If you’ve scrolled through social media lately, you might have noticed a delicious buzz around Chicken Lo Mein. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a scrumptious mix of flavors, comfort, and simplicity that everyone seems to be raving about. But what makes this dish so appealing? Let’s dive into why you absolutely need to make Chicken Lo Mein at home!
Recipe Overview
Chicken Lo Mein is a popular Chinese noodle dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and chewy lo mein noodles with a flavorful sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite veggies and proteins, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein
Are you ready to whip up this delightful dish? Gather your ingredients and follow these simple steps to make your very own Chicken Lo Mein!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Directions:
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Cook the Noodles: Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain them well and set them aside when done.
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Heat the Pan: In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the pan and cook until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
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Stir-Fry the Veggies: In the same pan, add minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.
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Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the cooked lo mein noodles into the mix.
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Add the Sauce: Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the sauce.
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Season it Up: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste to enhance the flavor.
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Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a fresh touch!
How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein
Chicken Lo Mein is best served hot and fresh from the pan. You can serve it on its own as a satisfying main dish or pair it with spring rolls or dumplings for a complete meal. A side of crunchy pickled vegetables can also add an extra punch to your dinner.
How to Store Chicken Lo Mein
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed throughout.
Tips to Make Chicken Lo Mein
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Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and chicken will enhance the flavors of the dish.
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Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Make sure to cook the lo mein noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook when mixed with other ingredients.
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Customize Your Dish: Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef based on your preference.
Variations
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Vegetable Lo Mein: For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and add more colorful vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini.
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Spicy Chicken Lo Mein: If you like it hot, consider adding some chili sauce or red pepper flakes to spice things up.
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Egg Lo Mein: Scramble in an egg before adding in the sauces for a protein boost!
Tips for Success
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Prep Ahead: Chop all your ingredients ahead of time. Having everything ready to go saves time during cooking.
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High Heat: Stir-frying on high heat helps create a nice sear on the chicken and keeps the vegetables crisp.
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Don’t Crowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking in smaller portions to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How Many Servings?
This Chicken Lo Mein recipe serves four people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead!
Calories and Nutrition Facts per Serving
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fats: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
Health Benefits of Chicken Lo Mein
Chicken Lo Mein can be a part of a balanced diet. It provides a mix of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the noodles, and essential vitamins from the veggies. Adding more vegetables increases the nutrient content and fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Absolutely! Chicken Lo Mein is a great choice for older adults as it offers protein for muscle health and carbohydrates for energy. The dish can be modified to lower sodium or increase vegetables, catering to dietary needs.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can use spaghetti, rice noodles, or any other noodle type if lo mein noodles are not available. -
What can I serve with Chicken Lo Mein?
Spring rolls, dumplings, or a simple green salad makes for excellent sides. -
Can I freeze Chicken Lo Mein?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Chicken Lo Mein is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings friends and family together around the dinner table. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time! So, why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
