Short introduction
Chicken Lo Mein is a delicious noodle dish that brings together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory flavors. It’s a popular choice for quick dinners and is loved for its satisfying texture and taste. This dish combines the warmth of a stir-fry with the heartiness of noodles, making it perfect for any meal.
Why you’ll love it
You will love Chicken Lo Mein for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, allowing you to whip up a tasty meal in less than 30 minutes. Second, this dish is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and protein. Third, it offers a hearty meal that is still light on the stomach. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves fresh minced garlic
Substitutions & key variations
You can easily substitute chicken with other proteins such as shrimp, beef, or tofu, based on your preference. If you want to switch up the flavors, try using different sauces like teriyaki or oyster sauce. For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the chicken and add more vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms. Lo Mein noodles can be replaced with other types of noodles like spaghetti or rice noodles if needed.
Step-by-step
Step 1
Gather all ingredients and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2
Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and sauté the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
Step 4
In the same pan, stir-fry the bell peppers, carrots, and green onions until they are tender yet crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked lo mein noodles, soy sauce, minced garlic, and any additional spices you prefer. Toss everything together until well mixed.
Step 6
Serve hot with extra soy sauce if desired.
Success tips
To achieve the best texture, make sure not to overcook the lo mein noodles; al dente is the key. When cooking the chicken, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly but don’t let it dry out, as this will affect the overall taste. Common mistakes include overcrowding the pan while stir-frying, which can lead to steaming rather than frying. Always remember to keep the heat at medium-high for the right sautéing temperature.
How to serve
Chicken Lo Mein is best served hot straight from the skillet. You can top it with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. Side dishes like an Asian cucumber salad or egg rolls can complement this meal nicely, making for a full dining experience.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the Chicken Lo Mein in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it; just ensure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make Chicken Lo Mein ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook Chicken Lo Mein ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: The traditional soy sauce contains gluten. Use a gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Lo Mein?
A: While you can freeze it, the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce while cooking.
Q: What side dishes go well with Chicken Lo Mein?
A: Consider serving it with steamed dumplings, rice, or an Asian-inspired salad.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Chicken Lo Mein provides a balance of protein from the chicken and essential vitamins from the vegetables. Each serving is rich in flavors and can easily be adapted for dietary needs. Keep an eye on the sodium content from the soy sauce if you’re watching your intake.
Conclusion
Chicken Lo Mein is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that everyone can enjoy. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Chicken Lo Mein!
Links to related recipes
- Vegetable Stir-Fry
- Beef Chow Mein
- Sesame Chicken Noodles
- Pork Fried Rice
Enjoy your culinary adventure with Chicken Lo Mein!
Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients
For the main dish
- 3-4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with shrimp, beef, or tofu.
- Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried) Can be replaced with spaghetti or rice noodles.
- 1 piece red bell pepper
- 1 piece yellow bell pepper
- 2 pieces carrots (thinly sliced)
- 2 pieces green onions (chopped)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves fresh minced garlic
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and sauté the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
- In the same pan, stir-fry the bell peppers, carrots, and green onions until they are tender yet crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked lo mein noodles, soy sauce, minced garlic, and any additional spices you prefer. Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Serve hot with extra soy sauce if desired.