When it comes to quick and delicious meals, Chicken Lo Mein often stands out as a favorite. This comforting dish brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into a bowl of goodness that’s sure to satisfy. With tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a delectable sauce all tossed with luscious lo mein noodles, this recipe ticks all the boxes for a delightful dinner. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it also allows you the freedom to customize according to your preferences. So, let’s dive into the art of making Chicken Lo Mein!
Why We Love This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
One of the primary reasons you’ll adore this Chicken Lo Mein recipe is its remarkable versatility. You can easily modify it depending on what you have on hand or your personal taste. Love mushrooms? Throw them in! Prefer broccoli over bell peppers? No problem! This dish plays well with many different vegetables. Moreover, the preparation time is minimal, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a quick lunch that feels indulgent.
Another reason this recipe shines is its balance of flavors. The savory soy sauce combined with the nutty taste of sesame oil creates a rich base that brings out the best in everything mixed together. You’ll enjoy a range of textures, from the tender chicken to the crisp vegetables and soft noodles. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning less fuss in the kitchen and more time to enjoy your meal.
Ingredients about Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
To whip up a delicious plate of Chicken Lo Mein, you’ll need the following 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
Gathering these ingredients marks the first step towards enjoying a fulfilling Chicken Lo Mein feast. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in contributing to the dish’s overall flavor and allure.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Directions
Begin the cooking process by preparing your ingredients. Start by trimming the chicken breasts and slicing them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and allow them to better absorb the flavors of the sauce. Next, chop the vegetables—slice the bell peppers and carrots, and chop the green onions. Having everything prepped will streamline your cooking process and make it easier for you to focus on each step.
Now it’s time to cook the lo mein noodles. Follow the instructions on the package to achieve the perfect texture, making sure they’re cooked until al dente. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of the sesame oil to your pan and allow it to warm up. When it’s hot, toss in the chicken. Cook the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, it’s time to sauté your vegetables. Add the sliced bell peppers, carrots, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to become tender while still retaining a nice crunch. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will enhance the visual appeal of your dish.
Next comes the exciting part. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with your veggies. Now, add the lo mein noodles into the mix. With the noodles now in the skillet, pour in the low-sodium soy sauce, and add the minced garlic for that distinct aroma and flavor. Toss everything together until thoroughly mixed. You want to ensure the noodles and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce, allowing each bite to be bursting with flavor.
Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve. Make sure to taste the dish and adjust any seasoning as necessary. If you prefer more flavor, you can add additional soy sauce or sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra crunch.
How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Serving Chicken Lo Mein is as simple and delightful as preparing it. You’ll want to present this dish in a way that emphasizes its colorful components. Consider using large, shallow bowls or plates, as they allow you to showcase the vibrant mix of vegetables alongside the noodles.
When plating, make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly. Start with a generous helping of the noodles at the bottom, layering the chicken and vegetables on top for visual appeal. To make it even more inviting, garnish with a few extra slices of green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This not only enhances the look of your dish but adds a little extra texture.
Chicken Lo Mein is best enjoyed hot right off the stove. However, if you want to take it up a notch, serve it with chopsticks for an authentic experience. Don’t forget to have extra soy sauce on the side—many enjoy drizzling a little more over their meal for that extra punch of flavor.
Expert Tips: Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Choosing the Right Noodles: If you can find fresh lo mein noodles, they make a significant difference in texture. However, dried noodles work quite well if that’s what you have. Just be sure to follow the cooking directions closely.
- Cooking Chicken: For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken in soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil before cooking. This not only seasons the meat well but also adds moisture.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: The key to great stir-fried vegetables is to ensure they remain crisp. You want them to have a bit of bite, so don’t overcook them—a few minutes is all you need.
- Explore Different Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables you add; snow peas, broccoli, or even bean sprouts can elevate your dish.
- Timing is Everything: Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking because stir-frying moves quickly. You want to be ready to add ingredients in quick succession.
How to Store Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s often hard to resist finishing the whole dish), storing Chicken Lo Mein is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Make sure to seal them tightly to maintain freshness.
You can store Chicken Lo Mein in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you want to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the noodles seem a little dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive them.
Variation of Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Chicken Lo Mein is an incredibly adaptable dish, which means the variations you can create are virtually limitless. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:
- Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, beef, or even tofu to make it vegetarian. Each protein adds a unique flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Additions: If you’re looking to pack in more nutrients, consider adding spinach, snap peas, or zucchini. They can be easily incorporated into your stir-fry routine.
- Sauce Customization: You can experiment with different sauces such as oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or adding chili paste for a spicy kick.
- Herbal Touch: Fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil can be sprinkled on top just before serving for a refreshing flavor boost.
- Noodle Alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using whole-grain noodles or even spiralized vegetables instead of traditional noodles.
FAQ about Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
What is Chicken Lo Mein?
Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese dish made with stir-fried chicken, fresh vegetables, and lo mein noodles, all tossed together in a savory sauce. It’s known for its delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a popular meal choice.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Lo Mein?
This dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it an efficient meal option for busy weeknights.
Can I make Chicken Lo Mein in advance?
Yes! Chicken Lo Mein is perfect for meal prep. Just store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Is Chicken Lo Mein healthy?
Chicken Lo Mein can be a healthy meal, especially when you load it with colorful vegetables and use low-sodium soy sauce. Adjusting ingredients based on your dietary preferences can also enhance its health benefits.
What can I serve with Chicken Lo Mein?
Ultimately, Chicken Lo Mein stands well alone, but you can serve it with spring rolls, dumplings, or a side salad for a more complete meal.
Chicken Lo Mein
Equipment
- Skillet or Wok
- Pot for Noodles
Ingredients
- 3-4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz Lo Mein Noodles Fresh or dried
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Sliced
- 1 medium Yellow Bell Pepper Sliced
- 2 pieces Carrots Thinly sliced
- 2 pieces Green Onions Chopped
- 0.25 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by slicing chicken and vegetables.
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked lo mein noodles, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Toss everything until well combined and heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
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