Easy Chicken Lo Mein Quick and Flavorful Recipe

November 13, 2025May 30, 2025 by Chef Luca

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

– 8 oz egg noodles (or Lo Mein noodles)

– 2 tablespoons sesame oil

– 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced

– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snow peas)

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

– ¼ cup soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional for added flavor)

– 1 tablespoon sugar

– 2 green onions, chopped

– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Ingredient Measurements

When making Easy Chicken Lo Mein, each ingredient plays a key role. Here are the measurements you need:

– Egg noodles: 8 oz gives a perfect base.

– Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons adds rich flavor.

– Chicken breast: 1 pound offers protein and heartiness.

– Mixed vegetables: 2 cups keep it colorful and healthy.

– Garlic: 3 cloves bring aroma and depth.

– Ginger: 1 tablespoon adds warmth and spice.

– Soy sauce: ¼ cup brings umami and saltiness.

– Oyster sauce: 2 tablespoons (if used) enhances flavor complexity.

– Sugar: 1 tablespoon balances the salt.

– Green onions: 2 chopped for fresh brightness.

– Sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon for a lovely finish.

Suggested Substitutions for Ingredients

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some swaps you can use:

– Noodles: Use rice noodles or even spaghetti if needed.

– Sesame oil: Olive oil or vegetable oil works too.

– Chicken: Try tofu or shrimp for a different protein.

– Mixed vegetables: Any fresh or frozen veggies you like.

– Garlic: Garlic powder can work in a pinch.

– Ginger: Ground ginger can substitute fresh ginger.

– Soy sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

– Oyster sauce: A bit more soy sauce can replace it.

– Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be a sweet substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Noodles

First, fill a big pot with water. Bring it to a boil. Add 8 oz of egg noodles. Cook them as the package says until they are al dente. This means they should be firm but not hard. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Stir-frying the Chicken

Next, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok. Set the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of thinly sliced chicken breast. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and fully cooked. After that, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same skillet, pour in another tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in 2 cups of mixed vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snow peas. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger too. Stir-fry everything for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp.

Combining Ingredients and Noodles

Now, bring the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Pour in ¼ cup of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce if you want more flavor. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar as well. Mix everything well and heat it through.

Finishing Touches

Finally, gently fold in the cooked noodles. Make sure every noodle gets coated with sauce and ingredients. Mix for about 2-3 minutes. After this, take it off the heat. Add 2 chopped green onions and mix lightly. Serve the chicken lo mein hot, and don’t forget to sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds on top for that perfect finish!

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Perfect Chicken Lo Mein

To make your chicken lo mein shine, follow these tips:

– Use fresh ingredients. Fresh veggies pack more flavor.

– Cook noodles just right. Aim for al dente. They should be firm, not mushy.

– Preheat your skillet. This step helps to sear the chicken well.

– Don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed. This keeps everything crisp.

– Add sauces at the right time. Mix in soy sauce and oyster sauce after veggies. This keeps flavors bright.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes:

– Using overcooked noodles. They can turn mushy quickly.

– Not seasoning enough. A pinch of salt can elevate your dish.

– Skipping the garlic and ginger. These add depth and aroma.

– Forgetting to garnish. Green onions and sesame seeds add nice crunch.

– Not tasting as you go. Adjust flavors to your liking before serving.

Optimal Cooking Techniques

Here are some techniques to enhance your cooking:

– Stir-fry quickly. Use high heat and keep stirring for even cooking.

– Use a wok if you have one. It allows for better heat distribution.

– Let chicken rest. After cooking, allow it to rest briefly before slicing. This keeps it juicy.

– Fold noodles gently. This prevents breakage and keeps them whole.

– Finish with a splash of sesame oil. This adds a rich, nutty flavor at the end.

By using these tips and tricks, you can create a chicken lo mein that is both quick and bursting with flavor!

Variations

Vegetarian Lo Mein Options

You can easily make a vegetarian lo mein. Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Both options add great texture. Use the same amount you would for chicken. For a veggie boost, add more mixed vegetables like mushrooms or bean sprouts. This change keeps your meal light and tasty.

Different Protein Additions

If you want to change up the protein, try shrimp or beef. Shrimp cooks quickly, so add it for the last few minutes of stir-frying. Beef should be thinly sliced and can be added with the chicken. You can even mix proteins for more flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times to ensure everything is cooked right.

Sauce Variations for Added Flavor

You can mix up the sauce to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add chili paste or sriracha. For a sweeter touch, add more sugar or some honey. You can also try adding rice vinegar for tanginess. Experiment with different sauces like hoisin or teriyaki to find your favorite.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your chicken lo mein fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool down first. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your chicken lo mein, use the stove or microwave. On the stove, add a splash of water to a pan. Heat over medium until warm, stirring often. In the microwave, cover the dish with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing Chicken Lo Mein

To freeze chicken lo mein, pack it in freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can. Label the bags with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free?

To make Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free, swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce. You can also use rice noodles or gluten-free egg noodles. Both options taste great. Always check labels for any hidden gluten.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, you can use other types of noodles. Soba noodles or rice noodles work well. Just cook them according to the package instructions. They will add a unique flavor and texture to your dish.

Is Chicken Lo Mein healthy?

Chicken Lo Mein can be healthy, especially if you use fresh veggies. The chicken provides protein, while the mixed vegetables add vitamins. You can also control the amount of sauce and oil to keep it lighter.

How do I make Chicken Lo Mein spicier?

To spice up Chicken Lo Mein, add chili paste or red pepper flakes. You can mix these into the sauce for an extra kick. Fresh sliced chili peppers also add heat and color. Adjust the spice to your liking!

This blog post detailed how to make Chicken Lo Mein. We covered the full list of ingredients and their measurements, along with easy substitutions. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions for perfect noodles, chicken, and veggies. Tips helped avoid common mistakes, while variations showed how to customize your dish. Finally, I explained how to store and reheat leftovers effectively.

In short, you now have all the tools to enjoy Chicken Lo Mein at home. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t be afraid to experimen