Name: Chicken Lo Mein Recipe: Savory and Flavorful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz lo mein noodles; 1 lb chicken breast (sliced); 2 tbsp soy sauce (for chicken); 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 1 red bell pepper (sliced); 1 cup sliced carrots; 1 cup snow peas; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated); 3 scallions (sliced); 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp cornstarch; Optional: Scallions (sesame seeds); Suggested Pairings: Egg rolls (green tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American main dish, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or quick weeknight meals. This savory, satisfying dish, featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy noodles tossed in a flavorful sauce, delivers a delightful taste in every bite. Presented in white ceramic bowls, garnished with chopped scallions or sesame seeds, this Chicken Lo Mein offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings Asian-inspired flair to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Lo Mein:

8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce (for marinating chicken)
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup snow peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
3 scallions, sliced (white and green parts separated)

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp cornstarch

Serving:

Optional: Chopped scallions, sesame seeds
Suggested Accompaniments: Egg rolls, steamed broccoli
Suggested Pairings: Green tea, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in white ceramic bowls
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, wok or large skillet, mixing bowl, whisk, knife, cutting board, measuring cups/spoons, tongs

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente, about 4–6 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, toss sliced chicken with 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, chicken broth, and 1 tsp cornstarch until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust with additional soy sauce (for saltiness) or brown sugar (for sweetness) to ensure a balanced flavor.
Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.
Cook Vegetables: In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add red bell pepper, carrots, snow peas, garlic, ginger, and white parts of scallions. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Combine: Return chicken to the wok. Add noodles and pour in the sauce. Toss everything together with tongs for 2–3 minutes until noodles are coated and heated through.
Serve: Divide lo mein into white ceramic bowls. Garnish with green parts of scallions or sesame seeds. Serve hot with egg rolls, steamed broccoli, green tea, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Chicken Lo Mein

Use fresh lo mein noodles for authentic texture; spaghetti or linguine works as a substitute.
Taste the sauce before tossing to balance savory, sweet, and umami flavors; adjust with soy sauce or sugar.
Slice chicken thinly and uniformly for even cooking; marinating with cornstarch ensures tenderness.
Stir-fry vegetables quickly to retain crunch and vibrant color.
Use white ceramic bowls for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the colorful vegetables and glossy noodles.
Make ahead: Prep vegetables and sauce up to 1 day in advance; store separately in the fridge.
For extra flavor, add 1 tsp chili oil to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in white ceramic bowls with scallions or sesame seeds for a fresh, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Chicken Lo Mein: Use gluten-free soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice noodles; ensure hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
Vegan Chicken Lo Mein: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms, omit oyster sauce, and use vegetable broth.
Low-Sodium Chicken Lo Mein: Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth; reduce soy sauce to 2 tbsp in the sauce.
Spicy Chicken Lo Mein: Add 1–2 tsp chili oil or 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Shrimp Lo Mein: Substitute chicken with peeled shrimp; stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until pink.
Vegetable-Packed Lo Mein: Add 1 cup broccoli florets or sliced mushrooms to the vegetable mix.
Beef Lo Mein: Replace chicken with thinly sliced flank steak; marinate and cook similarly.
Nutty Lo Mein: Sprinkle 1 tbsp crushed peanuts over the finished dish for added crunch.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or microwave until warm.
Freeze without noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and toss with freshly cooked noodles.
Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Use as a main dish for weeknight meals or a side for Asian-inspired feasts.
Pair with green tea or sparkling water to complement the savory, umami flavor.
Present in white ceramic bowls with vibrant garnishes for an appetizing, colorful charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings:

Calories: 420 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 1100mg
Total Carbohydrates: 48g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 70% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 50% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~700mg). High in protein; moderate in fat and sodium. Enjoy vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Chicken Lo Mein recipe offers a savory, flavorful main dish perfect for any occasion. It transforms simple ingredients into a Chinese-American classic. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The tender chicken and glossy noodles delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.