Easy Chicken Lo Mein Quick and Flavorful Dinner Recipe

December 22, 2025May 20, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 oz lo mein noodles

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)

Sauces and Oils

– ¼ cup soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Seasoning and Garnishes

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

– 3 green onions, chopped

– Sesame seeds for garnish

When making Easy Chicken Lo Mein, you need good ingredients. Start with lo mein noodles. They are soft and chewy, perfect for this dish. Next is chicken. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. You can slice them thin for quick cooking.

Mixed vegetables add color and crunch. I enjoy bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Feel free to swap in your favorites.

Now, let’s talk about the sauces and oils. Soy sauce is key for flavor. It adds saltiness and depth. If you want more flavor, add oyster sauce. It’s optional but tasty. Finally, sesame oil gives a nutty aroma that makes the dish special.

For seasoning, garlic and ginger are must-haves. They bring warmth and zest. Don’t forget the green onions. They add freshness when you mix them in at the end. Top it off with sesame seeds for a nice crunch. These ingredients come together to create a quick and flavorful meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt helps enhance the flavor of the noodles. Once boiling, add the lo mein noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them al dente, so they stay firm. After cooking, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside.

Preparing the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on the side.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Now, with the same skillet still hot, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the mixed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them tender yet still crisp. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir for another minute. This releases their lovely aroma.

Combining All Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained lo mein noodles. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Toss all the ingredients together for about 2 to 3 minutes. Make sure everything is well combined and heated through.

Garnishing and Serving

Just before serving, fold in the chopped green onions. This adds a nice freshness to the dish. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This gives your chicken lo mein a delightful crunch and a pretty visual appeal. For presentation, serve it in deep bowls or plates. Make sure the colorful mix of noodles and vegetables shines through!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Strategies

– How to achieve perfect stir-fried chicken: Always use high heat. Thinly slice the chicken for quick cooking. Season with salt and pepper before cooking. Stir frequently to get a nice golden color. Remove it before it overcooks to keep it juicy.

– Best practices for noodle texture: Cook lo mein noodles just until al dente. Follow package instructions closely. Drain them right away and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking and prevents clumping. Toss them in a bit of oil to keep them separate.

Flavor Enhancements

– Suggestions for additional seasonings: Add crushed red pepper for some heat. A dash of five-spice powder can boost flavor. Try a splash of rice vinegar for tanginess. Fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten your dish.

– Ways to customize with different sauces: Swap soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option. Use hoisin sauce for sweetness. A mix of chili paste can give you a spicy kick. Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite flavor profile.

Presentation Advice

– Plating tips for visual appeal: Use deep bowls to showcase the colorful mix of noodles and veggies. Arrange the chicken neatly on top for a layered look. Make sure the colors pop for a beautiful presentation.

– Garnishing ideas to enhance aesthetics: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for crunch. Add extra chopped green onions for brightness. A few sprigs of fresh herbs can make the dish look fresh and inviting.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can easily change the protein in your lo mein. Shrimp or tofu work great here.

– Using shrimp: Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice texture. Just sauté it until pink.

– Substituting with tofu: Tofu is a good choice for a plant-based meal. Use firm tofu and stir-fry until golden.

You can also swap chicken for beef or pork. Thinly slice either meat and cook it the same way.

Vegetable Substitutes

Mixing in different vegetables can make your lo mein exciting. Seasonal veggies add color and flavor.

– Seasonal vegetables: Try zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli. They fit well into this dish.

– Recommendations for leafy greens: Spinach or bok choy are excellent choices. Add them towards the end for a nice crunch.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need gluten-free options, it’s easy to modify this recipe.

– Alternatives for lo mein noodles: Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. They both work well for this dish.

– Gluten-free sauce options: Look for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. They provide great flavor without gluten.

These variations let you tailor the dish to your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy exploring new flavors!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, let your chicken lo mein cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers for best results.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, the stove works best. Heat a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to keep it moist. Stir often to prevent sticking. If you use a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. This helps avoid sogginess. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze chicken lo mein for up to three months. First, let it cool completely. Then, use freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I make chicken lo mein ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare parts of chicken lo mein ahead of time. Cook the noodles and store them in the fridge. You can also slice the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. This way, you save time when you’re ready to cook. Just remember to store everything in airtight containers. This keeps them fresh and tasty.

What type of noodles can I use?

For chicken lo mein, lo mein noodles are the best choice. They are soft and chewy, perfect for stir-frying. You can also use egg noodles or even rice noodles if needed. Just make sure to cook them al dente. This helps them hold up well in the stir-fry.

Is chicken lo mein healthy?

Chicken lo mein can be a healthy dish. It has lean protein from chicken and vitamins from mixed vegetables. You can control the amount of sauce you use, which helps reduce sodium. If you want a lighter version, use less oil and add more veggies. This way, you keep it nutritious and delicious.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for chicken lo mein. They are convenient and quick to use. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. This helps them cook evenly. Fresh vegetables are great, but frozen ones are just fine, too. They can save you time and effort in the kitchen.

In this post, we explored how to make delicious chicken lo mein. We covered the main ingredients, from lo mein noodles to mixed veggies. We provided step-by-step instructions for cooking each part and shared useful tips for better flavor and presentation. You can easily customize this dish with different proteins or veggies. Remember, storing and reheating properly keeps your meal fresh. With these insights, you can enjoy a tasty, homemade chicken lo mein any day of the week. Happy cookin