If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, Chicken Lo Mein is the answer. This classic Chinese dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and chewy noodles, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s not only delicious but also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this easy recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of China!
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 400 calories, 30g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. This is based on standard ingredient quantities used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas to the skillet; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil; stir to combine.
- Add the cooked lo mein noodles and toss everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti or rice noodles for a similar texture. For a healthier option, consider using whole grain or vegetable noodles. Adjust the vegetables based on your preference; broccoli or bok choy work well too.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Lo Mein pairs beautifully with spring rolls, dumplings, or a fresh side salad. A light soy sauce or chili garlic sauce can enhance the flavor when served.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot or stir-fry in a skillet. While it can be frozen, the texture of the noodles may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
- Not preheating the pan can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using too much sauce can make the dish soggy.
- Skipping the marinating step for chicken reduces flavor.
- Not chopping vegetables uniformly can affect cooking time.
- Using cold chicken can lead to uneven heating.
- Not tasting your dish before serving can lead to bland flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Use high heat for a better stir-fry texture.
- Consider adding some chili flakes for extra heat.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
- Experiment with proteins like shrimp or tofu for variety.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu, depending on your preference. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly for each protein.
Is Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free?
Traditional lo mein noodles are made from wheat and are not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free noodles made from rice or other grains as a substitute.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the dish when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Adding fresh ginger, scallions, or a splash of rice vinegar can elevate the flavors of your Chicken Lo Mein. Experiment with these additions for a unique twist.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken should be no longer pink in the center and should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory noodles. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows for customization to suit your taste. Enjoy this delicious meal any day of the week!
Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup carrots julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas to the skillet; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil; stir to combine.
- Add the cooked lo mein noodles and toss everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
