Chicken Lo Mein

Introduction

Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Asian dish that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy noodles, all tossed in a savory sauce. It is a popular choice for quick weeknight dinners and is sure to become a family favorite. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to add your preferred vegetables or protein.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken, thinly sliced – 1 pound
Lo Mein noodles – 8 ounces
Bell pepper, sliced – 1 cup
Carrots, julienned – 1 cup
Snow peas – 1 cup
Scallions, chopped – 1/2 cup
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
Oyster sauce – 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
Ginger, minced – 1 tablespoon
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon (optional, for thickening)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into thin strips. Season with soy sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it is fully cooked and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary, and toss in sliced bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked lo mein noodles along with soy sauce, sesame oil, and any additional seasonings. Toss everything together for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Once everything is well mixed and heated, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Onion and Garlic

For added flavor, consider including minced garlic and onion while cooking the vegetables.

Note 2: Vegetable Variations

Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables based on personal preference, such as snow peas or mushrooms.

Note 3: Sauce Adjustments

Adjust the amount of soy sauce and sesame oil based on taste; this can help control the saltiness.

Note 4: Protein Alternatives

This recipe can be easily adapted by substituting chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for different protein options.

Note 5: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a cooking technique that involves quickly cooking food in a small amount of oil over high heat. This method ensures that the chicken and vegetables are cooked evenly while retaining their texture and flavor.

Boiling Noodles

Cooking noodles in boiling water until they reach the desired tenderness is essential. It’s important to drain and rinse them with cold water afterward to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in a mixture of sauces and spices enhances the flavor. Allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Chopping Vegetables

Properly chopping vegetables into uniform sizes ensures even cooking. This technique also helps in achieving a balance of colors and textures in the final dish.

Layering Flavors

Building layers of flavor through the addition of aromatics, sauces, and spices at different stages of cooking enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu depending on your preference.

What type of noodles should I use?

Egg noodles are commonly used for lo mein, but you can also use other types of Asian noodles such as udon or rice noodles.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu for protein.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and serve the dish fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

What toppings can I add to enhance the dish?

Consider adding sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or crushed red pepper for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

After preparing this delicious Chicken Lo Mein, you will discover how easy and fulfilling it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory noodles creates a perfect harmony of flavors that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, or as a comforting meal for yourself.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Lo Mein

For a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with an assortment of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli.

Shrimp Lo Mein

Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood variation. The shrimp adds a unique flavor and pairs well with the noodles and sauce.

Beef Lo Mein

Swap the chicken for thinly sliced beef to create a heartier dish. Marinate the beef for extra tender and flavorful results.

Spicy Chicken Lo Mein

Add some heat by incorporating chili paste or Sriracha into the sauce to spice up the traditional Chicken Lo Mein.

Coconut Curry Lo Mein

For a twist, add coconut milk and curry powder to create a rich, aromatic dish that brings an entirely new flavor profile to Lo Mein.

Chicken and Mushroom Lo Mein

Combine the classic chicken with sliced mushrooms to enhance the umami flavor and add a satisfyingly earthy taste to the dish.