If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly, this Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is exactly what you need. It balances tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly sauced noodles in a way that’s satisfyingly delicious without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding friends, this dish offers a vivid combination of textures and savory notes that will make everyone ask for seconds. Plus, it’s straightforward enough that even novice cooks can nail it every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, fresh ingredients that each bring a unique touch to the final dish. From the tender chicken to the vibrant veggies and the deeply flavorful sauce, every component plays an essential role.
- 8 oz lo mein noodles: The soft, chewy base that soaks up all the amazing sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced: Provides lean protein and cooks quickly for a tender bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of fragrant, savory aroma that wakes up the palate.
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings sweetness and a crunchy texture for contrast.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Offers vibrant color and a satisfying crunch packed with nutrients.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty umami backbone of the sauce.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds depth with its rich, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, nutty essence that’s signature to Asian-inspired dishes.
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder: Gives a warm, subtle spicy kick.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to keep things interesting.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by preparing your lo mein noodles according to the package directions — it usually only takes a few minutes. Once cooked, drain them well to avoid sogginess and set aside. This step lays the groundwork for a dish that should have noodles that are springy and ready to absorb all those savory flavors coming next.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your thinly sliced chicken breasts. Cook until you see no pink remaining, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about a minute, enough to release its aroma without burning. This step is where the foundation of flavor really builds up.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
To the chicken and garlic, add your bell pepper slices and broccoli florets. Stir everything around and cook until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, lending that perfect bite to complement the soft noodles and juicy chicken.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, ginger powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour this delectable combination over your chicken and veggies in the skillet, letting the sauce simmer and coat everything evenly. The aroma here is a sure sign you’re onto something great.
Step 5: Toss with Noodles
Add the cooked lo mein noodles back into the skillet. With gentle but thorough tossing, combine all the ingredients until every strand is deliciously coated with that rich sauce. This step brings together the entire dish in harmony.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well mixed and heated through, it’s time to dish out your Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe. Serve it hot and watch as it quickly disappears from the table!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. Sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds over the top for a burst of freshness and subtle crunch. A small wedge of lime on the side can add a bright zing if you like a little citrus kick.
Side Dishes
Pair Easy Chicken Lo Mein with light, complementary sides such as steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or even a simple bowl of miso soup. These sides keep the meal balanced while adding variety to your dinner plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the lo mein in individual bowls topped with fresh herbs or crushed peanuts for texture. Alternatively, plate it with edible flowers or vibrant microgreens to impress guests with a colorful, restaurant-quality presentation that will have everyone eager to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow your leftover Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or a ready-made dinner later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, it freezes well. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables might change slightly after thawing, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your Easy Chicken Lo Mein in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too dry. This will rejuvenate the noodles and soften the vegetables, making your leftovers taste almost as good as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of lo mein?
Absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional and ideal for their texture, you can substitute with spaghetti, ramen noodles, or even rice noodles if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and snap peas. You can also substitute oyster sauce with vegetarian stir-fry sauce or more soy sauce to keep it flavorful.
How spicy is this recipe?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that enhances the dish without overpowering it. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference or omit it if you want a milder flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead by slicing the chicken and vegetables and mixing the sauce. Cook and combine everything just before mealtime for the freshest results and best texture.
What’s the best way to cut the vegetables for lo mein?
Thin slices for the bell pepper and bite-size florets for the broccoli work best to ensure even cooking and that satisfying tender-crisp texture that keeps each bite exciting.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is a fantastic dish to have in your recipe arsenal when you want a quick, flavorful meal that doesn’t skimp on comfort or personality. It’s approachable, utterly delicious, and sure to become a favorite for you and anyone lucky enough to be at your table. Don’t hesitate—grab those simple ingredients and start cooking this weekend!
Print
Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Easy Chicken Lo Mein is a quick and flavorful stir-fry noodle dish featuring tender chicken breast, crisp bell peppers, and broccoli tossed in a savory soy and oyster sauce blend. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that combines vibrant vegetables with hearty noodles and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Noodles and Protein
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add the thinly sliced chicken breasts. Cook until the chicken is completely cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the thinly sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets to the skillet with the chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes, ensuring they retain some crunch.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, ginger powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful sauce.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Add the cooked noodles on top, then toss everything together gently but thoroughly until the noodles, vegetables, and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce and heated through.
- Serve: Serve the Easy Chicken Lo Mein hot straight from the skillet for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti or other egg noodles if unavailable.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables and use vegetarian oyster sauce.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To enhance flavor, fresh ginger can be used instead of ginger powder if preferred.
