Chicken Lo Mein is a beloved Chinese-American cuisine that combines delicate chicken pieces with vibrant veggies in a flavorful stir-fry and served over a bed of soft lo mein noodles. The pleasant textures and rich aromas of this dish make it a classic on Chinese takeaway menus. The vegetables bring a burst of color and texture, while the umami flavor comes from the soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in the sauce.
Lo Mein has its roots in traditional Chinese cuisine, which include noodles in all its forms. “Lo Mein,” meaning “tossed noodles,” is different from “chow mein,” which usually involves frying the noodles. This dish has become a cherished comfort food in Chinese-American cuisine due to its adaptations that cater to different palates.
When you make Chicken Lo Mein at home with fresh, premium ingredients, you can savor the dish’s original flavors. The stir-frying method is essential to this recipe since it keeps the chicken soft and the veggies crunchy. Coat the noodles evenly with the sauce, which should have a savory undertone with a touch of sweetness, then mix everything together.
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 500 grams boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the Lo Mein:
- 200 grams lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger minced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 carrot julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2-3 green onions cut into 1-inch pieces
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Add the sliced chicken and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Cook the lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken slices and stir-fry until they are cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chicken broth.
Step 6: Combine and Cook
- Return the cooked chicken to the wok.
- Add the cooked noodles and pour the sauce over the top.
- Toss everything together until the chicken, vegetables, and noodles are well coated with the sauce.
- Add the green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Chicken Lo Mein!
Tips and Information
Tips and Information
- Noodles: If you can’t find lo mein noodles, spaghetti or other egg noodles can be used as a substitute.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a more tender and juicy texture.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or baby corn for added nutrition and variety.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Chicken Lo Mein would satisfy any fan of Chinese takeout or anyone seeking to make a favorite dish at home. This dish is quite adaptable; just add the veggies and protein of your choice to make it your own. Let’s get down to business and make this tasty and filling meal!