Easy Chicken Lo Mein Flavorful and Quick Recipe

November 21, 2025March 9, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz lo mein noodles

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 1 cup bell peppers, julienned

– 1 cup snap peas or snow peas

– 1/2 cup carrots, julienned

– 3 green onions, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Important Notes on Ingredients

When choosing vegetables, look for fresh and crisp options. Bright colors mean good flavor. For bell peppers, mix red, yellow, and green for a colorful dish. You can swap snap peas with snow peas if you prefer. If you do not have lo mein noodles, use spaghetti or rice noodles.

For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari. You can skip oyster sauce or use a vegan version. If you are out of sesame oil, try using vegetable oil. These swaps will still keep your dish tasty and fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Noodles

1. Cooking the lo mein noodles: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the lo mein noodles and cook them until they are tender, following the package instructions. This usually takes about 4 to 6 minutes.

2. Preventing sticking with sesame oil: Once cooked, drain the noodles. To keep them from sticking together, toss them with a little sesame oil. This step adds flavor and helps them stay separate. Set the noodles aside for later.

Marinating the Chicken

1. How to marinate properly: In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well-coated in the sauce.

2. Timing for marination: Let the chicken marinate for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak into the meat, making it tasty and juicy.

Cooking Process

1. Stir-frying the chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.

2. Cooking the vegetables: In the same skillet, add more sesame oil if needed. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are bright and tender but still crisp.

3. Combining everything: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked lo mein noodles and gently toss everything together. Ensure the chicken and noodles are well-coated with the sauce, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Final Touches

1. Adding green onions: Just before serving, stir in the chopped green onions. This gives a fresh crunch to the dish.

2. Adjusting seasoning: Taste your dish and add more salt or pepper if needed. This step is key to making your Easy Chicken Lo Mein just right for your palate.

Tips & Tricks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking the noodles: It’s easy to cook noodles too long. Follow the package time carefully. Noodles should be al dente, not mushy. This keeps them from clumping in the stir-fry.

– Ignoring the marination time: Marinating chicken is key. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up flavors. Skipping this step will make your meal taste bland.

Enhancing Flavor

– Suggestions for additional seasonings: You can add a splash of rice vinegar or chili oil for a twist. These bring a bright and spicy kick. You can also try a dash of five-spice powder for a deeper flavor.

– How to achieve the best stir-fry texture: Use high heat and a good pan. A wok is ideal but any large skillet works. Keep your ingredients moving to avoid burning. This method helps everything cook evenly and stay crisp.

Serving Suggestions

– Recommended side dishes: Serve with spring rolls or dumplings for a full meal. A side of steamed broccoli or a simple salad also pairs well. These sides add color and balance to your plate.

– Best ways to serve and present: Use a large platter for a family-style meal. For individual servings, use bowls to show off the colorful veggies. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nice touch and crunch.

Variations

Vegetable Variations

You can switch up the veggies in your Chicken Lo Mein. Here are some fun ideas:

– Broccoli florets

– Baby corn

– Mushrooms

– Zucchini strips

Using seasonal vegetables makes your dish fresh. In summer, add tomatoes or bell peppers. In winter, use root veggies like carrots or squash. This keeps your meal exciting and healthy.

Protein Substitutes

Want to try something different? You can use shrimp, tofu, or beef. Here’s how:

– Shrimp: Cook them for just 3-4 minutes until pink.

– Tofu: Press it to remove extra water, then cube it. Cook until golden brown.

– Beef: Thinly slice flank steak and stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes.

Cooking times vary, so pay attention. Make sure each protein is cooked through for safe eating.

Adjusting Spice Levels

Do you like heat? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce. Start with a small amount to avoid overpowering the dish. If you prefer milder flavors, try these options:

– Use less soy sauce.

– Add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.

These changes make your Chicken Lo Mein just right for your taste. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep Chicken Lo Mein fresh, store it in airtight containers. This helps avoid moisture loss. Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing. Label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it.

Use glass or sturdy plastic containers for best results. They help maintain the flavor and texture.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat Chicken Lo Mein, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help it steam. Stir often to prevent sticking. Heat until it’s warm throughout.

Avoid the microwave if you can. It can make the noodles soggy.

Freezing Guidelines

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Lo Mein! Just be sure to cool it first. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out extra air to prevent freezer burn.

To thaw, place the container in the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, use the microwave on defrost. Once thawed, reheat using the skillet method for the best texture.

FAQs

What can I substitute for lo mein noodles?

If you can’t find lo mein noodles, you can use other types of noodles. Good options include spaghetti, egg noodles, or rice noodles. These substitutes work well in this dish. Just cook them according to the package instructions. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.

How do I make Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free?

To make Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free, swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can also choose rice noodles instead of lo mein noodles. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worries.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Lo Mein ahead of time. Cook the noodles and chicken, then store them separately. Keep the vegetables fresh until you are ready to cook. When you’re set to eat, just stir-fry everything together. It takes only a few minutes to heat up.

What is the best type of skillet or wok to use?

A large non-stick skillet or a wok works best for this dish. A non-stick surface helps prevent sticking and allows for easy tossing. If you have a carbon steel wok, it can provide great heat distribution. Make sure the pan is hot before adding ingredients for the best stir-fry.

How long does Chicken Lo Mein last in the refrigerator?

Chicken Lo Mein can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave. Just be careful not to overcook it during reheating.

You can make a simple yet tasty Chicken Lo Mein with quality ingredients and easy steps. By using fresh veggies and proper cooking techniques, you ensure great flavor. Remember to avoid common mistakes, like overcooking the noodles. Variations let you adjust the meal to your liking, making it fun to try new things. Store leftovers correctly to enjoy later. Overall, you have the tools to create a delicious meal that can impress anyone. Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t hesitate to experimen