Easy Chicken Lo Mein Flavorful and Quick Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner, this Easy Chicken Lo Mein recipe is perfect for you. With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful meal on the table in no time. I’ll walk you through every detail, from cooking the noodles to sautéing the chicken and veggies. Let’s dive in and get ready to impress your taste buds tonight!

Ingredients

Complete Ingredient List

For this easy chicken lo mein, you need:

– 8 oz lo mein noodles

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)

– 1 cup snap peas

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced

– 3 tablespoons soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or vegetarian alternative)

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions for Common Ingredients

You can swap out some ingredients for what you have on hand:

– Noodles: Use spaghetti or rice noodles if you can’t find lo mein.

– Chicken: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef.

– Veggies: Use any veggies you like, such as carrots or zucchini.

– Soy Sauce: Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a soy-free option.

– Oyster Sauce: Use hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor.

Recommended Fresh Herbs and Garnishes

Garnish makes your dish pop! Here are some great options:

– Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness.

– Cilantro: Fresh cilantro can brighten the dish.

– Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds crunch.

– Chili Flakes: If you like heat, add chili flakes on top.

These ingredients and tips will help you create a delicious chicken lo mein that suits your taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Lo Mein Noodles

To start, boil a large pot of water. Once the water is bubbling, add the 8 oz of lo mein noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions. You want them tender but still firm to the bite. After cooking, drain the noodles in a colander. Set them aside so excess water can drain off.

Preparing the Chicken

Next, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the 1 lb of thinly sliced chicken breast. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked. Look for a golden-brown color. After cooking, take the chicken out and place it on a plate.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Now, with the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of minced ginger. Stir quickly to avoid burning. Add 1 cup of broccoli florets, 1 sliced bell pepper, and 1 cup of snap peas. Stir-fry the veggies for about 3 to 4 minutes. They should stay tender-crisp and bright.

Combining Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Then, add the drained lo mein noodles. Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Use tongs to gently toss everything for 2 to 3 minutes. Ensure all ingredients are mixed well and heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Scoop the chicken lo mein into serving bowls. For a beautiful touch, garnish each bowl with chopped green onions. They add a fresh look and flavor. For extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top or serve with pickled vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To cook chicken well, start with thin slices. Thin slices cook faster and stay juicy. Heat oil in your skillet until hot. Add the chicken and don’t crowd the pan. This helps it brown evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Look for a golden color. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F. Remove the chicken and let it rest a bit. This keeps it tender.

Best Practices for Sautéing Vegetables

For great vegetables, use high heat. This keeps them crisp and colorful. Start with garlic and ginger. Sauté them briefly, just until fragrant. Add your vegetables quickly. Broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas work well. Stir them often for even cooking. Aim for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. They should still have a bright color. This step adds flavor and keeps the dish fresh.

Customizing Sauce Levels to Taste

Adjusting sauce levels can change your dish. Start with the base amounts in the recipe. You can add more soy or oyster sauce for extra flavor. If you like it spicy, include some chili paste. Taste as you go. This helps you find the right balance. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take away! Enjoy experimenting to make it your own.

Variations

Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations

For a vegetarian or vegan chicken lo mein, simply swap the chicken for tofu. Tofu adds great protein and can soak up the flavors well. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cube it and sauté until golden. For the sauces, make sure to use a vegan oyster sauce or skip it entirely. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Alternative Protein Options

If you want to change the protein, there are many options. Shrimp and beef both work nicely in this dish. For shrimp, cook them quickly until they turn pink. For beef, thinly slice sirloin or flank steak and sauté until browned. You can also use cooked chicken leftovers if you have any. This recipe is flexible and lets you use what you have at home.

Different Vegetable Combinations

You can mix up the vegetables to suit your taste. Try using bok choy, carrots, or baby corn for a colorful dish. Snow peas can be a great addition for that sweet crunch. You can even add some spinach or kale at the end for a boost of greens. The key is to keep the veggies bright and crisp, enhancing both flavor and texture in your chicken lo mein.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Chicken Lo Mein

To store leftover chicken lo mein, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Taste

Reheating chicken lo mein is simple. You can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, place it in a safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If using a skillet, add a splash of water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring often, until hot. This keeps the noodles from drying out.

Freezing Instructions and Tips

Freezing chicken lo mein is a great way to save it for later. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of noodles. Egg noodles or rice noodles work well too. Just cook them according to the package. Adjust the cooking time to keep them firm. This way, they won’t turn mushy in your dish.

What can I add to make it spicier?

To add heat, try adding red pepper flakes. Sriracha sauce is also a great choice. You can add these during cooking or at the end. Start with a small amount, then taste. Adjust to your spice level. Fresh jalapeños or chili oil also work well.

How do I make a gluten-free version of Chicken Lo Mein?

For a gluten-free dish, swap the soy sauce with tamari. Tamari gives a similar taste without gluten. Choose gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or zucchini noodles. Always check labels to ensure no gluten is present. This way, everyone can enjoy your Chicken Lo Mein!

This article covered the key steps for making Chicken Lo Mein. We explored each ingredient, from essential items to tasty herb garnishes. I shared tips for cooking the noodles and chicken perfectly. You learned how to sauté vegetables and combine everything for great flavor.

Feel free to customize the dish with different proteins or veggies. Store leftovers well, so you can enjoy them later. Remember, this meal is adaptable and fun to make! Enjoy creating your own delicious version of Chicken Lo Mei