Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein has it all tender, juicy chicken, al dente noodles, and a flavorful, slightly sweet sauce. The garlic is the star of the show, infusing the dish with a robust and aromatic flavor. Plus, the crispy vegetables provide a nice crunch that perfectly complements the noodles. The dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight meal, and it’s easily customizable with whatever vegetables or protein you have on hand. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil

For the Lo Mein:

• 8 oz (225g) lo mein noodles or spaghetti
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or peanut oil)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (the star of the dish!)
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
• 3 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth (or water), and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
3. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until it is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic (and grated ginger, if using), and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas (or snow peas) and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Combine the Noodles and Chicken: Add the cooked noodles and chicken back into the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Lo Mein: Add a drizzle of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Different Vegetables: Feel free to switch up the vegetables depending on what you have on hand mushrooms, bok choy, or zucchini all work well in this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir occasionally to avoid drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with other types of noodles like soba, udon, or even spaghetti if you prefer.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute regular noodles with gluten-free noodles.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They are more flavorful and tend to stay juicier when cooked.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the lo mein?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, or even baby corn to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be golden brown and no longer pink inside. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer it should reach 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a stir before using.

7. Can I make this dish spicier?

If you like spicy food, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.

8. Can I freeze this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the lo mein in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat by adding a little water or broth to the noodles.

9. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover or pre-cooked chicken, but you’ll want to add it to the pan later to avoid overcooking it.

10. Can I make this recipe with shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp would be a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. Just cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something deliciously comforting. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein, making it as versatile as it is delicious!

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