Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American dish that offers a delightful mix of tender chicken strips, chewy noodles, and a colorful array of vegetables, all tossed together in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. This dish is a popular choice for takeout, but making it at home allows you to control the ingredients, customize the flavors to your taste, and perhaps even enjoy a healthier version of this beloved dish. Below is a straightforward recipe to help you bring the delicious flavors of Chicken Lo Mein right to your kitchen table.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the Lo Mein:
8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, julienned
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed
1 small onion, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken strips with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to an hour in the refrigerator if you have more time.
Prepare the Noodles:
Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender.
Drain and set aside. If using spaghetti or another type of noodle, follow the same process.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the garlic, carrots, bell pepper, mushrooms, snow peas, and onion. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
Combine and Toss:
Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and chicken broth). Toss everything together over medium heat until the noodles are well coated and the dish is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve:
Transfer the Chicken Lo Mein to a serving dish or individual bowls. Optional garnishes include a sprinkle of sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions, or a drizzle of chili oil for some heat.
Tips and Variations:
Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your preferences. Broccoli, cabbage, and bean sprouts are great additions or substitutions.
Protein: This recipe can easily be adapted to use beef, shrimp, or tofu as the protein for those who prefer an alternative to chicken.
Heat: For those who like it spicy, adding a tablespoon of Sriracha sauce or a few slices of fresh chili to the dish will give it an extra kick.
Homemade Chicken Lo Mein is not only satisfying but also a fun way to explore cooking with different ingredients and flavors. Enjoy the process of creating this dish, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Once you’ve mastered the basic Chicken Lo Mein recipe, the possibilities for customization and experimentation are nearly endless. Here are some additional ideas to enhance your Lo Mein experience:
Experiment with Noodles
While traditional lo mein noodles are the standard choice for this dish, feel free to experiment with different types of noodles based on availability or dietary preferences. Udon, soba, or even whole wheat spaghetti can offer unique textures and flavors. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different noodles may require adjustments.
Play with Sauces
The sauce is a key component of Chicken Lo Mein, providing much of its distinctive flavor.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer a more savory flavor, you might increase the oyster sauce. For a sweeter profile, a bit more sugar can be added. Those watching their sodium intake might look for low-sodium soy sauce options.
Adding a splash of rice vinegar can introduce a slight tanginess that balances the flavors beautifully.
Add a Crunch
For an added texture, consider topping your Lo Mein with something crunchy. Crushed peanuts or cashews can offer a delightful contrast to the soft noodles and tender vegetables.
Even a sprinkle of fried shallots or garlic can add a burst of flavor and crunch that takes the dish to a new level.
Make it Healthier
To make a healthier version of Chicken Lo Mein, you can:
Use whole grain or high-fiber noodles to increase the dish’s fiber content.
Increase the ratio of vegetables to noodles and chicken. This not only boosts the dish’s vitamin, mineral, and fiber content but also adds a variety of colors and textures.
Opt for lean chicken breast and trim any visible fat to reduce the overall fat content.
Use a minimal amount of oil for cooking, or choose a healthier oil like olive oil or avocado oil.
Cooking for Dietary Restrictions
For those with dietary restrictions, Chicken Lo Mein can still be on the menu with a few adjustments:
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and tamari sauce instead of traditional soy sauce.
Vegetarian or Vegan: Substitute the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use a vegetarian oyster sauce or hoisin sauce.
Low Carb: Replace the noodles with spiralized vegetables, such as zucchini or carrot noodles, for a low-carb alternative.
Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to fit different tastes, dietary needs, and whatever ingredients you have on hand. By adjusting the type of noodles, experimenting with the sauce, and playing with the mix of vegetables and proteins, you can create a dish that is uniquely your own. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a way to impress your guests at a dinner party, Chicken Lo Mein is a delicious and satisfying option that won’t disappoint.
