Chicken Mein has been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember, a dish that instantly brings warmth and comfort. I vividly recall my dad making his famous version every Friday night; the aroma of garlic and ginger would fill our kitchen, signaling the start of the weekend. It was always a race to the table to get the first bite of those tender noodles and savory chicken. This particular Chicken Lo Mein recipe captures that same nostalgic feeling, delivering a burst of sweet and savory flavors that truly satisfies. It’s a simple weeknight meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Chinese restaurant, making it the best easy ground turkey dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Lo Mein
I promise you, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a household favorite. This isn’t just another stir-fry; it’s a culinary experience that hits all the right notes:
- Incredible Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami makes every bite of this Easy chicken Lo Mein truly irresistible.
- Lightning Fast: From prep to plate, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Takeout: You get all the comfort of your favorite Chinese takeout without the excess oils and sodium, allowing for a healthier meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients, this dish is far more economical than ordering delivery, stretching your dollar further.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love these flavorful noodles and tender chicken, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
- Customizable: Easily swap vegetables or add different proteins to make this Easy chicken Lo Mein uniquely yours.
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Lo Mein
To make this incredible Homemade Chicken Lo Mein, you’ll need a few key Chicken Lo Mein ingredients. I’ve found that using fresh, quality components makes all the difference in achieving that authentic taste.
- 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced – I always aim for even slices so it cooks quickly and uniformly.
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles – These are the heart of our dish; make sure to get authentic lo mein for the best texture.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce – A good quality soy sauce is essential for the base of our savory sauce.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce – This adds a beautiful umami depth and a touch of sweetness to the Chicken Mein.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Just a drizzle at the end brings a wonderful nutty aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – Grated ginger adds warmth and a zesty kick to the stir-fry.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Adds color, sweetness, and a lovely crunch.
- 1 cup snap peas – For a vibrant green and crisp texture.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned – A touch of sweetness and another pop of color.
- 2 green onions, chopped – Used for garnish and a mild oniony flavor.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch – This creates a silky coating for the chicken and thickens the sauce slightly.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein
Making your own Chicken Lo Mein at home is surprisingly simple, and I promise, the results are incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps for a dish that rivals your favorite takeout!
- Step 1: Prepare your ingredients. Start by thinly slicing your chicken breast and dicing all your vegetables. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of water to create your savory sauce.
- Step 2: Marinate the chicken. In a separate bowl, toss the sliced chicken with a tablespoon of soy sauce, the cornstarch, and a tiny bit of sesame oil. Let this sit for about 10-15 minutes while you get your other components ready. This step helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a lovely coating.
- Step 3: Cook the noodles. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add your lo mein noodles and cook them according to the package directions until they are just tender, or al dente. I always recommend slightly undercooking them, as they will finish cooking in the stir-fry. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking; this also stops the cooking process. Set these Simple chicken Lo Mein noodles aside.
- Step 4: Cook the chicken. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, flipping occasionally until it’s beautifully browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Step 5: Stir-fry the vegetables. If needed, add another splash of vegetable oil to the same pan. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger first, letting them cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the thinly sliced red bell pepper, snap peas, and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, just until the vegetables are crisp-tender and vibrant. You want them to still have a nice bite!
- Step 6: Combine and sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add the prepared Simple chicken Lo Mein noodles. Pour your pre-mixed sauce over everything. Using tongs or chopsticks, toss all the ingredients together vigorously, ensuring every strand of noodle and piece of chicken and vegetable is coated in the glossy, savory sauce. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Step 7: Garnish and serve. Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the Chicken Lo Mein, giving it one final gentle toss. Serve immediately while it’s hot and fragrant. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright finish.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Lo Mein
I’ve made my fair share of Chicken Lo Mein over the years, and I’ve picked up a few tricks that truly elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. These pro tips will help you achieve that perfect restaurant-quality flavor and texture right in your own kitchen.
- Always prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves fast, and you don’t want to be chopping vegetables while the wok is screaming hot.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan. If you’re making a large batch, cook the chicken and vegetables in smaller portions to ensure they stir-fry rather than steam.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic. The vibrant, pungent flavors are essential for an authentic taste in your Chicken Mein.
- Under-cook your noodles slightly. They’ll finish cooking in the sauce and absorb all those delicious flavors without becoming mushy.
- Taste and adjust your sauce. Everyone’s preference for sweet, salty, or savory is different, so don’t be afraid to tweak it a little.
What’s the secret to perfect Restaurant-style Chicken Lo Mein?
The real secret lies in the balance of the sauce and the high heat of the stir-fry. A perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and umami sauce, combined with quickly cooked ingredients in a very hot wok, creates that signature restaurant flavor. This approach makes it the Best chicken Lo Mein recipe for home cooks.
Can I make Quick chicken Lo Mein dish ahead of time?
You can definitely prep components of this Quick chicken Lo Mein dish ahead of time! Slice your chicken and vegetables, and mix your sauce up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Cook the noodles and stir-fry everything just before serving for the freshest taste.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken stir-fried noodles recipe?
To avoid common mistakes with any Chicken stir-fried noodles recipe, don’t overcook your noodles or your vegetables; they should both retain a slight bite. Also, ensure your pan is hot enough to prevent steaming, and don’t skip the cornstarch on the chicken, as it helps tenderize and creates a lovely sauce coating.
Best Ways to Serve Healthy Chicken Lo Mein
Once you’ve whipped up this fantastic Chicken Mein, the serving possibilities are endless. I love to enjoy it fresh off the wok, steam still rising, as a complete meal on its own. The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory noodles make for a satisfying dish.
However, if you’re looking to elevate your meal or serve a larger crowd, consider pairing your Healthy Chicken Lo Mein with a few complementary sides. I often serve it alongside some steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt, or a light cucumber salad with a rice vinegar dressing. For a more substantial feast, a simple bowl of hot and sour soup or some crispy spring rolls would be a perfect addition to this delicious Asian chicken noodle stir-fry. It’s all about creating a balanced and delightful dining experience.
Nutrition Facts for Chicken Mein
I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of your favorite dishes, and this homemade Chicken Mein is no exception. Here’s an estimated look at the nutrition per serving (this recipe yields 4 servings):
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use for your Chicken Mein.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Lo Mein
One of the best things about making Homemade Chicken Lo Mein is that it often makes fantastic leftovers. Proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and delicious for future meals. Once your Chicken Mein has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. I usually divide it into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.
You can store the cooked Chicken Lo Mein in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully! Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. To reheat, I prefer using a microwave for quick meals or a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness. This method helps maintain the noodles’ texture and keeps your Homemade Chicken Lo Mein tasting great.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Lo Mein
What is chicken Lo Mein and how is it different from Chow Mein?
Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American dish featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and soft, chewy egg noodles tossed in a savory sauce. The main difference between Chicken Lo Mein and Chow Mein lies in how the noodles are prepared. For Lo Mein, the noodles are boiled until tender and then tossed with the other ingredients and sauce, creating a soft, saucy dish. Chow Mein, on the other hand, typically involves frying the noodles until they are crispy, often served underneath the stir-fried components.
Can I use different types of noodles for this Chicken Mein recipe?
While traditional Chicken Lo Mein uses specific egg noodles, you can certainly experiment with other types if you prefer. Fresh or dried spaghetti, linguine, or even ramen noodles can be good substitutes in a pinch. Just make sure to cook them according to their package directions until al dente, and then proceed with the recipe. The key is to have a noodle that can absorb the delicious sauce.
How can I make my Chicken Lo Mein spicier?
Adding a kick to your Chicken Lo Mein is easy! I often like to include a teaspoon or two of chili garlic sauce or sriracha directly into the sauce mixture. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger when stir-frying, or top your finished dish with a drizzle of hot chili oil. Adjust the amount to your personal spice preference.
Is it possible to add more vegetables to this Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely! This Chicken Lo Mein recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to vegetables. Feel free to incorporate your favorites like broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, baby corn, bok choy, or cabbage. Just be mindful not to overcrowd your pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. Add denser vegetables earlier in the stir-frying process to ensure they cook through properly.
Variations of Chicken Lo Mein You Can Try
While my classic Chicken Lo Mein recipe is a guaranteed hit, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Once you master the basic technique, you can easily experiment with different variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. I often find myself trying new combinations, and these are some of my favorite ways to switch things up without sacrificing that delicious flavor.
- Vegetarian Lo Mein: Easily transform this into a meat-free meal by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables like shiitake mushrooms, baby corn, water chestnuts, or tofu. You can also swap the oyster sauce for a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative.
- Spicy Szechuan Style: For those who love a kick, introduce some dried Szechuan peppercorns and chili flakes during the stir-frying process. A dash of chili oil in the sauce will also elevate the heat, creating a bold, Authentic chicken Lo Mein experience with a fiery twist.
- Shrimp or Beef Lo Mein: Swap the chicken for thinly sliced beef or succulent shrimp. Cook them similarly to the chicken, ensuring not to overcook the shrimp. This is a fantastic way to enjoy different protein profiles within the same delicious noodle base.
- Gluten-Free Lo Mein: Make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensuring your lo mein noodles are gluten-free. This allows everyone to enjoy a delicious bowl of Chicken Mein without dietary concerns.
Amazing Chicken Mein: A 30-Minute Dinner Fix
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Easy Chicken Lo Mein recipe offers a flavorful, fast, and satisfying meal. It features tender chicken, stir-fried vegetables, and chewy noodles tossed in a glossy, savory sauce. This dish is quicker than ordering takeout, cooks in one pan, and is easily customizable. It is a perfect mix of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, providing restaurant-quality results in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Start by slicing your chicken, prepping your vegetables, and mixing the sauce. Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of water in a bowl to make the sauce.
- Toss the chicken slices with a little soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Boil your lo mein noodles according to package directions until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until browned and cooked through—about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add another splash of oil if needed. Toss in garlic and ginger first, then add bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
- Return the chicken to the pan, then add the cooked noodles. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together using tongs or chopsticks. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top, give it one last toss, and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Notes
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the most flavor impact in your chicken lo mein.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; stir-fry in batches if necessary for the best results.
- Slightly undercook your lo mein noodles so they do not turn mushy when stir-fried with the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg