Chicken Lo Mein: A Noodle Dish Delight

Chicken Lo Mein. The very name conjures images of perfectly cooked noodles, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables all tossed in a savory sauce. I’ve always been captivated by this dish, not just for its deliciousness, but for its fascinating history and enduring popularity.

While the exact origins of Lo Mein are debated, its roots lie in the rich culinary traditions of China. It’s a dish that transcends regional boundaries, evolving and adapting over centuries to incorporate diverse ingredients and techniques. What started as a simple noodle dish has become a global favorite, a testament to its versatility and inherent deliciousness.

What makes Chicken Lo Mein so beloved? For me, it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The satisfying chewiness of the noodles, the tender bite of the chicken, and the crispness of the vegetables create a symphony in your mouth. The savory sauce, often a blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, adds a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a dish that’s incredibly satisfying, yet surprisingly light, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing addition to any gathering.

Beyond its taste and texture, the convenience of Chicken Lo Mein is a major draw. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. And, of course, it’s incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, proteins, or even spice levels to create your own perfect version of this classic. So, let’s dive in and explore this amazing recipe together! Get ready to experience the magic of homemade Chicken Lo Mein.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 (16 oz) package dried lo mein noodles
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup oyster sauce (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This helps the chicken to stay tender and juicy during cooking and also helps the sauce to cling to it better.
2. Set the chicken aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! I usually let it sit for at least 30 minutes, if I have the time.

Cooking the Noodles

1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them in salted water until they are al dente. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll become mushy.
2. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents them from sticking together.
3. Set the noodles aside. You can lightly toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Stir-frying the Vegetables and Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. A wok is ideal for stir-fries because of its shape, but a large skillet works just as well.
2. Add the chicken to the hot wok and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Make sure to break up any clumps of chicken as it cooks.
3. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Don’t burn the garlic!
5. Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots to the wok and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to still have a little bit of a bite to them.

Making the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, 1/2 cup soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is where you can really customize the sauce to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more brown sugar. If you want it spicier, add more red pepper flakes.

Combining and Finishing

1. Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat everything evenly. This is crucial for a delicious and flavorful lo mein.
2. Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the wok and toss gently to coat them with the sauce. Be careful not to break the noodles.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more soy sauce, rice vinegar, or brown sugar, depending on your preference. This is your chance to perfect the flavor profile.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using). The best lo mein is served hot and fresh!

Tips for the Best Chicken Lo Mein

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the wok when stir-frying. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken and vegetables cook evenly.
• If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can omit it or substitute it with a teaspoon of fish sauce for a similar umami flavor.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to your lo mein, such as mushrooms, snow peas, or bean sprouts.
• For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables of your choice. Tofu would be a great addition!
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! My recipe for Chicken Lo Mein. I truly believe this dish deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation, and not just because it’s incredibly delicious. It’s also incredibly versatile. The beauty of this Chicken Lo Mein lies in its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Need to use up some leftover vegetables? Throw them in! Prefer a spicier kick? Add a dash more chili garlic sauce or a few slices of fresh chili pepper. Want to make it a vegetarian delight? Simply omit the chicken and add extra tofu or your favorite vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Why is this Chicken Lo Mein a must-try? Let me count the ways! First, it’s incredibly flavorful. The savory sauce, perfectly balanced with sweet and umami notes, coats every strand of noodle and every piece of chicken. Second, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll be able to whip up this dish in under an hour. Third, it’s incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and vibrant vegetables is a culinary symphony that will leave you feeling full and happy. And finally, it’s incredibly customizable! The possibilities are truly endless.

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken Lo Mein is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I personally love serving it with a side of steamed rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the dish perfectly. For a more substantial meal, consider adding some spring rolls or potstickers. And don’t forget the drinks! A crisp, cold beer or a refreshing iced tea would be the perfect accompaniment.

Variations to Explore:

Beyond the basic recipe, there are countless ways to personalize your Chicken Lo Mein. Consider these exciting variations:

• Shrimp Lo Mein: Substitute cooked shrimp for the chicken for a lighter, yet equally flavorful dish.
• Beef Lo Mein: Use thinly sliced beef instead of chicken for a richer, more savory flavor profile.
• Vegetable Lo Mein: Omit the meat altogether and load up on your favorite vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Spicy Chicken Lo Mein: Add a generous amount of chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Garlic Lovers Chicken Lo Mein: Increase the amount of garlic in the recipe for an extra pungent and aromatic dish.

Don’t Forget to Share!

I genuinely hope you give this Chicken Lo Mein recipe a try. It’s a dish that I’ve perfected over many years, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and feedback on social media using the hashtag #MyChickenLoMein. Let’s create a community of Chicken Lo Mein lovers! I can’t wait to see your creations and hear about your delicious culinary adventures. Happy cooking!

Ready to embark on a flavorful journey?

Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! This Chicken Lo Mein recipe is waiting to be discovered, and I promise, it won’t disappoint. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy the deliciousness!