Name: Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: For Optional Sriracha Roasted Veggies:; 8 oz cremini mushrooms; ½ red pepper; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tsp Sriracha Hot Sauce; For Sauce:; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp hot water; For Lo mein:; 8 oz fresh lo mein noodles; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 1 lb chicken breast; ½ Head Green Cabbage; 1 large carrot; For Garnish:; fresh scallions; Sesame seeds

Dive into a delectable and easy chicken lo mein recipe that merges the savory flavors of soy sauce and hoisin sauce with the crunch of fresh vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn't skimp on taste.

Photos of Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every household. Lo mein noodles, hoisin sauce, and sriracha are items you may need to pick up at the supermarket. Ensure you check the international or Asian cuisine aisle for these.

Ingredients For Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

cremini mushrooms: Earthy and tender mushrooms that add umami flavor.

red pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.

sesame oil: Nutty oil that enhances the dish's aroma.

sriracha hot sauce: Spicy sauce for an extra kick.

soy sauce: Salty and savory base for the sauce.

hoisin sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy depth to the sauce.

hot water: Helps to blend the sauce ingredients.

lo mein noodles: Soft and chewy noodles that are the heart of the dish.

vegetable oil: Neutral oil for cooking the chicken.

chicken breast: Lean protein source, thinly sliced.

green cabbage: Crunchy vegetable that adds texture.

carrot: Adds sweetness and crunch.

fresh scallions: Garnish that adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.

sesame seeds: Nutty garnish that adds a bit of crunch.

One reader, Heda Bagley says:

This easy chicken lo mein recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are spot-on, and the sriracha roasted veggies add a delightful kick. It's quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Highly recommend!

Heda Bagley

Key Techniques for Preparing Chicken Lo Mein

How to toss vegetables: Explanation on how to evenly coat vegetables with oil and sriracha. How to cook noodles: Explanation on boiling noodles until tender and draining them properly. How to stir-fry chicken: Explanation on cooking chicken in a wok or skillet until just barely cooked through. How to stir-fry vegetables: Explanation on cooking cabbage and carrots until they wilt and their liquid evaporates. How to combine ingredients: Explanation on mixing noodles, sauce, chicken, and vegetables together in the wok or skillet.

How To Make Easy Chicken Lo Mein

This delicious and easy chicken lo mein, a Chinese dish made with noodles, meat, and veggies tossed in a flavorful sauce! This dish is ready in 35 minutes!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Optional Sriracha Roasted Veggies:

8ozcremini mushrooms,quartered
½red pepper,sliced
1tbspsesame oil
2tspsriracha hot sauce

For Sauce:

3tbspsoy sauce
1tbsphoisin sauce
2tspsesame oil
2tbsphot water

For Lo Mein:

8ozfresh lo mein noodles,or dried
1tspsesame oil
1tbspvegetable oil
1lbchicken breast,boneless, sliced thin
½head green cabbage,(about 3 cups) shredded
1large carrot,grated

For Garnish:

fresh scallions,chopped
sesame seeds

Instructions

Sriracha Roasted Vegetables:

Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.
In a small bowl, toss the quartered mushrooms and red peppers with the sesame oil and sriracha.
Spread out on a baking sheet.
While making the Chicken Lo Mein, bake for 15 minutes until tender and blistered in spots.
Stir the sauce ingredients together and set near the stove.

Lo Mein Noodles:

Bring a large amount of salted water to a boil.
Add the noodles and cook for around 4 minutes until tender, but check the package directions for the noodles using.
Drain the noodles and toss with the sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the vegetable oil once that’s hot, add the chicken.
Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is just barely cooked through, stirring frequently. (The chicken will continue to cook with the vegetables, so it’s ok if it seems a little undercooked right now.)
When the chicken is cooked, add the cabbage and carrots, and continue to stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies wilt and the liquid they release is mostly evaporated.
Add the noodles along with sauce and stir with the chicken and veggies to combine.
The sauce should coat the noodles and other ingredients. If the dish seems too dry, add more water.
Taste and adjust the flavor to preference. Add another dash of soy sauce, if needed.
Serve the Chicken Lo Mein topped with scallions, sesame seeds, and roasted veggies, if desired.

Recipe Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days and will reheat beautifully in the microwave.

Nutrition

Calories: 573.26kcal
Fat: 23.76g
Saturated Fat: 4.97g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.33g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.58g
Carbohydrates: 54.77g
Fiber: 6.22g
Sugar: 8.50g
Protein: 36.05g
Cholesterol: 120.32mg
Sodium: 907.37mg
Calcium: 102.80mg
Potassium: 993.63mg
Iron: 4.24mg
Vitamin A: 216.65µg
Vitamin C: 65.42mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

When cooking chicken in a wok or large skillet, make sure to cut the chicken breast into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to achieve a nice sear on all sides. This will help lock in the juices and keep the chicken tender.

Time-Saving Tips for Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop vegetables and slice chicken in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-cooked noodles: Opt for pre-cooked lo mein noodles to cut down on boiling time.

One-pan roasting: Roast mushrooms and red peppers on the same sheet to streamline the process.

Quick sauce mix: Prepare the sauce while the vegetables roast to multitask efficiently.

High heat cooking: Use high heat to quickly cook the chicken and vegetables, reducing overall cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Cremini mushrooms - Substitute with button mushrooms: Button mushrooms have a similar texture and flavor profile.
Red pepper - Substitute with yellow pepper: Yellow peppers provide a similar sweetness and crunch.
Sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a similar nutty flavor and high smoke point.
Sriracha hot sauce - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce offers a similar heat and garlic flavor.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative with a similar umami flavor.
Hoisin sauce - Substitute with oyster sauce: Oyster sauce provides a similar sweet and savory flavor.
Fresh lo mein noodles - Substitute with spaghetti: Spaghetti can mimic the texture of lo mein noodles when cooked al dente.
Vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
Chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is lean and has a similar texture when cooked.
Green cabbage - Substitute with napa cabbage: Napa cabbage has a similar crunch and mild flavor.
Large carrot - Substitute with parsnip: Parsnip has a similar texture and slightly sweet flavor when cooked.
Fresh scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor.
Sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Beautifully Present Chicken Lo Mein

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken lo mein in a small, elegant bowl to highlight the delicate balance of flavors. This allows each element to shine without overwhelming the palate.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Add a few sriracha roasted vegetables on top for a pop of color and texture.
Layer the ingredients: Start with a base of lo mein noodles, then add the chicken and vegetables. Drizzle the sauce over the top to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Highlight textures: Ensure the vegetables are slightly wilted but still have a crunch. The chicken should be tender and juicy, contrasting with the soft noodles.
Use a clean plate: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate to make the vibrant colors of the vegetables and noodles stand out. This adds a professional touch and enhances visual appeal.
Add a touch of elegance: Place a small edible flower or a delicate herb sprig, like cilantro or parsley, on top of the dish. This adds a sophisticated touch and a hint of freshness.
Balance the flavors: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning. Add a dash of soy sauce if needed to ensure the flavors are perfectly balanced.
Create height: Stack the noodles and chicken slightly higher in the center of the plate. This adds dimension and makes the dish more visually appealing.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, from the chicken breast to the fresh lo mein noodles, are of the highest quality to impress culinary professionals.
Serve immediately: Present the dish as soon as it’s ready to maintain the perfect temperature and texture, ensuring the noodles remain tender and the vegetables stay crisp.

Essential Tools for Making Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Oven: Used to roast the sriracha vegetables at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Small bowl: For tossing the mushrooms and red peppers with sesame oil and sriracha.
Baking sheet: To spread out the vegetables for roasting.
Large pot: For boiling the water to cook the lo mein noodles.
Colander: To drain the cooked lo mein noodles.
Wok: Ideal for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables due to its high sides and even heat distribution.
Large skillet: An alternative to the wok for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Wooden spoon: For stirring the chicken, vegetables, and noodles.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the sesame oil, sriracha, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and hot water.
Knife: For cutting the chicken breast, cabbage, and carrot.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping the chicken and vegetables.
Tongs: Useful for tossing the noodles with sesame oil and for mixing the lo mein.
Serving bowl: To serve the finished chicken lo mein.
Scissors: For snipping the fresh scallions used as garnish.
Measuring cup: To measure the hot water for the sauce.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Lo Mein

Let the chicken lo mein cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken lo mein for up to 2-3 months:
- Divide the cooled lo mein into individual serving-sized portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
To reheat frozen chicken lo mein:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally and adding a little water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Note: The texture of the noodles and vegetables may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the dish will still be flavorful and enjoyable.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Lo Mein

Reheat the chicken lo mein in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the noodles and create a bit of steam. Stir frequently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
For a crispy texture, spread the leftover lo mein on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Toss the noodles halfway through to ensure even heating.
Microwave the leftover chicken lo mein in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the noodles from drying out. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
If you have leftover roasted vegetables, reheat them separately in the oven or microwave until warm. Add them to the reheated chicken lo mein just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
For a fresh twist, transform leftover lo mein into a stir-fry by adding some beaten eggs and additional vegetables like bean sprouts, bell peppers, or onions. Cook the eggs and vegetables first, then add the leftover noodles and stir-fry until heated through.

Interesting Fact About Chicken Lo Mein

A fun fact about this chicken lo mein recipe is that lo mein noodles are traditionally made from wheat flour and eggs, giving them a unique texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce and tender chicken.

Is This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Budget-Friendly?

Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this chicken lo mein recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The main ingredients like chicken breast, lo mein noodles, and vegetables such as cabbage and carrots are relatively affordable and widely available. The use of pantry staples like soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil further enhances its cost-effectiveness. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $15-$20 USD, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Is Chicken Lo Mein Healthy or Unhealthy?

The easy chicken lo mein recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The recipe incorporates:

Lean protein from the chicken breast
Fiber-rich vegetables like mushrooms, red peppers, cabbage, and carrots
Lo mein noodles, which provide carbohydrates for energy

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the dish even healthier:

The sauce contains soy sauce and hoisin sauce, which can be high in sodium
The recipe uses vegetable oil and sesame oil, which are sources of fat

To enhance the nutritional value of this chicken lo mein, I suggest the following modifications:

Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
Use a minimal amount of oil when cooking the chicken and vegetables, or consider using a non-stick pan to reduce the need for added oils
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the recipe to boost fiber and nutrient intake. Consider adding other nutrient-dense options like bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas
Choose whole wheat lo mein noodles instead of regular noodles to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
Limit the amount of hoisin sauce used, as it can be high in sugar. You can also look for lower-sugar alternatives or use a smaller quantity to maintain the flavor profile

By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutrient-dense and well-rounded meal that still satisfies your craving for a delicious chicken lo mein.

Editor's Opinion on This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

This easy chicken lo mein recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The sriracha roasted vegetables add a spicy, smoky depth, while the combination of soy and hoisin sauces provides a savory umami punch. Fresh lo mein noodles ensure a satisfying chew, and the sesame oil imparts a nutty aroma. The inclusion of fresh scallions and sesame seeds as garnish adds a refreshing crunch and visual appeal. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that's simple to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Enhance Your Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Miso Soup: Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be the perfect companion to your chicken lo mein. The umami-rich broth, combined with tofu and seaweed, offers a comforting contrast to the savory noodles.

Asian Cucumber Salad: Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this cucumber salad is tossed with a tangy rice vinegar dressing and sprinkled with sesame seeds. It provides a light, crunchy counterpoint to the hearty lo mein.

Spring Rolls: Spring Rolls: These delicate spring rolls are filled with a mix of shrimp, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs. Dip them in a sweet and spicy peanut sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Mango Sticky Rice: Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, mango sticky rice is a delightful choice. The creamy coconut milk infused sticky rice paired with juicy mango slices creates a tropical dessert that complements the savory main dish.

Edamame: Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt is a simple yet satisfying side. These soybeans are not only nutritious but also add a delightful pop of color and texture to your meal.

Similar Recipes to Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: Craving a quick and flavorful main course? This spicy beef stir-fry is packed with tender beef strips, vibrant bell peppers, and a zesty soy-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Shrimp Pad Thai: Dive into the world of Thai cuisine with this delightful shrimp pad thai. Featuring succulent shrimp, crunchy peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce, this dish is a symphony of flavors and textures.

Vegetable Chow Mein: For a vegetarian twist, try this vegetable chow mein. Loaded with fresh broccoli, snap peas, and carrots, and tossed in a savory soy-garlic sauce, it's a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Teriyaki Chicken Bowls: These teriyaki chicken bowls are a delightful fusion of tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice and steamed vegetables. A perfect balance of flavors!

Garlic Sesame Tofu: For a plant-based option, try garlic sesame tofu. Crispy tofu cubes are tossed in a fragrant garlic sesame sauce and paired with stir-fried bok choy and bell peppers. A delicious and nutritious choice!

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts for Chicken Lo Mein

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden and bubbly. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, creating a bite-sized treat that's both elegant and comforting. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.

Spring Rolls: Spring Rolls offer a fresh and crunchy beginning to your dining experience. These rolls are packed with crisp vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, along with tender shrimp or tofu for a protein boost. Wrapped in delicate rice paper, they are served with a tangy peanut dipping sauce that adds a burst of flavor. The combination of textures and tastes makes them a refreshing and satisfying appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake. This indulgent treat is perfect for those who crave a decadent dessert. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures. The warm, gooey chocolate lava oozes out as you cut into the cake, creating a mesmerizing and irresistible experience.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon curd filling topped with a pillowy meringue. The buttery crust provides a perfect base, while the lemon filling offers a refreshing burst of citrus. The meringue topping is lightly toasted to a golden brown, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to any meal, and watch as your guests savor each bite of this delightful treat.

Why trust this Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe:

This recipe for chicken lo mein is a must-try because it combines the rich flavors of soy sauce and hoisin sauce with the perfect texture of fresh lo mein noodles. The addition of sriracha roasted veggies adds a delightful kick, making it a well-rounded dish. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even beginners can achieve restaurant-quality results. Plus, the use of sesame oil and scallions for garnish elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.

Share your thoughts on this easy chicken lo mein recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you can't find fresh lo mein noodles, you can use spaghetti, linguine, or even rice noodles. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or tofu. Just follow the same cooking steps for the veggies and tofu.

How spicy is this dish with the sriracha roasted veggies?

The sriracha adds a nice kick, but it's not overwhelmingly spicy. If you're sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount of sriracha or skip the roasted veggies altogether.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just store the cooked lo mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What can I use as a substitute for hoisin sauce?

If you don't have hoisin sauce, you can use a mixture of soy sauce, a bit of honey or brown sugar, and a splash of rice vinegar. It won't be exactly the same, but it will still taste great.