Follow these steps to prepare your homemade chicken lo mein:
- Prep the Ingredients: Slice the chicken breast, onion, bell pepper, and carrots into thin strips. Trim the broccoli florets and snap peas. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Chop the green onions and set everything aside for easy access during cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil together in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips and stir-fry until lightly golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, carrots, red bell pepper, broccoli, and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining a bright, fresh color.
- Add Aromatics: Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the empty side, sautéing for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix it with the vegetables and aromatics. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Add Sauce and Noodles: If using cooked lo mein noodles, add them to the skillet along with your choice of sauce (soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, or a mix). Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Finish and Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top and give the skillet a final toss. Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Serving and Storage
Serve your chicken lo mein hot from the skillet. It pairs beautifully with a light side of steamed rice or extra vegetables for a heartier meal. You can also drizzle a little extra sesame oil for added aroma and flavor.
For storage, allow the lo mein to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if the noodles have dried out.
Tips
- Prep Everything First: Stir-frying is fast, so have all ingredients chopped and ready to go before heating the skillet.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh veggies provide crispness and bright color. Frozen vegetables can be used but may release extra water.
- Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, toss chicken strips with a teaspoon of soy sauce, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of sesame oil for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Control Your Sauce: Start with less sauce and adjust to taste. Lo mein should be flavorful but not soupy.
- High Heat Cooking: Use medium-high heat to achieve a slight sear on the chicken and retain crisp-tender vegetables.
Conclusion
This “Better Than Takeout Chicken Lo Mein” recipe proves that restaurant-quality meals can be made at home with fresh ingredients and simple techniques. Juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory noodles come together in a dish that’s wholesome, satisfying, and customizable to your taste.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests, this recipe is quick to make and bursting with flavor. With just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you can enjoy a dish that rivals any takeout restaurant without the extra sodium or preservatives.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu can be substituted for chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Which noodles are best for lo mein?
Traditional lo mein noodles are wheat-based and slightly chewy. You can also use spaghetti, udon, or egg noodles as alternatives.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use tofu, tempeh, or additional vegetables. Make sure to use vegetarian sauces if needed.
How long does it take to make this dish?
From start to finish, including prep, it takes about 30-35 minutes. Stir-frying is quick, so having everything prepped in advance is key.
Can I freeze leftover chicken lo mein?
Yes, though noodles may become softer when thawed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat gently on the stovetop.