Chicken lo mein is a beloved Chinese takeout dish that many people crave! It’s the perfect combination of tender noodles, juicy marinated chicken, and a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, all drenched in a rich and savory sauce that leaves you wanting more!

Instead of spending your hard-earned money on takeout, why not recreate this iconic dish in the comfort of your home? This chicken lo mein is not just umami-packed; it’s also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Give this a try, and you might find yourself saying goodbye to takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Lo Mein

• Flexible: This recipe is highly adaptable. Use any vegetables you have on hand, and change up the proteins according to your preference.
• Savory, Satisfying Taste: The umami-rich sauces, perfectly tender chicken, and crisp, colorful vegetables make this dish irresistible. It’s simple yet sure to become a new favorite!
• Restaurant-Quality Food at Home: With this recipe, you can create a professional takeout-style meal right in your own kitchen.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish stays delicious even as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken: Thighs offer richer flavor, while breasts are leaner and easier to handle.
• Asian Sauces: A mix of low-sodium soy, oyster, hoisin, and dark soy sauces for depth and umami.
• Cornstarch: To thicken both the marinade and the sauce for a delightful consistency.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a deliciously nutty aroma and flavor to your stir-fry.
• Ground White Pepper: This gives a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Granulated Sugar: Just a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Chicken Broth or Water: To dilute the sauce slightly, making it easier to toss all ingredients together.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a touch of tanginess, brightening the overall flavor.
• Lo Mein Noodles: The ideal choice for soaking up the delicious sauce and providing the perfect bite.
• Fresh Vegetables: Incorporate garlic and ginger for aroma, onion and bell pepper for sweetness, and carrots for crunch. Add snap or snow peas for a fresh bite.
• Mushrooms: Shiitake or button mushrooms will bring a hearty texture and earthy taste.
• Green Onions: A sprinkling adds a mild onion flavor and beautiful color at the end.

How to Make Chicken Lo Mein

While Asian recipes often seem intricate with various steps, this chicken lo mein comes together remarkably quickly. Let’s get cooking!

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, mix together all the marinade ingredients until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing until they are fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

3. Make the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients and set it aside for later.

4. Cook the Lo Mein Noodles

In a large pot of salted, boiling water, cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and toss with a splash of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

5. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in an even layer and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.

6. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the final tablespoon of oil to the skillet, then incorporate minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Next, toss in your vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

7. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Finally, add the cooked noodles and give everything a good toss to combine for an additional minute on the heat.

8. Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and garnish your dish with the green parts of the green onions. For an added touch, sprinkle sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil on top. Enjoy your homemade chicken lo mein!

Tips for the Best Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken lo mein is a straightforward recipe to create, but keep these tips in mind for the best results:

• Prep is Key: Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and prepped before you start cooking to streamline the stir-fry process.
• Uniform Sizes: Cut the chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Smooth Sauce: Ensure the sauce is picked up into a smooth, glossy consistency by whisking thoroughly, particularly to dissolve the cornstarch without lumps.
• Cook in Batches: To achieve even cooking, cook the chicken in a single layer. If you have a lot, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Add Ingredients Gradually: When returning ingredients to the pan, add in stages to integrate the flavors properly.
• Get Creative: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap chicken for alternatives like shrimp, beef, or tofu, and feel free to use any vegetables available to you.
• Tasty Toppings: Enhance your dish with toppings such as sesame seeds, chili flakes, or a bit of chili sauce for a kick. Serve alongside egg rolls or a light salad for a full meal experience!

How to Store Chicken Lo Mein

Your homemade chicken lo mein can be stored just like your favorite takeout!

Storing Leftovers

For the best freshness, store the sauce and noodles separately in airtight containers. Enjoy them within 4 days for the best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, transfer the leftovers to a skillet, along with a splash of water or broth. Stir-fry over medium heat until warmed through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave your chicken lo mein in 30-second intervals for quick reheating.