When busy days demand a comforting meal without the fuss, this crockpot chicken lo mein recipe comes to the rescue. You’ll love how the crockpot does all the work while you relax or tackle other tasks, delivering tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles infused with savory Asian-inspired flavors.
Whether you’re making dinner for the family or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results every time. Let’s dive into what makes this crockpot chicken lo mein so special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off slow cooking lets flavors meld beautifully with minimal effort.
- Uses simple pantry and fridge staples you likely already have on hand.
- Perfectly tender chicken combined with soft, flavorful noodles and fresh veggies.
- Family-friendly meal that’s great for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein swaps.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make a delicious crockpot chicken lo mein that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
- 8 ounces lo mein or egg noodles
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed and halved
- ½ cup sliced green onions, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours on low
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories (approx.): 370 per serving
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Chicken Lo Mein Recipe You’ll Love
- In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- Place the chicken strips at the bottom of the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them, stirring gently to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 ½ hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Add the shredded carrots, snap peas, and half of the green onions to the crockpot, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for another 20 minutes.
- About 15 minutes before serving, cook the lo mein noodles separately according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry into the crockpot to thicken the sauce. Cook for 5 more minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Add the cooked noodles to the crockpot and gently toss to coat them evenly with the sauce and vegetables.
- Sprinkle with remaining sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving for a fresh, nutty finish.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Don’t skip cooking the noodles separately to avoid them getting mushy in the crockpot.
- Feel free to swap or add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli based on your preference.
- Adjust soy sauce and hoisin quantities to taste if you prefer a saltier or sweeter profile.
- For extra richness, drizzle a little more sesame oil over the finished dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day.
For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts work fine, but they may cook faster and can dry out more easily. Check for doneness earlier and consider reducing cook time slightly.
Should I add the noodles to the crockpot from the start?
It’s best to cook the noodles separately and add them at the end to prevent them from becoming mushy and overcooked during slow cooking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well. Use certified gluten-free noodles or substitute with rice noodles.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a dash of chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking to give it a spicy kick that suits your taste.
