Delicious Chicken Lo Mein

This Chicken Lo Mein dish brings the perfect balance of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy noodles all coated in a savory sauce that sings with classic Chinese flavors. It’s an ideal meal for weeknights when you want something satisfying without too much fuss. The ease of preparation and the ability to switch up ingredients make this a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

I first tried this recipe when craving takeout but wanting homemade, and now it’s a regular request at family dinners. The bright colors and quick cooking always brighten my week.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts choose fresh pieces for juicy tender results
• Lo Mein noodles: either fresh or dried fresh offers a soft bite but dried works well too if cooked properly
• Red bell pepper: 1 adds sweetness and a pop of color look for firm, glossy peppers
• Yellow bell pepper: 1 also for vibrant color and mild flavor
• Carrots: 2 thinly sliced provide a slight crunch and natural sweetness pick firm carrots without cracks
• Green onions: 2 chopped give a mild oniony aroma and freshness fresh green tops are a sign of quality
• Soy sauce: quarter cup low-sodium balances salt and umami without overwhelming the dish
• Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon imparts a distinctive nutty aroma essential to the authentic flavor
• Fresh minced garlic: 3 cloves a must for depth and fragrance fresh garlic always beats pre-minced

How to Make It

Sauté the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot. Add sesame oil then carefully place chicken breasts cut into thin strips. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes stirring occasionally until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside. This step seals in juices while building a savory base.

Cook the Noodles:

Meanwhile, prepare the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until just al dente meaning tender but with some chew. Drain the noodles well to prevent sogginess. You can toss with a small amount of oil to keep them separated if desired.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

In the same pan over medium-high heat, add bell peppers sliced into strips, thin carrot slices, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes just until the vegetables become tender but still retain some crispness which adds great texture contrast.

Combine Ingredients and Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add the drained noodles then pour in the soy sauce and minced garlic. Toss gently but thoroughly so every strand of noodle and piece of chicken is coated in the savory garlic soy mixture and heated through evenly.

Serve Immediately:

Dish out the lo mein while hot along with extra soy sauce on the side so everyone can season to taste. This dish is best enjoyed fresh to savor its vibrant colors and textures.

I remember the first time I made this recipe, the kids were drawn in by the smell before they even saw the meal. It quickly became a family favorite on busy school nights.

Flavor Boosters

Marinate your chicken beforehand in a bit of soy sauce and garlic for extra depth, especially on busy nights

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice or simple stir-fried greens to round out the meal. A light cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing complements the savory richness of the lo mein well.

Creative Twists

If you do not have lo mein noodles, spaghetti or linguine pasta can work in a pinch. Tofu or beef can replace the chicken to suit different diets or preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms for variety.

This Chicken Lo Mein is a reliable weeknight favorite that balances speedy preparation with rich, authentic flavors.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well as they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms are great alternatives or additions to enhance nutrition and texture.

→ How do I prevent noodles from sticking together?

Cook noodles until al dente, rinse with cold water, and toss with a little oil before stir-frying to keep them separated.

→ Is marinating the chicken necessary?

Marinating chicken in soy sauce and garlic for an hour deepens flavor but is optional for quicker preparation.

→ What oil is best for stir-frying?

Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma and blends perfectly with soy sauce to elevate the dish's taste.