If you have ever craved a comforting yet vibrant noodle dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken pieces and crisp vegetables perfectly coated in a glossy, savory sauce, all tossed with chewy lo mein noodles that soak up every bit of flavor. This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe strikes the perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an irresistible meal any day of the week. The simplicity of fresh ingredients coming together in just under 40 minutes makes it a fantastic go-to recipe whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the joy of cooking this dish. Each element in this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe adds something important — from the juicy chicken breasts offering hearty protein to the bright bell peppers and crisp carrots delivering color and crunch. The soy sauce and sesame oil bring that wonderful umami richness and aroma, while the fresh garlic wakes up every bite. Here’s what you’ll need to make it shine:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried): The chewy noodles are the star carbohydrate, soaking up all the delicious sauce and tying the dish together.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of vibrant red color for visual appeal.
- 1 yellow bell pepper: Brings a sunny brightness and subtle crunch that balances out the dish.
- 2 carrots (thinly sliced): Their natural sweetness and crisp texture contrast nicely with the noodles and tender chicken.
- 2 green onions (chopped): Offering a fresh, mild onion flavor that lifts the whole dish.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: This is essential for that perfect salty, savory kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds an irresistible nutty aroma and depth to the sauce.
- 3 cloves fresh minced garlic: Garlic delivers a punch of warm, fragrant flavor that’s simply indispensable here.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients and Cook Noodles
Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Cooking the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente ensures they’ll be perfectly tender yet still have a satisfying chew. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside to keep the texture just right for tossing later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add your cooking oil for a light sizzle. Add the chicken breasts cut into strips or bite-sized pieces and cook until they reach a golden brown color and are fully cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan to make room for the vegetables.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Vegetables
In the same pan with those lovely chicken drippings, toss in the sliced bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Stir-frying them for 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp helps maintain a vibrant color and satisfying crunch that livens up the dish perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Noodles, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the al dente lo mein noodles. Now pour in the low-sodium soy sauce, drizzle the sesame oil, and sprinkle the freshly minced garlic. Toss everything together carefully but thoroughly, making sure every noodle is deliciously coated and savory goodness is evenly distributed. This step is where all the flavors truly marry.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Serve your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe piping hot and fresh from the pan. Offering extra soy sauce on the side allows each person to customize their seasoning. This dish is best enjoyed immediately when the noodles are tender yet springy and the vegetables retain their crunch and brightness.
How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish further, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro on top. A few thinly sliced red chilies can add a gentle heat if you like a little kick. These garnishes bring added texture, color, and an extra layer of flavor sophistication.
Side Dishes
While the Chicken Lo Mein Recipe stands well on its own as a satisfying meal, pairing it with a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad or steamed dumplings can round out the dining experience. A bowl of hot and sour soup or miso soup complements the flavors with warm, comforting broth without overpowering the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just bring a bit of fun to your dinner table, consider serving your Chicken Lo Mein in individual lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld twist. You can also plate it alongside a vibrant stir-fried vegetable medley or even top it with a sunny-side-up egg for extra richness and a splash of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The key is to cool the dish quickly before refrigerating to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess in the noodles.
Freezing
While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftover Chicken Lo Mein if needed. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It should keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture as much as possible.
Reheating
To reheat, toss the Chicken Lo Mein gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or additional soy sauce to revive moisture. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the noodles and make the vegetables lose their crispness. Stir until piping hot and enjoy again like it was freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of chicken in this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe?
Absolutely! Pork, beef, shrimp, or even tofu make delicious alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through and tender.
What type of noodles is best for lo mein?
Fresh lo mein noodles are ideal for their texture but dried lo mein or egg noodles work well too. The important thing is to cook them until just al dente to avoid mushy noodles after stir-frying.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply swap the chicken for tofu or a medley of mushrooms and use vegetable broth or water instead of any meat-based sauces. Adding extra veggies will keep it hearty and flavorful.
Is sesame oil necessary for the recipe?
Sesame oil is key for the authentic, nutty aroma it delivers, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with another neutral oil. Just know it won’t have quite the same distinctive flavor.
Can I prepare Chicken Lo Mein Recipe in advance for a party?
Yes! Prepare all components ahead, but toss the noodles with sauce and vegetables right before serving to keep everything fresh and maintain great texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so deeply satisfying about a well-made Chicken Lo Mein Recipe—it’s colorful, fragrant, and comforting all at once. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s straightforward enough for weeknights but impressive enough for company. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic that keeps everyone coming back for seconds and thirds!
Print
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chicken Lo Mein recipe offers a delicious and quick stir-fry meal combining tender chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked lo mein noodles tossed in a flavorful soy and sesame sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and packed with vibrant colors and textures.
Ingredients
Protein
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Noodles
- Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried, quantity as needed for 4 servings)
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
Sauce & Seasoning
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil and then sauté the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, which typically takes about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender yet crisp, about 3-4 minutes, to preserve their texture and color.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked lo mein noodles, low-sodium soy sauce, and minced garlic. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and heat through, ensuring the noodles and chicken absorb the flavorful sauce.
- Serve: Serve the chicken lo mein hot. Optionally, provide extra soy sauce on the side for added saltiness or flavor according to personal preference.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes or a teaspoon of Sriracha sauce when tossing the noodles.
- You can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for variations.
- If using dried noodles, follow package instructions carefully to avoid overcooking and ensure the right texture.
- Low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt level, but adjust according to taste.
- Adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving can enhance flavor and texture.
