Why make this recipe
Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful dish that not only brings vibrant colors to your plate but also combines a fantastic mix of flavors. Making this meal at home allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality experience without the need to dine out. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quick cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Additionally, you can customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you want it spicy or prefer to keep it mild, Chicken Lo Mein is an adaptable dish that can cater to everyone’s palate. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate various vegetables into your meal, making it nutritious and satisfying.
How to make Chicken Lo Mein
Making Chicken Lo Mein can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s how you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- ÂĽ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves fresh minced garlic
Directions:
- Gather all the ingredients and chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add oil and sauté the chicken until it is golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet.
- In the same pan, stir-fry the red and yellow bell peppers, carrots, and green onions until they are tender yet crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the lo mein noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and any additional spices you may want to include. Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Serve hot, and add extra soy sauce on top if desired.
Nutritional benefits
Chicken Lo Mein is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Here’s a quick look at the health benefits of some key ingredients:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to a healthy immune system.
- Carrots: A fantastic source of beta-carotene and antioxidants, which are great for skin health and vision.
- Green Onions: They add flavor and are a good source of vitamins K and C.
Including these nutritious ingredients in your diet can contribute to overall health and wellness.
What to Serve With Chicken Lo Mein
Chicken Lo Mein pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complement your meal:
- Egg Rolls: Crispy and filled with vegetables or meat, egg rolls make a great sidekick to Chicken Lo Mein.
- Hot and Sour Soup: The flavors of this classic soup create a delightful balance with the noodle dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only enhances nutrition but also adds a nice crunch.
- Fried Rice: For a heartier meal, serve Chicken Lo Mein alongside some delicious fried rice.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll love Chicken Lo Mein for its ease and versatility. This dish cooks quickly, allowing you to get a flavorful meal on the table in around 30 minutes. Since you can choose different vegetables or add spices, you can make it suit your tastes perfectly. In addition, as you learn this recipe, you can experiment with different proteins or vegetarian options. The balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors in the soy sauce and sesame oil is truly irresistible.
How to store Chicken Lo Mein
If you find yourself with leftovers after a meal, storing Chicken Lo Mein is straightforward. Here’s how:
- Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Airtight Container: Place the leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. You may add a splash of water or extra soy sauce to keep it from drying out.
Tips and mistakes to avoid
To make the best Chicken Lo Mein possible, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Make sure to cook the lo mein noodles until just al dente. They will continue to cook when stir-fried.
- Use High Heat: Cooking over medium-high heat helps to give the chicken and vegetables a nice sear, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Prep Beforehand: Chop all your vegetables and prepare your other ingredients before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and quicker.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet or wok is too crowded, you may steam the ingredients rather than sautéing them. Cook in batches if necessary.
Variation
Chicken Lo Mein is versatile, and you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Add More Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a completely different taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or bok choy for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha for those who enjoy a kick of heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, if you can’t find Lo Mein noodles, you can use other types of noodles like soba or even spaghetti if needed. Just cook them according to the package instructions.
2. Can I make Chicken Lo Mein ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead, let it cool, and store it. This makes it a great meal prep option for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
3. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
While sesame oil adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or a mild olive oil. Keep in mind that it will change the overall taste slightly.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with Chicken Lo Mein, a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Print
Chicken Lo Mein
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delightful Chicken Lo Mein recipe combining vibrant colors and flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- ÂĽ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves fresh minced garlic
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients and chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add oil and sauté the chicken until it is golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet.
- In the same pan, stir-fry the red and yellow bell peppers, carrots, and green onions until they are tender yet crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the lo mein noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and any additional spices. Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Serve hot, and add extra soy sauce on top if desired.
Notes
Customize with your choice of protein or add spices for a desired heat level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
