If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends savory chicken, tender noodles, and crisp veggies all tossed in a flavorful sauce, then you’re in for a treat with this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe. This recipe brings together simple ingredients that shine in harmony, creating a comforting yet exciting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a busy home cook or an adventurous foodie, this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is going to become your new go-to for delicious and satisfying dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the tender chicken breast to the vibrant stir-fry veggies and the rich combination of broths and seasonings that make the sauce irresistibly tasty.
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (just over 1 lb.): Provides lean, juicy protein that absorbs all the delicious sauce.
- Salt/Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil: Adds a slightly nutty flavor and high smoke point, perfect for stir-frying; you can substitute olive oil if needed.
- ¼ cup dry white wine: Lends a subtle acidity that brightens the sauce; optional but recommended.
- 2 ½ cups mixed stir-fry vegetables: A crunchy, colorful mix that enhances texture and nutrition; think snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli.
- 10 oz. lo mein noodles: The star noodles that soak up all the savory sauce juices perfectly.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth without overpowering the flavors.
- ¾ cup beef broth: Boosts the richness and umami of the sauce for that perfect balance.
- ¼ cup soy sauce: Provides the salty umami punch that is the hallmark of any good lo mein.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce gently, balancing out the saltiness (honey works well as a substitute).
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the sauce giving it that glossy, clingy quality.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses bold aroma and flavor that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: Adds a subtle heat kick; Frank’s or Sriracha both work beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Gives a nutty, fragrant finish essential for authentic flavor.
- ¼ tsp ground ginger: Warms up the dish with a hint of spice and brightness.
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like it extra spicy, a pinch brings gentle heat.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Chicken
Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into thin bite-sized strips and seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken in a single layer to ensure it sears evenly and cooks quickly. Stir-fry the chicken pieces until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Then set the chicken aside; this step locks in moisture and flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to boil and cook your lo mein noodles according to the package instructions—usually around 3 to 5 minutes until tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain the noodles and toss them lightly with a tiny drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Having perfectly cooked noodles ready makes the assembly go smoothly in the next steps.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables and Garlic
In the same skillet, add a bit more peanut oil if needed, then toss in your mixed stir-fry vegetables. Cook them for just a few minutes until they’re crisp-tender. Immediately after, add the minced garlic, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn but releases its enticing aroma. This combination gives the dish a fresh and vibrant layer of taste and texture.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry white wine, chicken broth, beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, hot sauce, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour this sauce mixture over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to a luscious glaze that coats every piece beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss in the drained lo mein noodles. Using tongs or two large spatulas, gently mix everything together so the sauce clings evenly to the chicken, noodles, and vegetables. Let it cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld, and then remove from heat. The end result is a silky, colorful Chicken Lo Mein Recipe that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Sometimes the little touches make all the difference. Sprinkle some sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or even chopped cilantro on top of your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe for freshness and an extra pop of color. These garnishes also elevate the dish’s texture and become the perfect finishing flair.
Side Dishes
Since Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is a complete meal on its own, sides are optional but can be a welcome addition. Consider serving with a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings to complement the flavors. A bowl of hot miso soup could also round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe in individual lettuce cups or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also plate it in a bowl garnished with crunchy peanuts and a drizzle of extra soy sauce or chili oil for an exciting flavor contrast that will impress your guests or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe leftovers refrigerate wonderfully. Place any uneaten portion in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles and vegetables tend to soak up the sauce more over time, making it even more flavorful after a day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the Chicken Lo Mein Recipe, it’s best to store the cooked chicken and vegetables separately from the noodles for optimal texture. Freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the frozen or refrigerated lo mein in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Stir frequently until heated through, taking care not to overcook the noodles so they don’t become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional lo mein noodles are ideal, you can substitute with spaghetti, udon, or even rice noodles. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure the noodles remain tender yet firm.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the chicken for firm tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, and replace chicken and beef broth with vegetable broth to keep the dish meat-free while maintaining rich flavor.
What vegetables work best in Chicken Lo Mein Recipe?
A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and mushrooms are classic choices. Feel free to use whatever fresh or frozen veggies you have on hand for convenience and variety.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Increase the amount of hot sauce or add extra red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. You might also try adding fresh chili slices for an extra punch.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The Chicken Lo Mein Recipe comes together pretty quickly, with about 15 minutes for prep and another 15 minutes for cooking—making it perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a bit of restaurant-quality magic right into your own kitchen. With its balanced mix of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly sauced noodles, it’s sure to become a staple in your home-cooked meal rotation. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and rewarding it is to make!
Print
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Delicious homemade Chicken Lo Mein featuring tender chicken breast, mixed stir-fry vegetables, and soft lo mein noodles, all tossed in a flavorful savory sauce with soy, garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat for the perfect quick Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (just over 1 lb.)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Cooking Oil and Liquids
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (plus more as needed, can substitute olive oil)
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup beef broth
Vegetables and Noodles
- 2 ½ cups mixed stir fry vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, snow peas, carrots, broccoli)
- 10 oz. lo mein noodles
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (can substitute honey)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Frank’s or Sriracha recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from skillet and slice thinly once cooled.
- Cook Noodles: In a large pot, cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
- Stir-fry Vegetables: In the same skillet or wok, add additional peanut oil as needed. Stir-fry the mixed vegetables over high heat until crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, minced garlic, hot sauce, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, and white wine until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add chicken broth and beef broth along with the sauce mixture. Cook and stir until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Noodles: Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet with the sauce, chicken, and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional soy sauce if needed. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Chicken Lo Mein!
Notes
- Dry white wine adds depth to the sauce but can be omitted or replaced with additional broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Use your favorite mixed stir fry vegetables; common options include bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas, and mushrooms.
- Lo mein noodles can be found fresh or dried; cook according to package instructions making sure they are not overcooked.
- Peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point and flavor but olive oil or vegetable oil can substitute.
- For less heat, omit hot sauce and red pepper flakes or adjust to taste.
- If you don’t have beef broth, use all chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.
