Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Picture this: a steaming bowl of noodles, slicked with a savory sauce, studded with tender chicken and crisp vegetables. That’s right, we’re diving headfirst into a flavor explosion with a sensational **Chicken Lo Mein Recipe** that will have you ditching takeout faster than you can say “chopsticks!”

This isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill noodle dish; this is a vibrant, customizable, and oh-so-satisfying meal that comes together quicker than ordering delivery. Get ready to unleash your inner chef (even if your inner chef is usually hiding under a pile of dirty dishes) because tonight, we’re making magic!

Here’s why you’re going to become obsessed with this **Chicken Lo Mein Recipe**:

• This recipe offers lightning-fast preparation, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave deliciousness without the fuss of a long cooking process.
• Savor a symphony of savory, umami-rich flavors dancing on your palate, combining the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy elements.
• With its colorful array of crisp vegetables and succulent chicken, this lo mein is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
• Easily adapt this recipe to your preferences with your favorite veggies or protein, creating a personalized dish that suits your unique taste.

Ingredients for Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Lo Mein Noodles Fresh or dried, lo mein noodles provide the perfect chewiness and texture for this dish. If you can’t find lo mein, spaghetti or fettuccine can work in a pinch.

Chicken Breast Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, provides a lean and protein-rich base. Marinating the chicken beforehand can add extra flavor.

Soy Sauce A cornerstone of Asian cuisine, soy sauce adds a salty and umami-rich flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.

Sesame Oil A drizzle of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor that elevates the dish. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.

Vegetable Oil Used for stir-frying, vegetable oil has a neutral flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine. Canola or peanut oil are good substitutes.

Broccoli Florets These add a pop of color and a healthy dose of vitamins. Ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.

Carrots Thinly sliced or julienned carrots add sweetness and crunch. Consider using pre-shredded carrots for convenience.

Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and color. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers work well.

Green Onions Adds a mild onion flavor and a fresh, vibrant garnish. Slice thinly on a bias for visual appeal.

Garlic Minced garlic is essential for adding pungent flavor. Use fresh garlic for the best results.

Ginger Freshly grated ginger adds warmth and complexity. Peel the ginger before grating.

Cornstarch Used as a thickening agent for the sauce, creating a glossy finish. Mix it with water to form a slurry before adding it to the sauce.

Chicken Broth Provides a flavorful liquid base for the sauce. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.

Rice Vinegar Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.

Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. Adjust the amount to your liking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for at least 15 minutes. This will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook the lo mein noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Toss with a teaspoon of sesame oil and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and carrots and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp. Add the bell pepper and cook for another minute. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch slurry. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and easy **Chicken Lo Mein Recipe**!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best Chicken Lo Mein Recipe, cook the chicken first, searing it to lock in flavor. Then, prepare your noodles while simultaneously getting your sauce ingredients ready. This efficient sequence ensures each component is perfect.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe! Try swapping broccoli for bok choy, adding a dash of ginger for extra zing, or including sliced mushrooms for a heartier meal. It’s all about making it your own!

Storing & Reheating

Store your leftover Chicken Lo Mein Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave until heated through, or stir-fry in a pan for best results, ensuring the noodles don’t dry out.

Here are some essential tips to make your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe a standout:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; cook in batches to ensure a beautiful, flavorful crust forms.
• Be sure to taste and adjust the sauce before adding the noodles, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced to your liking.
• Toss the noodles thoroughly with the sauce immediately after cooking to prevent sticking and maximize flavor absorption.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

My first attempt at lo mein was a sticky disaster! I learned the hard way that constant stirring and not overcooking the noodles are absolutely key to achieving that perfect, slurp-worthy texture.

The Quest for the Perfect Chicken Lo Mein Recipe: A Noodle-y Adventure

Let’s talk about noodles. Not just any noodles, but the glorious, slurp-worthy strands of Chicken Lo Mein. We’ve all been there, staring into the takeout container, wondering if we could ever recreate that deliciousness at home. Well, my friends, wonder no more! I’m here to guide you on a hilarious and ultimately triumphant journey to crafting the ultimate Chicken Lo Mein Recipe in your very own kitchen.

Forget those sad, gloppy imitations you might have encountered. This recipe is about vibrant flavors, perfectly cooked noodles, and enough customization options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. We’re talking restaurant-quality (maybe even better!), without the questionable ingredients and the hefty delivery fee. Plus, you get to wear your comfy pants while you cook. Wins all around!

Why This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is Different (and Better!)

So, what sets this recipe apart from the mountain of other lo mein recipes lurking on the internet? It’s simple: attention to detail, fresh ingredients, and a healthy dose of my personal obsession with achieving noodle perfection.

First, we’re ditching the mystery sauces and embracing real, recognizable ingredients. No weird powders or artificial flavorings here! We’re building a flavor profile that’s both complex and comforting, using a combination of savory, sweet, and umami-rich elements.

Second, we’re focusing on technique. From properly searing the chicken to perfectly cooking the noodles, every step is designed to maximize flavor and texture. I’ll share all my secret tips and tricks, gleaned from years of noodle-related experimentation (yes, that’s a thing!).

And finally, we’re embracing flexibility. This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to swap out vegetables, adjust the sauce to your liking, and add your own personal flair. After all, the best recipes are the ones that you make your own!

Gathering Your Noodle-licious Arsenal: Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s assemble our ingredients. Don’t worry, you probably have most of these in your pantry already. If not, a quick trip to the grocery store will have you ready to rock and roll.

• **Lo Mein Noodles:** The star of the show! Look for fresh or dried lo mein noodles in the Asian section of your grocery store. If you can’t find lo mein specifically, spaghetti or linguine can work in a pinch, but the texture will be slightly different.
• **Chicken Breast:** Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal for this recipe. It cooks quickly and evenly, and it’s a good source of protein. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
• **Soy Sauce:** The foundation of our savory sauce. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
• **Oyster Sauce (Vegetarian Alternative Available):** This adds a deep umami flavor to the sauce. For a vegetarian option, look for mushroom-based “oyster” sauce.
• **Sesame Oil:** A drizzle of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor that’s characteristic of Asian cuisine.
• **Rice Vinegar:** This provides a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
• **Brown Sugar:** A little sweetness is essential for a well-rounded lo mein sauce.
• **Garlic & Ginger:** These aromatic ingredients are the backbone of many Asian dishes. Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.
• **Vegetables:** Here’s where you can get creative! I like to use a combination of broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas. But feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bok choy, or cabbage.
• **Cornstarch:** This is used to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish.
• **Chicken Broth:** This adds moisture and flavor to the sauce.
• **Green Onions:** A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished dish.

From Prep to Plate: Let’s Get Cooking This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe!

Alright, enough chit-chat! Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of cooking this amazing Chicken Lo Mein Recipe. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious bowl of lo mein in no time.

1. **Prep Your Ingredients: ** This is crucial for a smooth cooking process. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic and ginger, and slice all your vegetables. Measure out your sauce ingredients and have them ready to go.

2. **Cook the Noodles: ** Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook slightly when you toss them with the sauce. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

3. **Sear the Chicken: ** Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. **Sauté the Vegetables: ** Add the vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.

5. **Make the Sauce: ** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce), sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, and chicken broth.

6. **Combine Everything: ** Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce has thickened. Add the cooked chicken and noodles to the skillet and toss to coat.

7. **Garnish & Serve: ** Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Lo Mein Recipe!

Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Variations

Want to jazz up your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe? Here are some fun and flavorful variations to try:

• **Spicy Lo Mein:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• **Shrimp Lo Mein:** Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• **Tofu Lo Mein:** Replace the chicken with cubed tofu for a vegetarian option. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before cooking.
• **Peanut Lo Mein:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.

Conclusion: Your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Triumph Awaits

Congratulations, my friend! You’ve officially embarked on (and hopefully conquered!) the journey to creating the perfect Chicken Lo Mein Recipe. Armed with this recipe and my witty (if I do say so myself) guidance, you’re now equipped to whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own home. So go forth, noodle lovers, and create some culinary magic! And don’t forget to share your creations with me. Happy cooking!

Conclusion for Chicken Lo Mein Recipe :

This *chicken lo mein recipe* is a winner for a reason. It is quick, customizable, and utterly satisfying. From perfectly cooked noodles to tender chicken and crisp vegetables, every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking and spice level. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to impress. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a regular in your meal rotation. So, go ahead and whip up a batch and enjoy the delightful experience.

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FAQs :

Can I use different noodles for this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe sings with traditional lo mein noodles, feel free to get creative. Spaghetti or fettuccine can work in a pinch, though the texture will be a bit different. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or even zucchini noodles for a lighter, veggie-packed version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and make sure they’re cooked al dente – nobody wants mushy noodles! The most important thing is that you enjoy the dish, so don’t be afraid to experiment with other noodle types to find your perfect noodle match.

How can I make this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe spicier?

Feeling a little daring? Spice is the spice of life! A dash of red pepper flakes added to the sauce will give it a pleasant kick. Alternatively, you could incorporate a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or sriracha. If you want a more subtle heat, try adding some sliced fresh chilies during the stir-fry process. Just remember to taste as you go and adjust the amount to your liking. Too much spice can overshadow the other delicious flavors in your *chicken lo mein recipe*!

What other vegetables can I add to this Chicken Lo Mein?

The beauty of a good stir-fry is its versatility! Feel free to raid your fridge and toss in whatever veggies are calling your name. Broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers (any color!), snap peas, water chestnuts, or even some shredded cabbage would be fantastic additions. Mushrooms, especially shiitake or cremini, also add a wonderful earthy flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking times – add heartier vegetables like broccoli earlier on so they have time to soften, and add more delicate ones towards the end.

How can I store leftover Chicken Lo Mein?

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow the *chicken lo mein* to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you can microwave it, but for best results, stir-fry it in a pan with a little bit of oil or broth to prevent it from drying out. Adding a splash of soy sauce can also help to rehydrate the noodles. Just make sure it’s heated thoroughly before serving.