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Chicken Lo Mein

This quick chicken lo mein recipe is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something comforting, flavorful, and fast. Tender chicken, chewy lo mein noodles, and crisp vegetables come together in a savory sauce that tastes even better than takeout. It’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or extra seasonings, making it a reliable go-to for weeknight dinners. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving a satisfying bowl of noodles, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and classic Asian-inspired taste make it a must-try meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • Chicken:
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal here. Plan on about 3 to 4 pieces, depending on how many servings you want.
  • Lo Mein Noodles:
  • Either fresh or dried noodles work great. Cook them according to the package directions then set aside until ready to use.
  • Bell Peppers:
  • Go for bright options like red or yellow peppers—they add both sweetness and eye-catching color.
  • Carrots:
  • Thinly sliced carrots bring a subtle crunch and natural sweetness. Pre-cut carrots are totally fine if you’re short on time.
  • Green Onions:
  • Chopped scallions boost flavor fast. Use the whites for cooking and the greens for garnish if you like.
  • Sauce Components
  • Soy Sauce:
  • Low-sodium soy sauce gives you better control over salt without losing depth.
  • Sesame Oil:
  • A little goes a long way—this adds rich nutty flavor, so use sparingly.
  • Garlic:
  • Freshly minced garlic adds bold aroma and punch. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Method
 

Step 1: Prep Everything First

Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Cook the lo mein noodles until just tender, drain well, and set them aside.

    Step 2: Cook the Chicken

    Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add oil, then cook the chicken until golden on the outside and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the pan and slice if needed.

      Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies

      Using the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender but still crisp.

        Step 4: Bring It All Together

        Return the chicken to the pan. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and any extra seasonings you enjoy. Toss everything well until evenly coated and heated through.

          Step 5: Serve Immediately

          Spoon into bowls and enjoy while hot. Add extra soy sauce if desired.

            Notes

            Helpful Tips for Best Results

            • Uniform Cuts: Slice chicken and vegetables evenly so everything cooks at the same pace.
            • Pan Heat Matters: Let ingredients sit at room temperature briefly for better searing.
            • Flavor Boost: Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for up to an hour for deeper flavor.

            Serving Suggestions

            This dish pairs beautifully with:
            • Steamed rice or roasted potatoes for a hearty addition
            • A fresh green salad to balance the savory flavors
            • Crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce

            Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

            Prep Ahead:
             You can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in advance and chop vegetables a day early. Store everything in airtight containers in the fridge.
            Storing Leftovers:
             Let the dish cool completely, then refrigerate in sealed containers for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage—up to 3 months.
            Reheating:
             Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often. Add a splash of water or broth if needed. Microwave reheating also works in short intervals.

            Frequently Asked Questions

            What makes a great chicken lo mein?
             Fresh ingredients, properly cooked noodles, and balanced seasoning are key. Thinly sliced chicken, crisp vegetables, and a well-rounded sauce ensure every bite is flavorful.
            Can I swap the protein?
             Definitely. Shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu all work well. Just cook each protein fully before combining with noodles and vegetables.
            How should leftovers be stored?
             Cool completely before refrigerating in airtight containers. Reheat gently with a bit of moisture to keep the noodles from drying out.

            Final Thoughts

            A successful chicken lo mein comes down to smart prep, bold flavors, and quick cooking. Avoid overcooking the noodles, keep your heat high, and balance the sauce carefully. Feel free to customize with different proteins or vegetables, and prep ahead to save time during busy weeks. With these tips in mind, you’ll have a dependable, crowd-pleasing meal every single time 🍜✨