Chicken Lo Mein

I remember the first time I made Chicken Lo Mein for my family. It was one of those busy weeknights when everyone craved comfort food, and I wanted to whip up something quick but still packed with flavor. As I stirred the noodles and watched the vibrant colors of the vegetables come together, it took me back to my childhood, where the kitchen was the heart of our home. This dish always brings back memories of laughter and shared meals, making it a special part of my cooking repertoire. If you’re looking for a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings comfort to your table, Chicken Lo Mein is the one to try.

It’s quick, easy, and the kind of meal that everyone appreciates. Plus, you can customize it with any veggies you have on hand. Cooking this dish feels like giving your family a warm hug, and I can’t wait for you to share in this experience!

Preparation Process for Chicken Lo Mein:

• Total time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Cost: Approximately $15
• Servings: 4
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: Chinese
• Calories: 450 per serving

Ingredients for Chicken Lo Mein:

• 8 oz lo mein noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

These ingredients not only come together beautifully, but they also offer a delightful balance of flavors. The lo mein noodles are the star of the show, providing a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken breast. The vibrant mixed vegetables add color and nutrition, while the blend of sauces creates that savory, umami taste we all love.

Personal Note: A fun tip is to use leftover cooked chicken or veggies to make this dish even faster. You can also add a touch of chili oil if you like it spicy!

Steps to Prepare Chicken Lo Mein:

1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re cooked, drain them and set them aside. This step is so easy, and the smell of the noodles cooking will get your family excited!

2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Let it heat up nicely for a minute or two, so your chicken will sear beautifully.

3. Stir-Fry the Chicken:
Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, and stir-fry until it’s cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You want that golden-brown color—it’s important for flavor! Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry everything for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. This will make your kitchen smell divine!

5. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. This sauce is the magic that ties everything together.

6. Combine It All:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with your delicious sauce and the lo mein noodles. Toss everything together gently until the noodles are coated well with the sauce and all the flavors meld together beautifully.

7. Season and Serve:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is well mixed and heated through, serve your Chicken Lo Mein hot, garnished with chopped green onions. It looks gorgeous and tastes even better!

Why I Love Making This Dish:
Chicken Lo Mein is one of those recipes that I could make with my eyes closed. It’s comforting, it reminds me of family dinners, and the best part is how it brings everyone together at the table. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the ease of cooking makes it an ideal dish for busy days or when you’re craving something special without too much fuss.

What You’ll Need:
To make this Chicken Lo Mein, here are a few small tools that will make your experience easier:

• A large skillet or wok
• A pot for boiling noodles
• A cutting board and knife for slicing
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Chicken Lo Mein:

1. Start by cooking your lo mein noodles in boiling water until they’re tender. Drain them and set them aside. Trust me, this is important so you can toss them in later effortlessly!
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken.
3. Add your sliced chicken breast to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes, making sure it’s cooked through and golden.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. In the same skillet, toss in 2 cups of mixed vegetables with 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 inch of grated ginger. Stir-fry everything for about 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are just tender.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 2 teaspoons of sugar.
7. Add the chicken back to the skillet along with your amazing sauce and the lo mein noodles. Toss it all together until every noodle is well-coated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and serve it up hot with some green onions on top!

Tips for the Best Results:

• Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps it sear nicely.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables! You want them to maintain a bit of crunch for great texture.
• Feel free to switch out the vegetables based on what you have in your fridge; it’s versatile!

Serving Suggestions:
I love to serve my Chicken Lo Mein with a side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls for a complete meal. And don’t forget a drizzle of sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping! It elevates the experience, adding one more layer of flavor.

What to Serve with Chicken Lo Mein:
Pair this delightful dish with some hot and sour soup or a simple cucumber salad to provide a refreshing balance to the meal.

What to Do with Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers (which isn’t likely because it’s so tasty), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to make sure they don’t dry out. They can also be microwaved for quick reheating, but I find that the skillet helps retain the texture better.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use different proteins? Yes! You can use shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken in this recipe.
• What if I don’t have lo mein noodles? You can substitute with spaghetti or any other noodles you prefer, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Just replace the chicken with more vegetables and maybe some tofu for protein.
• How long will leftovers last? Your Chicken Lo Mein will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

So there you have it—a comforting, flavorful Chicken Lo Mein recipe that’s sure to please your family and friends. I encourage you to give it a try and feel the warmth it brings to your kitchen. Remember, cooking is about love and sharing, and there’s nothing like a home-cooked meal to foster connection. Enjoy every delicious bite!