Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein
Fancy a takeaway night, but healthier? You're in for a treat. Forget that greasy stuff! This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is killer.
It tastes just like your favourite Chinese takeout. But better. Honestly? This is way easier than you think.
Quick Hook
Ever wondered if you could make amazing Easy Lo Mein Noodles at home? This recipe nails that takeaway taste. It gives it a fresh, flavorful twist.
Think savory chicken, crisp veggies, and a delicious sauce.
Brief Overview
Lo Mein Noodles have Chinese origins. It's a staple in Chinese American cuisine. This easy recipe takes only 30 minutes. It makes 4 servings. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Main Benefits
This recipe has lean protein and lots of veggies. That's a big health win. It's perfect for a quick, satisfying family meal.
Honestly, what makes it special is the flavor explosion. The taste is better than takeout. I promise!
Ready to get started? Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need for this Easy Lo Mein Recipe !
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe: What You'll Need
Okay, so before we even think about turning on the hob, let's gather our troops, shall we?
- Noodles : 1 pound of Lo Mein Noodles (fresh or dried).
- Chicken : 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Veg : 1 cup sliced carrots, bell pepper, mushrooms, shredded cabbage. Don't forget 2 green onions.
- Sauce : 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup chicken broth.
You know those nights when you just crave something comforting and familiar, yet you also want it now ? This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Easy solves that dilemma perfectly.
It's quick, it's easy, and it tastes like a warm hug. Speaking of substitutions if you are looking for Lo Mein Recipes , why not try this Vegetable Lo Mein recipe
Honestly, this is one of my go-to recipes. This is for those nights when I'm feeling knackered. The speed and simplicity are a godsend.
Also, knowing I'm feeding my family something healthier than a takeaway makes me feel like a domestic goddess, even if only for a moment!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, ready to whip up some seriously tasty Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Easy ? Forget that Lo Mein Takeout . This recipe is quick, easy, and way better.
Trust me! I promise. Let’s go over what you need.
Main Ingredients
- Lo Mein Noodles: 1 pound (450g) . Fresh or dried are both good. Cook 'em per the package. I prefer fresh, gives it that authentic Lo Mein Takeout feel. A bit of sesame oil makes them extra slippery and delicious. Don’t overcook them and a pro tip, slightly undercook them
- Chicken: 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut into ½-inch (1.25 cm) strips. Quality chicken makes a difference. Look for plump breasts with no weird smells. And don’t even think of using pre-cooked chicken. Fresh is best!.
- Veggies: 1 cup (100g) sliced carrots, 1 cup (100g) sliced bell pepper, 1 cup (50g) sliced mushrooms, 1 cup (100g) shredded cabbage/coleslaw mix, and 2 sliced green onions. Get colorful bell peppers, it looks better.
Seasoning Notes
This Easy Lo Mein Recipe is all about the sauce, right? Soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce (optional), brown sugar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes (optional), and ¼ cup (60 ml) chicken broth.
This combination will have your Lo Mein Recipes taste like something you order from a chinese restaurant.
Don’t have oyster sauce? No worries! Use a bit more soy sauce. Want it spicier? Add extra red pepper flakes.
For a Quick Lo Mein , prep your sauce ahead of time. It saves so much time during the week.
Equipment Needed
Okay, you don't need a fancy wok for this Chicken Lo Mein Recipe . A large pot for boiling the noodles and a large skillet or wok will do the trick.
Measuring cups, spoons, a knife, and a cutting board are vital. You know, the usual suspects.
Honestly, you can make do with what you have. No fancy chef knives are required, just don't use a butter knife.
A cheap non-stick skillet works fine too. Just make sure your skillet or pot is hot before adding the oil.
Don’t forget your appetite.
Now you have all the elements for the Easy Lo Mein Noodles , you can make it a Homemade Lo Mein or add some Vegetable Lo Mein , is up to you!
Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein: Ditch the Takeaway!
Fancy a treat? Seriously, who doesn't love a good Lo Mein Takeout ? But honestly, sometimes you just crave that comforting bowl of Easy Lo Mein Noodles without the guilt (or the questionable ingredients).
This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Easy is your answer! It’s quicker than ordering in, tastier, and you know exactly what's going into it.
Let's get started, shall we? It is reminiscent of your favorite Chinese Takeaway , but homemade
Prep Like a Pro: The Essential Mise en Place
Okay, first things first. Let's get organized. Chop your veggies and measure out your sauces. Honestly, this is the key to a smooth cooking process.
Imagine, everything ready to go, like a well oiled machine. Marinate your chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken strips with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
It gives the chicken a flavour punch. Believe me, you don't want to skip this step. Marinate for at least 10 minutes (while you prep other ingredients).
And, hey, safety first! Keep raw chicken away from everything else.
Lo Mein Noodles: From Packet to Plate
- Cook lo mein noodles according to package directions. This recipe is easy with spaghetti or linguine if you can't find lo mein noodles . Don't overcook them! Slightly al dente is the goal, think Italian pasta.
- Drain well and toss with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. This stops them from sticking and adds a lovely nutty aroma.
The Chicken and Veggie Tango
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium high heat. Add your marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F / 74° C . Nobody wants dodgy chicken! Remove and set aside.
- Add 1 cup sliced carrots and 1 cup sliced bell pepper to the wok and cook for 2- 3 minutes . Then toss in 1 cup sliced mushrooms and 1 cup shredded cabbage and cook another 2- 3 minutes .
- In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (if using), 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), and ¼ cup chicken broth.
The Grand Finale: Stir Fry Noodles Time!
- Add cooked noodles and chicken to the wok with the veggies. Pour over the sauce and toss like mad. You want everything coated in that glorious sauce.
- Cook for 1- 2 minutes , until heated through and the sauce has thickened. That’s it! Garnish with sliced green onions.
Pro Tips for an Amazing Lo Mein
Want to take your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe to the next level? Here's the secret. Don't overcrowd the wok! Trust me, it makes a difference.
Also adjust the sauce. Like it sweeter? Add more brown sugar. Want more zing? A dash more rice vinegar. You know? Plus, you can prep all the ingredients in advance, even the day before.
Hello, Quick Lo Mein . Now, tuck in and enjoy your very own Homemade Lo Mein masterpiece!
Recipe Notes for Your Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein
Alright, you've got the recipe. Now, let's talk about making it yours . Honestly, cooking should be fun, not stressful. So, these are just a few ideas to get you started.
Let's dive in!
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters, right? For this Easy Lo Mein Recipe , I like to pile it high in a bowl. Garnish with plenty of those sliced green onions.
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds? Oh my gosh, yes! For sides, think light and fresh. I love serving Chicken Lo Mein with crispy vegetable spring rolls or a simple stir fried bok choy.
And to drink? Iced green tea is always a winner. It's like having a little slice of your favourite Lo Mein Takeout , but better!
Keep It Fresh: Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Easy Lo Mein Noodles are awesome the next day. Just pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
They'll be good for about 3-4 days. When you're ready to eat, reheat in the microwave. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep them moist.
I wouldn’t recommend freezing Homemade Lo Mein because the lo mein noodles can get a bit mushy.
Make It Your Own: Variations
Want to mix things up? Go for it! For a vegetarian version, just swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh.
Use vegetable broth. Easy peasy. Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce. Boom! Looking for dietary adaptations in your Lo Mein Recipes ? Try using gluten-free stir fry noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free quick lo mein version.
Nutrition Simplified
This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Easy isn't just delicious. It's got some good stuff in it too. You're getting protein from the chicken and fiber from the veggies.
It's all about balance, innit? Each serving contains around 450-550 calories, 30-40g of protein, and 50-60g of carbohydrates, giving you energy without excess fats.
Honestly, don't be scared to experiment. Cooking is all about having fun and finding what you like. This recipe is your starting point, now go and make some magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly are lo mein noodles, and can I use something else if I can't find them?
Lo mein noodles are typically Chinese egg noodles, often made with wheat flour and eggs, giving them a slightly chewy texture. If you're having a bit of a bother finding them at your local supermarket, don't fret! Spaghetti or linguine make perfectly acceptable substitutes just be sure not to overcook them.
They should have a bit of "bite," like a proper al dente pasta.
My lo mein noodles ended up a bit sticky. How can I prevent that next time?
Ah, the dreaded sticky noodle situation! This usually happens when the noodles are overcooked or not rinsed properly. Make sure to cook them al dente, as mentioned before, and give them a good rinse under cold water immediately after draining.
Tossing them with a little sesame oil, as the recipe suggests, helps keep them separated too. Think of it like giving them a little spa treatment after their hot bath!
Can I make this Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and perhaps add some fried tofu or tempeh for protein. To make it vegan, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and double check that your hoisin sauce doesn't contain any animal derived ingredients (some do).
You can always sub the chicken and use plant based chicken alternatives instead.
How long can I store leftover lo mein noodles, and what's the best way to reheat them?
Leftover lo mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either microwave it (add a splash of water to prevent drying out) or stir fry it in a pan with a little oil until heated through. Just give it a good toss to make sure everything is heated evenly.
No one wants a cold bit of noodle hiding in the middle!
I'm watching my sodium intake. Are there any ways to make this lo mein noodles recipe healthier?
Definitely! The biggest sodium culprit is usually soy sauce and oyster sauce. Use low-sodium soy sauce, or even coconut aminos, and skip the oyster sauce altogether, adding a touch more brown sugar for sweetness. Loading up on extra veggies also helps to make it a more balanced meal.
And, of course, portion control is key even the healthiest dishes can pack a punch if you eat too much!
Can I add different vegetables to the lo mein noodles?
Of course! Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand or prefer. Broccoli, snap peas, bean sprouts, or water chestnuts would all be delicious additions. The key is to chop them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Get creative and make it your own; It is a great way to experiment with your favourite vegetables and learn new ways of cooking them!
Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15-25g |
| Fiber | 50-60g |