There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Chicken Lo Mein. It’s that satisfying combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and those delightful noodles that always feels like a hug in a dish. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, you’re juggling work, family, and a list of endless to-dos, but you crave something a little extraordinary for dinner. This recipe steps in to save the day, ready in about 30 minutes but bursting with flavor that lets you escape into a moment of culinary bliss.
Why this dish deserves a place on your table
If you’re looking for a meal that checks all the boxes—quick, delicious, and loved by both kids and adults—this Chicken Lo Mein is your golden ticket. It’s not just another noodle dish; each forkful brings a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet, all enveloped in that umami-rich soy sauce. Plus, making it at home allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your family’s taste.
"This Chicken Lo Mein has quickly become a family staple! It’s so easy to whip up, and my kids absolutely love it. I can even sneak in more veggies while they’re none the wiser!"
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a last-minute gathering of friends, this dish shines in its simplicity and versatility.
How this recipe comes together
Preparing Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful journey that comes together in just a few straightforward steps. Start by gathering your ingredients—it’s always a good idea to have everything prepped and ready to go. Then, cook those lo mein noodles exactly to package instructions for that perfect chewy texture. While the noodles are cooking, you’ll sauté chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown, creating a savory base for the vibrant vegetables that follow.
When you add everything together, magic happens! Each ingredient is coated in that luscious soy sauce, and the aromas fill your kitchen, making your mouth water just thinking about that first bite.
What you’ll need
Let’s get into the essentials for this delicious Chicken Lo Mein:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves fresh minced garlic
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have; snow peas or broccoli are fantastic additions, and they add a nice crunch!
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Aim for al dente; you’ll want them to hold up during the stir-fry. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sauté until it’s golden brown and thoroughly cooked, roughly 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, toss in your sliced bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry them until they’re tender yet still slightly crisp—about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Now, introduce the lo mein noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Toss everything together until each ingredient is well-coated and heated through.
- Serve hot with extra soy sauce on the side if you love that added kick!
How to enjoy your Chicken Lo Mein
To make your Chicken Lo Mein really pop, consider serving it in deep bowls, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds for that extra flair. Pair it with crispy spring rolls or a side of steamed dumplings for a feast that feels like dining out, right in your own home.
Keeping your leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a rarity because it’s that good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave on low power, adding a splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out. This dish also freezes beautifully, so you can portion it out and have a homemade meal on hand for those extra busy days.
Tips for success
- Use fresh noodles if you can: They really elevate the dish and cook quicker than dried ones.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of chicken or vegetables, work in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to seasoning. Don’t hesitate to add more soy sauce or a dash of chili sauce if you prefer heat.
Creative twists on a classic
Feeling adventurous? This dish is quite forgiving and allows for plenty of variations. Try adding cooked shrimp instead of chicken, or make it vegetarian by using tofu and a wider array of vegetables. You could even throw in a splash of oyster sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prep the vegetables and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, then toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.
What kind of noodles can I use?
Lo Mein noodles are traditional, but you can also substitute with egg noodles, or even whole wheat noodles for a healthier twist.
With its simplicity and flavor, Chicken Lo Mein is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. So, put on some comfy clothes, get your skillet ready, and let’s bring a little taste of takeout home!
Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Aim for al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, roughly 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, toss in your sliced bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry until tender yet still slightly crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Add the lo mein noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Toss everything together until well-coated and heated through.
- Serve hot with extra soy sauce on the side, if desired.