Easy Chicken Lo Mein – Better Than Takeout in 25 Minutes
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Chicken Lo Mein: A Delicious Chinese-American Delight
Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American dish that combines savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles in a delicious stir-fry. This popular dish is beloved for its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Chicken Lo Mein is a Must-Try Dish
There are many reasons why Chicken Lo Mein should be on your cooking radar. Here are a few compelling reasons to give this recipe a try:
1. Quick and Easy: comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
2. Customizable: You can easily tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the level of spiciness.
3. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the combination of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and flavorful sauce in Chicken Lo Mein.
4. Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients, Chicken Lo Mein is a cost-effective way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Lo Mein
To make it at home, you will need the following ingredients:
– 8 oz. lo mein noodles
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, julienned
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and chicken slices, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink.
4. Add the bell pepper, mushrooms, cabbage, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add the cooked noodles and the sauce mixture to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Lo Mein is best served hot and fresh, straight from the skillet. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of steamed rice or a light cucumber salad. You can also garnish the dish with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick of flavor.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few variations and substitutions you can try with your Chicken Lo Mein:
– Swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
– Add in additional vegetables such as snow peas, broccoli, or baby corn for extra crunch and color.
– For a spicy kick, stir in some sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Chicken Lo Mein turns out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:
– Slice the ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking.
– Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should be vibrant and slightly crisp.
– Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more soy sauce or oyster sauce as needed.
FAQs about Chicken Lo Mein
1. Can I use spaghetti noodles instead of lo mein noodles?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti noodles for lo mein noodles in a pinch. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the stir-fry.
2. How long does Chicken Lo Mein stay fresh in the refrigerator?
Chicken Lo Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until heated through before serving.
3. Is Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free?
While the traditional recipe contains soy sauce, which is not gluten-free, you can easily make a gluten-free version by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute.
4. Can I make Chicken Lo Mein ahead of time?
Chicken Lo Mein is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble and cook the dish just before serving for the best results.
5. How can I make Chicken Lo Mein spicier?
To add more heat to your Chicken Lo Mein, increase the amount of chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes in the sauce mixture. Adjust the spiciness level to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a delicious homemade version of this Chinese-American favorite in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, Chicken Lo Mein is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking!
Chicken Lo Mein
Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American dish that combines savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles in a delicious stir-fry. This popular dish is beloved for its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. lo mein noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and chicken slices, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Add the bell pepper, mushrooms, cabbage, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked noodles and the sauce mixture to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
