Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

If there were ever a meal that truly proves how comforting, flavorful, and vibrant noodles can be, it has to be Easy Chicken Lo Mein. This recipe brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly chewy noodles, all slicked in a glossy, mouthwatering sauce that hits every craveable note – salty, savory, and just a touch sweet. Made in just 30 minutes and with easy-to-find ingredients, this is the kind of dish you’ll want to whip up again and again, whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a special Saturday treat.

Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these ingredients – every single one plays a starring role in Easy Chicken Lo Mein. They come together to create bold flavors, gorgeous color, and irresistible texture that truly make this recipe shine.

  • Lo mein noodles (8 ounces): Fresh or dried, or even regular spaghetti in a pinch – these soak up all the delicious sauce and give that classic chewy bite.
  • Sesame oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Toasty and nutty, sesame oil infuses the whole dish with a signature warmth.
  • Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 pound, sliced thin): Slicing thin lets the chicken cook quickly and stay juicy.
  • Mixed vegetables (2 cups): Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or broccoli add crunch, color, and a little sweetness – use your favorites or whatever’s in the fridge.
  • Green onions (3, sliced): These bring freshness and a pretty finishing touch both in the stir-fry and as a garnish.
  • Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds a pungent, irresistible aroma that’s essential in any good stir-fry.
  • Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): That little bit of zing lifts the flavors and wakes everything up.
  • Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): Salty and umami-rich, it’s the backbone of the signature lo mein sauce.
  • Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and subtle sweetness – an absolute must for authentic flavor.
  • Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): This bold, sweet-salty sauce contributes complexity and shine to the final dish.
  • Honey or brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Just a touch of sweetness balances all the savory notes in the sauce.
  • Cornstarch mixed with water (1 teaspoon + 1 tablespoon water, optional): Stir this in if you want a lusciously thick sauce that clings to every noodle.

How to Make Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling your lo mein noodles (or spaghetti if you’re improvising!) according to package directions. Once they’re just tender, drain them well and toss with a drizzle of sesame oil. Not only does this keep them from sticking, but it also adds early layers of flavor, priming the noodles to soak up all the saucy goodness later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat up the rest of your sesame oil in a big skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thin-sliced chicken and let it sizzle until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. This should only take about 5–6 minutes thanks to the thin slices. Once the chicken is done, take it out and keep it handy – it’s making a return soon!

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies

In that same pan (no need to wash – embrace those flavorful brown bits!), add all your chopped veggies. Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes, just until they’re crisp-tender and vibrantly colored. Toss in your minced garlic and grated ginger for the final 30 seconds. The fragrance is incredible and truly signals that something delicious is about to happen.

Step 4: Return the Chicken and Combine

Add your cooked chicken right back into the pan with the veggies. This allows it to soak up some of that garlicky, gingery steam and get fully reacquainted with all the flavors.

Step 5: Mix the Sauce and Finish

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and your sweetener (honey or brown sugar). Pour it straight into the skillet along with your prepared noodles. Toss everything together until the sauce bathes every bite and everything is heated through. If you love a clingy noodle, add the optional cornstarch slurry now and cook for another minute or two until the sauce thickens up. Finish with a flurry of green onions, and your Easy Chicken Lo Mein is ready for its debut!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

The fun doesn’t stop at the noodles! Top your Easy Chicken Lo Mein with extra green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a quick drizzle of chili oil if you like heat. These garnishes offer both crunch and color, taking your plate from “weeknight supper” to “takeout-at-home feast.”

Side Dishes

Easy Chicken Lo Mein is fantastic on its own, but if you want a complete spread, serve it alongside simple steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, or even just a cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. A light soup, like hot and sour or egg drop, pairs beautifully with the noodles for a comforting combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of flair, try serving your Easy Chicken Lo Mein in large noodle bowls with chopsticks perched on top. For a family meal, bring the skillet straight to the table for a super-casual, help-yourself vibe. Want to make it a showstopper? Pile the noodles high on a platter and top with extra vibrant vegetables and fresh herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, pack the noodles into an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days. In fact, the flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making day-two Easy Chicken Lo Mein especially irresistible!

Freezing

Want to make a double batch for quick dinners later? Easy Chicken Lo Mein freezes surprisingly well. Simply portion cooled noodles into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your noodles in the microwave with a splash of water to help loosen the sauce and prevent dryness, or heat on the stovetop over medium with a bit of extra soy sauce. Stir occasionally until everything is hot and glossy. The noodles will be just as satisfying as the day they were made.

FAQs

Can I use other types of protein in Easy Chicken Lo Mein?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly flexible. Try shrimp, thinly sliced beef, pork, or even cubes of tofu for a vegetarian spin. Simply adjust the cooking time according to your protein – just make sure it’s cooked through before adding the sauce and noodles.

What vegetables work best in Easy Chicken Lo Mein?

The beauty of this dish is that you can use almost any veggie you love or have on hand. Bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, and baby corn are all fantastic choices. Aim for a variety of colors and textures for the most appetizing bowl!

Is it okay to use spaghetti instead of lo mein noodles?

Yes! While traditional lo mein noodles give the most authentic texture, spaghetti works wonderfully and is easy to find. Just cook it until it’s barely tender (al dente), so it holds up well when tossed with the sauce and other ingredients.

How can I make the sauce a bit spicier?

If you love a little heat, add a squirt of Sriracha, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, or even chili-garlic sauce to your lo mein sauce. You can also finish your bowl with chili oil for a subtle, smoky kick.

Can I make Easy Chicken Lo Mein gluten free?

Yes, with a few swaps! Use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce, and choose gluten-free noodles (like rice noodles or certain brands of gluten-free spaghetti). Make sure your hoisin and oyster sauces are gluten free as well, and the dish will work wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

When you need a meal that’s vibrant, filling, and fast, Easy Chicken Lo Mein is sure to become your new kitchen hero. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner but satisfying enough to cure any takeout craving. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a forever favorite in so many happy kitchens!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 29 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Chicken Lo Mein recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces come together to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Lo Mein:

  • 8 ounces lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil (divided)

For the Chicken Stir-Fry:

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced thin)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or broccoli)
  • 3 green onions (sliced)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)

For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to package directions. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon sesame oil.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, cook the chicken slices until golden brown, then set aside.
  3. Stir-Fry Vegetables: Cook mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger until tender. Add back the chicken.
  4. Make the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and honey. Add to the skillet with noodles and cook until heated through.
  5. Finish and Serve: Garnish with green onions and any desired toppings before serving hot.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, drizzle with chili oil or sesame seeds before serving.
  • This dish can be customized with shrimp, beef, or tofu.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Chinese-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star