Name: Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz lo mein noodles (fresh or dried); 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 carrots, thinly sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

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This chicken lo mein recipe delivers everything you love about Chinese takeout — tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy noodles tossed in a savory garlic-soy sauce. It’s quick, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Each forkful is coated with glossy sauce that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and umami notes. Ready in under 35 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight meal for busy families or anyone craving homemade Asian-style comfort food. The best part? It’s simple, customizable, and uses ingredients you already have in your pantry. If you love comforting classics like Baked Melt In Your Mouth Chicken, this easy lo mein is about to become your next favorite dinner.

The Appeal of Chicken Lo Mein

Why This Recipe Works

What makes chicken lo mein irresistible is its combination of textures and flavors. The noodles are perfectly tender yet slightly chewy, the chicken is juicy and golden, and the vegetables stay crisp. The sauce brings it all together with a glossy finish that clings beautifully to every bite. It’s restaurant-quality lo mein without the extra oil or sodium, made right in your kitchen.

A Healthy Alternative to Takeout

Homemade lo mein means fewer additives, less oil, and complete control over seasoning. You can adjust the salt, add heat, or mix in extra vegetables for more fiber and color. Plus, using lean chicken breast or thigh keeps it light yet satisfying. It’s comfort food that tastes indulgent but still fits a balanced diet.

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Preparing the Chicken

Marinate for Flavor

For tender, flavorful chicken, start by marinating sliced chicken breasts in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil. Even 30 minutes of marinating helps infuse rich umami flavor and ensures the meat stays juicy during cooking. For extra tenderness, add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the marinade.

Searing the Chicken

Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for six to eight minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. The goal is to achieve light caramelization while keeping the inside moist. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm while you prepare the vegetables.

Cooking the Noodles

Choosing the Best Noodles

Traditional lo mein noodles are made from wheat flour and have a soft yet springy texture that holds sauce beautifully. You can find them fresh or dried in most grocery stores. If you can’t find lo mein noodles, spaghetti or ramen works just as well. The key is to cook them until al dente — firm but not mushy.

Keeping Noodles from Sticking

After boiling, drain the noodles and toss them in a teaspoon of sesame oil. This prevents them from clumping together while you finish the other ingredients. Set them aside — they’ll absorb the sauce perfectly once everything comes together in the pan.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

Selecting Fresh Ingredients

Lo mein’s charm lies in its bright, crisp vegetables. This recipe uses red and yellow bell peppers, carrots, and green onions for color and texture. You can easily substitute or add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for variety. Freshness is key — crisp vegetables make the dish vibrant and satisfying.

The Perfect Stir-Fry Technique

Heat a tablespoon of oil in the same pan used for the chicken. Stir-fry the vegetables over high heat for three to four minutes until tender-crisp. Keep them moving constantly so they stay bright and slightly crunchy. Avoid overcooking — the vegetables should retain their shape and bite to contrast with the noodles.

Creating the Signature Sauce

Building Flavor Layers

The sauce is what makes this chicken lo mein recipe so addictive. Whisk together low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of rice vinegar for balance. Add minced garlic for depth and a small pinch of sugar to mellow out the saltiness. For spice lovers, include a few drops of sriracha or red pepper flakes.

Balancing Texture and Taste

The sauce should be smooth and slightly thick but not sticky. Taste it before adding to the pan — it should have a perfect blend of savory and sweet. If it’s too salty, dilute with a tablespoon of water or chicken broth. If you prefer it sweeter, stir in a bit more honey or brown sugar.

Bringing It All Together

Combining the Ingredients

Now it’s time to assemble everything. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce and toss well. Then add the noodles and use tongs to mix until everything is evenly coated. The noodles should glisten and soak up all the savory flavor.

Finishing Touches

Let the lo mein cook for another two minutes on medium heat so the sauce thickens slightly. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving. The aroma is irresistible — fragrant garlic, toasted sesame, and savory soy meld perfectly. Serve it hot and enjoy the authentic taste of Chinese-inspired comfort food.

Serving Ideas

A Complete Meal

This chicken lo mein is a full meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed dumplings, egg rolls, or miso soup. For freshness, serve it with a cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar. You can also serve smaller portions as a side dish alongside grilled meats or Asian-style skewers.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Chicken lo mein stores and reheats well, making it great for weekly meal prep. Divide it into containers and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water to revive the sauce. The flavors deepen over time, making the leftovers even better.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Customizing Your Lo Mein

You can adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken, or make it vegetarian by skipping meat altogether. You can even make it gluten-free by using rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Getting the Texture Right

The best lo mein has balance — tender noodles, crisp vegetables, and juicy chicken. Avoid overcooking the noodles and vegetables to keep that satisfying bite. Stir-frying at high heat ensures everything stays fresh and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it at the end when combining everything to warm it through.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use tofu, tempeh, or just extra vegetables for a plant-based version.

What’s the difference between lo mein and chow mein?
Lo mein uses softer, boiled noodles tossed in sauce, while chow mein noodles are crispier from pan-frying.

Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, you can mix the sauce ingredients up to three days in advance and refrigerate them.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water.

Conclusion

This chicken lo mein recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again. With juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and chewy noodles coated in a glossy garlic-soy sauce, it captures everything you love about classic Chinese takeout — minus the guilt. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for busy nights or casual family dinners. Once you try it, you’ll skip takeout and enjoy making this irresistible dish right at home.

Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

The Appeal of Chicken Lo Mein

Why This Recipe Works

A Healthy Alternative to Takeout