Name: Easy Chicken Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (quartered); 1/2 piece red pepper (sliced); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha hot sauce; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons hot water; 8 ounces lo mein noodles (fresh or dried); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 pound boneless chicken breast (sliced thin); 1/2 head green cabbage (shredded (about 3 cups)); 1 large carrot (grated); fresh scallions (chopped); sesame seeds

Introduction to Easy Chicken Lo Mein

When you're juggling a demanding job and a busy lifestyle, finding the time to cook can feel nearly impossible. That's where homemade Chicken Lo Mein becomes a game changer for busy professionals. Not only is this dish simple to whip up, clocking in at just 35 minutes from start to finish, but it’s also versatile and endlessly customizable. Add in your favorite veggies or substitute the chicken with tofu for a meatless meal—whatever suits your palate!

Making an easy chicken lo mein at home means you have total control over the ingredients, allowing you to skip the preservatives and excess sodium often found in takeout versions. Plus, you can make enough to enjoy leftovers the next day, minimizing the time spent on meals throughout the week.

If you’re thinking about using a few pantry staples and fresh produce from the local market, you're halfway there! To set the mood and gather ideas, check out these easy family dinner recipes. Trust me, diving into your own kitchen can lead to delightful surprises that keep both your stomach and wallet happy!

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken Lo Mein

To whip up a delicious and authentic easy chicken lo mein, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Here’s what you should gather:

8 ounces lo mein noodles (fresh or dried)
1 pound boneless chicken breast, sliced thin
½ head green cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups)
1 large carrot, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil (plus more for tossing the noodles)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking

These ingredients are the backbone of your lo mein, providing a colorful mix of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor and Nutrition

While the essentials set a great foundation, consider adding optional ingredients to elevate your dish:

Cremini mushrooms, quartered
Red bell pepper, sliced
Grated ginger or garlic for that extra flavor kick
Sriracha hot sauce for a spicy twist
Garnishes like chopped scallions and sesame seeds for a touch of flair

Feel free to mix it up with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand. Personalizing your easy chicken lo mein is part of the fun!

For more inspiration, check out our Easy Family Dinners and explore other delicious noodle recipes.

Step-by-step preparation of Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and there’s something special about bringing a homemade dish to life. With Easy Chicken Lo Mein, you get a taste of comfort that’s also a breeze to prepare. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to making your lo mein shine!

Prep the sriracha roasted veggies (optional)

If you want to elevate your lo mein, adding some roasted veggies can make all the difference. Start by preheating the oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, toss together:

8 ounces quartered cremini mushrooms
½ sliced red pepper
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha hot sauce

Spread the veggies on a baking sheet and let them roast in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until tender and slightly blistered. This adds an incredible depth of flavor to your easy chicken lo mein.

Make the savory sauce

While your veggies are roasting, it’s time to whip together a delicious sauce. In a small bowl, combine:

3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons hot water

Stir until well mixed. This savory concoction will marry all the flavors together beautifully in your lo mein.

Cook the lo mein noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in 8 ounces of lo mein noodles, whether they’re fresh or dried. Typically, you’ll want to cook them for about 4 minutes—just follow the package instructions, as they can vary. Once tender, drain the noodles and toss them with a teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Sauté the chicken

Next up, grab a wok or a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and once it’s hot, toss in 1 pound of thinly sliced boneless chicken breast. Sauté the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently. It’s okay if it seems slightly undercooked; it will finish cooking with the veggies.

Add in the vegetables

Once your chicken is nearly cooked through, mix in ½ head of shredded green cabbage and 1 grated large carrot. Stir this medley until the vegetables begin to wilt and their moisture evaporates, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

Toss in the noodles and sauce

Now, it’s time for the grand finale! Add the cooked noodles to the chicken and veggies, and pour in the savory sauce. Stir well to ensure every noodle is coated in that delicious sauce. If it appears too dry, feel free to add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Serve and enjoy!

Your easy chicken lo mein is finally ready to shine on the dinner table! Serve it up with chopped fresh scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy the melding of flavors—it's sure to be a hit! Don’t forget, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days and reheat beautifully.

For more culinary inspiration, check out Easy Family Dinners or browse through Noodle Recipes. Happy cooking!

Variations on Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Vegetarian Lo Mein Option

If you’re looking for a meatless twist on this classic recipe, simply swap out the chicken for your favorite vegetables or tofu. Ingredients like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work wonderfully. Just sauté them until tender before adding the sauce and noodles. This vegetarian lo mein alternative packs in flavor while keeping it light and fresh!

For more creative vegetarian recipes, check out Green Kitchen Stories.

Gluten-Free Lo Mein Alternative

Craving that delicious lo mein flavor but need to avoid gluten? No problem! Replace traditional lo mein noodles with gluten-free rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just follow the same cooking steps and enjoy this dish without the gluten worry. Don't forget to use gluten-free soy sauce to keep all elements safe and tasty!

Looking for more gluten-free meals? Visit Gluten-Free Goddess.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Tips for Perfect Noodles

To achieve perfect noodles for your easy chicken lo mein, focus on using fresh lo mein noodles when possible; they offer a delightful texture. If using dried noodles, make sure to follow the package directions closely for cooking times. After draining, don’t forget to toss them with a bit of sesame oil to prevent sticking!

Suggestions for Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize your easy chicken lo mein! You can replace chicken breast with protein like tofu, shrimp, or even beef for a different flavor. If you’re short on vegetables, any mix of what you have on hand—such as bell peppers or snap peas—will work beautifully. For a vegetarian option, simply skip the chicken and add extra veggies or perhaps some egg for added texture.

Serving suggestions for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Pairing with Side Dishes

To create a well-rounded meal with your Easy Chicken Lo Mein, consider pairing it with light and refreshing side dishes. Start with a simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar for a crunchy contrast. Alternatively, steamed edamame or a side of crispy spring rolls can add delightful texture and flavor. If you're looking for something heartier, a warm bowl of miso soup complements the noodles beautifully. Each of these sides elevates your meal without overwhelming the deliciousness of the lo mein.

Ideas for Garnishing

Garnishing your Easy Chicken Lo Mein not only enhances its presentation but also boosts the flavor. Top your dish with freshly chopped scallions for that signature kick, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a drizzle of chili oil or a few slices of jalapeño. This simple step not only makes your meal Instagram-worthy but also adds layers of flavor that’ll impress your dinner guests!

Now that you have a few serving suggestions up your sleeve, your Easy Chicken Lo Mein is ready to shine at the dinner table!

For more inspiration on side dishes and garnishing, check out Simply Recipes.

Time Breakdown for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal with minimal fuss, this Easy Chicken Lo Mein fits the bill perfectly! Here’s a quick look at the time commitments involved in making this satisfying dish:

Preparation Time

15 minutes
Gather all your ingredients and get everything ready. It’s a simple process that ensures your cooking goes smoothly!

Cooking Time

20 minutes
This is where the magic happens! From cooking the noodles to stir-frying the chicken and veggies, expect to spend about 20 minutes in the kitchen.

Total Time

35 minutes
In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a delightful dish of Easy Chicken Lo Mein that will impress friends or family. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!

For tips on cooking techniques and more starter recipes, check out this guide on quick weeknight dinners. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

When you're whipping up this easy chicken lo mein, you'll want to know what nutritious benefits you're serving up. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each serving of this savory dish packs about 406 calories—a satisfying choice without going overboard.

Protein

With 42 grams of protein, this meal is a fantastic way to fuel your body, making it perfect for post-workout recovery or a busy workday.

Carbohydrates

You’ll get 24 grams of carbohydrates, providing essential energy to keep you going through the day.

This balance makes easy chicken lo mein not just delicious, but also a nutritious option for your dinner table! For more detailed insights on healthy cooking, check out Healthline.

FAQs about Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Is Chicken Lo Mein healthy?

Absolutely! Easy Chicken Lo Mein can be a nutritious meal option. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, and the fresh veggies add fiber and essential vitamins. By controlling the amount of soy sauce and using whole wheat noodles, you can make it even healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Can I meal prep Chicken Lo Mein?

Yes, meal prepping is easy with Chicken Lo Mein! You can make a big batch and store it in individual containers. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

What are the best noodles to use for Chicken Lo Mein?

For the best results, opt for lo mein noodles, which are soft and chewy. Fresh noodles will give you superior texture, but you can also use dried egg noodles if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package to get them just right. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Easy Chicken Lo Mein

To wrap up, homemade Easy Chicken Lo Mein is a flavorful dish that's surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a quick 35 minutes, you'll enjoy a vibrant meal rich in taste and perfectly textured noodles. Plus, it's a fantastic way to impress friends or kick back after a long day!