Easy Chicken Lo Mein

If you’re searching for a cozy, satisfying meal that comes together in no time, look no further than this Easy Chicken Lo Mein. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked lo mein noodles, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Easy Chicken Lo Mein is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that appeals to both kids and adults. The succulent chicken paired with the crunch of fresh vegetables creates an irresistible combination. Plus, the savory sauce brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is bound to impress. It’s not only simple to make but also customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.

Shopping List

• 8 ounces lo mein noodles
• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 8 ounces chicken breast (or boneless thigh meat)
• 1 tablespoon wok oil (or vegetable oil)
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• 8 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup sliced bell pepper
• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots (cut on the diagonal)
• 1/2 cup sliced white onion
• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a kick)

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot – for boiling the lo mein noodles.
• Wok or large skillet – for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.

Stepwise Method: Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the noodles are cooking, slice the chicken breast (or thigh meat) into thin strips. In a bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger. Add the chicken to the marinade and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of wok oil in your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same wok, add 3 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, carrots, and onions. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon of minced ginger, and 1 teaspoon of sriracha (if using). Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables.

Step 6: Add the Noodles

Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the wok, tossing everything together to ensure the noodles are well-coated with the sauce and combined with the chicken and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Easy Chicken Lo Mein immediately, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade deliciousness!

Customize for Your Needs

• Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein option.
• Add more vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha or fresh chili peppers.
• Make it gluten-free by using rice noodles and ensuring the sauces are gluten-free.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When preparing your Easy Chicken Lo Mein, keep the following points in mind to ensure a successful dish:

• Be careful not to overcook the noodles; they should be firm and slightly chewy.
• Ensure your wok or skillet is hot enough before adding the ingredients to get that delicious stir-fry flavor.
• Don’t skip rinsing the noodles after cooking; this prevents them from sticking together.
• Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preference; a little more soy sauce or sugar can enhance the flavor.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Easy Chicken Lo Mein can be made in larger batches and stored for later. To freeze:

• Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Your Top Questions

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with rice noodles, udon, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this Easy Chicken Lo Mein vegetarian, skip the chicken and replace it with tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables for added flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce for a similar sweetness or use a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of sugar for a simpler alternative.

How long does this dish last in the fridge?

Easy Chicken Lo Mein can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

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• Minimalist Baker – For simple, plant-based recipes.

Wrap-Up

With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, Easy Chicken Lo Mein is a go-to meal for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something comforting and delicious. It’s quick to prepare, customizable to your taste, and makes for delightful leftovers. Now that you have all the steps laid out, it’s time to whip up this tasty dish in your kitchen. Enjoy every savory bite!