Sesame Chicken Lo Mein

There’s something truly comforting about a plate of Sesame Chicken Lo Mein. It’s the perfect harmony of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and chewy noodles all tossed in a luscious sesame-soy sauce. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress friends, this recipe fits the bill every time. The best part? It’s simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to keep food lovers coming back for more.

Why It’s My Go-To

I reach for this Sesame Chicken Lo Mein recipe whenever I want a meal that’s fast, filling, and packed with nutrients. The chicken breast cooks quickly and stays juicy, while the fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch and a boost of color. Sesame oil and seeds bring that irresistible nutty aroma that makes this dish so memorable. Plus, the balance of sweet honey and salty soy sauce creates a sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of noodle.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile — perfect for adapting with whatever you have in the fridge. From swapping broccoli for snap peas to adding mushrooms or baby corn, the veggie options are endless. And because it all comes together in about 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

What Goes In

• 8 oz lo mein noodles – soft and chewy for the perfect base
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced – lean, tender protein
• 2 tbsp sesame oil – fragrant and nutty, key for flavor
• 1 cup broccoli florets – adds crunch and color
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced – sweetness and vibrancy
• 1 cup carrots, julienned – crisp texture and natural sweetness
• 3 green onions, sliced – fresh bite and garnish
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic foundation
• 1 inch ginger, grated – zesty warmth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – umami-rich seasoning
• 1 tbsp honey – subtle sweetness to balance
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds – for toasty crunch on top
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning

Gear Checklist

• Large pot – to boil the noodles
• Large skillet or wok – for stir-frying the chicken and veggies
• Sharp knife – to slice chicken and vegetables evenly
• Grater – for fresh ginger
• Mixing bowls – for sauce and prepped ingredients
• Spatula or tongs – to toss everything together

Sesame Chicken Lo Mein, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions, usually around 4-6 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep Your Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple sauce perfectly balances sweet and savory notes that make the dish sing.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in the garlic, grated ginger, broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the veggies. Add the drained noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Toss vigorously to combine and heat through, making sure every noodle is coated with that luscious sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot, and enjoy the rich layers of flavor in every bite.

No-Store Runs Needed

• You likely already have soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger in your pantry.
• Chicken breast and fresh veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots are common fridge staples.
• Lo mein noodles can be swapped with spaghetti or rice noodles if needed.
• Sesame oil and seeds add a special touch but can be replaced with olive oil and toasted sunflower seeds in a pinch.

Troubles You Can Avoid

• Overcooking the noodles: Be sure to cook lo mein noodles just until tender. Overcooked noodles turn mushy and won’t hold the sauce well.
• Dry chicken: Slice chicken breast thinly and cook on medium-high heat quickly to retain juiciness.
• Soggy veggies: Stir-fry veggies just until tender-crisp to keep their texture and color vibrant.
• Too salty or sweet sauce: Start with the measured soy sauce and honey amounts, then adjust to your taste after mixing.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Sesame Chicken Lo Mein is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until hot, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if the noodles seem dry. For best texture, avoid reheating multiple times.

If you want to prep ahead, cook the chicken and vegetables separately from the noodles and sauce, then combine everything when ready to serve. This keeps the noodles from getting mushy during storage.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different type of noodle for Sesame Chicken Lo Mein?

Absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional and have a great texture, you can substitute with spaghetti, rice noodles, or even ramen noodles. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegan-friendly version. For a delicious plant-based alternative, check out these Crispy Sesame Ginger Tofu Bowls for inspiration.

What can I serve alongside Sesame Chicken Lo Mein?

A light, refreshing Asian Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with this dish. You can also serve steamed dumplings or hot and sour soup for a fuller meal.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil when tossing the noodles. Fresh sliced chili peppers also work well for an extra kick without overpowering the flavors.

Try These Next

• Instant Pot General Tsos Chicken – a tangy and spicy chicken favorite made easy.
• Asian Chicken Salad – fresh, crunchy, and perfect for lighter meals.
• Crispy Sesame Ginger Tofu Bowls – a plant-based meal packed with flavor.

Hungry for More?

If you love the comforting flavors of this Sesame Chicken Lo Mein, exploring other Asian-inspired dishes is sure to keep your taste buds happy. The balance of sweet, savory, and nutty elements in this recipe is a great base for experimenting with different proteins and vegetables. Whether you’re craving noodles, bowls, or salads, there’s always a delicious option waiting to be discovered. This recipe is a reminder that quick, wholesome, and flavorful meals can be achieved without fuss — and with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Enjoy the satisfying textures, bold flavors, and the little crunch of toasted sesame seeds that make this dish a standout weeknight winner.

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