per serving stands at 421 calories, with nutrient breakdowns highlighting a balanced meal: 13.1g of fat, 50.7g of carbohydrates, and 22.7g of protein. Such details underscore the health benefits and nutritional transparency that restaurant menus often lack.

The homemade chicken lo mein recipe exemplifies culinary customization and efficiency, making it a favorable alternative to chicken lo mein takeout. Its simplicity in ingredient sourcing and the rewarding experience of home cooking solidify it as a reliable choice for any meal occasion.

Health Benefits of Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken Lo Mein is not only a delectable dish but also packs a punch with its numerous health benefits. Integrating nutritious chicken lo mein into your diet can be a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced meal that is both satisfying and wholesome.

One of the primary health benefits of chicken lo mein lies in its high protein content. Chicken, a key ingredient, provides essential amino acids that are crucial for muscle repair and overall bodily functions. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Apart from the protein, the vegetables in chicken lo mein offer a significant source of fiber and vitamins. Ingredients such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas contribute important nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. These vegetables are not only tasty but also help in aiding digestion and boosting the immune system.

The wheat flour and egg-based noodles used in traditional lo mein supply carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. Opting for whole wheat noodles can enhance the dish’s nutritional profile by providing more fiber. Barilla® Whole Grain pasta, made with 51% whole wheat, is a perfect alternative that adds three times the fiber compared to regular pasta.

1. Calories per serving: 305 kcal
2. Carbohydrates: 38g
3. Protein: 17g
4. Fat: 10g

Here is a table that provides a detailed comparison of two types of chicken lo mein options:

One can clearly see that integrating more vegetables and opting for whole wheat noodles can further amplify the health benefits chicken lo mein provides. This nutritious chicken lo mein variation ensures that you enjoy a flavorful meal while also prioritizing your health.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken Lo Mein can be a satisfying standalone dish or paired with delightful side dishes and beverages to create a more comprehensive meal. The key to enhancing the dining experience is by combining the rich flavors of Lo Mein with complementary sides and drinks.

Pairing with Side Dishes

To make serving chicken lo mein an even more enjoyable experience, consider pairing it with appetizing side dishes. Here are 15 suggested side dishes for chicken lo mein:

• Beef and Broccoli
• Steamed Dumplings
• Spring Rolls
• Hong Kong Noodles
• Cashew Chicken
• Crispy Tofu
• Air Fryer Bok Choy
• Chinese Curry Sauce
• Moo Shu Pork
• Garlic Green Beans
• Sweet and Sour Chicken
• Szechuan Eggplant
• Fried Rice
• Crispy Wontons
• Peking Duck Pancakes

Each of these side dishes offers unique flavors and textures that complement the savory taste of chicken lo mein. For example, the hearty Beef and Broccoli adds a meaty dimension to the meal, while Steamed Dumplings provide a bite-sized contrast to the noodles.

Ideal Beverages

The right beverages can elevate the flavors of serving chicken lo mein. Consider these options:

• Green Tea: Its subtle flavors complement the savory notes of Lo Mein without overpowering them.
• Light Beer: Offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of chicken lo mein.

In summary, carefully chosen side dishes and beverages can enhance the enjoyment of serving chicken lo mein, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quick, hearty meal at home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this comprehensive guide on classic chicken lo mein emphasizes that creating a traditional, simple, and delicious Chinese dish at home is both quick and easy. By exploring 39 varied recipes from reputable sources like Foolproof Living, 365 Days of Slow Cooking and Pressure Cooking, and Spend With Pennies, you are equipped with three distinct cooking approaches: traditional, pressure-cooked, and homestyle. These methods cater to diverse tastes and time constraints, ensuring everyone can find a suitable recipe.

Covering essential aspects such as selecting the right ingredients, avoiding common mistakes, and offering suggestions for serving, this guide provides everything needed for an authentic Chicken Lo Mein experience. Key information on noodle types, flavor enhancement strategies, and storage tips add value for both novice and experienced cooks. Simple chicken lo mein variations like substituting proteins with tofu, shrimp, or pork and using different oils or sauces demonstrate this dish’s adaptability to various dietary needs and preferences.

Lastly, leveraging tools like Stashcook can streamline the process of accessing, organizing, and storing your collection of Chicken Lo Mein recipes for seamless meal planning. With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes, creating a delicious and nutritious dish costing around $20 becomes an attainable goal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits of classic chicken lo mein as a standalone meal or paired with complementary dishes for a more substantial dining experience. This guide ensures you are well-prepared to achieve a perfect Chicken Lo Mein every time.