If you’ve ever wished for an easy, slurp-worthy weeknight dinner that tastes better than your favorite Chinese takeout, Chicken Lo Mein is about to make your night. This classic noodle stir-fry is loaded with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory, glossy sauce that clings to every tangle of noodle. Comforting, colorful, and crazy flavorful, Chicken Lo Mein is surprisingly simple to make at home and comes together in just about 30 minutes. Whether you’re a stir-fry newbie or a seasoned home cook, you’ll love how effortlessly this dish delivers on taste and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Lo Mein is in its balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each ingredient stars in its own right, coming together for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing meal. Here’s what makes this dish truly special:
- Lo mein noodles or spaghetti (8 oz): Choose traditional lo mein noodles for authenticity, or spaghetti for easy pantry readiness — either works beautifully for a chewy, slurpable base.
- Chicken breasts (1 pound, boneless & skinless): Slicing the chicken thin ensures quick cooking and super tender bites in every forkful.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons, for chicken): Marinating the chicken with soy sauce adds depth and a savory kick right from the start.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): This little dusting helps lock in juiciness and gives the chicken a silkier texture once it hits the pan.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for getting a beautiful, golden sear on both chicken and veggies without overpowering flavors.
- Red bell pepper (1, thinly sliced): Adds bright color and a gentle sweetness that pops against the savory noodles.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Their sweetness and crunch make every bite extra satisfying.
- Snap peas or snow peas (1 cup): Bring a crisp, fresh snap that instantly elevates the entire dish.
- Green onions (3, sliced): For a burst of zesty freshness and a touch of green to finish.
- For the sauce:
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): The foundation of the classic lo mein sauce — deeply savory without being overwhelming.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds that special umami depth and signature glossy look.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Gives a touch of sweetness and complexity — a little here goes a long way.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): For that unmistakable toasted aroma that’s a must in any noodle stir-fry.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Rounds out the savory flavors with just a hint of caramel sweetness.
- Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Essential for a punchy, aromatic base.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 teaspoon): Brightens everything up and gives subtle warmth to the sauce.
- Chicken broth or water (1/4 cup): Helps all the flavors mingle and creates a silky sauce that coats every noodle.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein
Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Noodles
Start by slicing your chicken breasts thinly across the grain and tossing them in a bowl with soy sauce and cornstarch. This quick marinade ensures every piece turns out juicy and flavorful. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook your noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside — noodles can sit happily while you work on the rest.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat up your largest skillet or wok over medium-high heat and swirl in the vegetable oil. Add the marinated chicken, spreading it out so every piece gets a chance to sear. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest while you crisp up your veggies.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan (no need to wipe out those flavorful brown bits!), toss in the sliced bell pepper, shredded carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until the veggies are crisp-tender and bright. You want them to still have some bite — lo mein is all about texture!
Step 4: Whisk Up the Sauce
While your vegetables are cooking, grab a small bowl and combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chicken broth. Whisk it all together until the sugar dissolves and the sauce looks silky and smooth. This sauce will bring everything together with its savory, sweet, and slightly aromatic kick.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the chicken to the pan with the crisp-tender veggies. Add the drained noodles, then pour your prepared sauce over the top. Using tongs or two wooden spoons, toss everything together so the noodles are evenly coated and the chicken and veggies are well mixed. Let everything stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the dish is piping hot. Scatter green onions over the top, and your Chicken Lo Mein is ready to serve!
How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein
Garnishes
To put the finishing touch on your Chicken Lo Mein, sprinkle plenty of fresh green onions across the top. You can also add an extra drizzle of toasted sesame oil, a handful of toasted sesame seeds, or a few pinches of crushed red pepper for heat if you’re feeling bold. These little accents add irresistible flavor and make your dish look restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
Chicken Lo Mein pairs perfectly with other Asian-inspired sides. Try serving it alongside a crisp cucumber salad, quick pickled veggies, or a simple bowl of steamed edamame. For a heartier spread, crispy spring rolls or potstickers round out the meal beautifully without stealing the spotlight from your noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, serve Chicken Lo Mein in oversized bowls with extra-long chopsticks or in individual takeout-style boxes for a fun, casual dinner. You can also create a noodle bar for family or guests with extra toppings like fresh herbs, peanuts, or chili oil, letting everyone build their own perfect bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, Chicken Lo Mein holds up beautifully in the fridge. Transfer cooled noodles and toppings to an airtight container, and they’ll stay delicious for up to three days. The sauce keeps the noodles moist, making reheats almost as good as fresh.
Freezing
While Chicken Lo Mein isn’t a typical freezer meal, you can certainly stash a batch away for a busy night. Let the dish cool completely, portion into individual containers, and freeze for up to one month. Just know the texture of the noodles and veggies will soften a bit, but the flavor will still shine.
Reheating
Reheating is easy! For best results, warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently until piping hot. The microwave works in a pinch, just be sure to cover the noodles and stir halfway through to avoid cold spots.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of lo mein?
Absolutely! If you can’t find lo mein noodles, regular spaghetti, linguine, or even ramen noodles work well. Choose a noodle with some bite so it holds up to tossing and sauce.
What vegetables go best in Chicken Lo Mein?
Classic additions include bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, broccoli, baby corn, and mushrooms. Feel free to clean out the fridge and swap in whatever crunchy veggies you love or have on hand.
How can I make Chicken Lo Mein spicy?
To add heat, toss in a spoonful of sriracha, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, or a dab of chili garlic sauce either in the stir-fry or as a finishing drizzle on your noodles.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free tamari for the soy sauce, choose gluten-free hoisin and oyster sauces, and use your favorite gluten-free noodles for a version everyone can enjoy.
Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Of course! Swap chicken for thinly sliced beef, shrimp, tofu, or even rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. The method and sauce remain the same for endless possibilities.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Lo Mein is one of those magical dishes that’s endlessly customizable, reliably delicious, and always a hit at the dinner table. Making it at home is faster and tastier than takeout, and every bite is packed with vibrant colors and bold flavor. Give it a try, and I promise this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your weekday rotation!
Print
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Lo Mein recipe that brings the flavors of Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. Tender noodles, savory chicken, and crisp vegetables all tossed in a flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for chicken)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
- 3 green onions, sliced
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Marinate the chicken: Toss chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch.
- Cook the chicken: Brown chicken in a skillet, then remove.
- Stir-fry vegetables: Cook bell pepper, carrots, and snap peas until tender.
- Make the sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients.
- Combine and cook: Return chicken to the pan, add noodles, pour sauce, and stir-fry.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and enjoy hot.
Notes
- You can customize the veggies or use rotisserie chicken.
- For added spice, include sriracha or crushed red pepper.
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