Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Irresistibly Flavorful Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Everyone Will Love

Noodles dance with vibrant vegetables in this classic chicken lo mein recipe that captures the essence of Chinese-American comfort food.

Each twirling strand carries rich, savory flavors that transport you straight to a bustling street kitchen.

The balanced blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and silky noodles creates a harmony of textures and tastes.

Wok-tossed ingredients mingle with a deeply umami sauce that clings perfectly to every bite.

Home cooks can easily recreate this restaurant-style favorite with simple pantry staples and a few expert techniques.

Fresh ingredients and quick cooking make this dish a weeknight dinner champion.

This lo mein promises a delicious journey through authentic yet accessible cuisine that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Chicken Lo Mein: Reasons to Crave This Saucy Takeout Favorite

  • Whip up a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in less than 30 minutes without complicated techniques or fancy equipment.
  • Easily swap vegetables or protein to match family preferences, making this recipe incredibly versatile and adaptable to different tastes.
  • Master a classic Asian-inspired dish that delivers bold, complex flavors through straightforward cooking steps anyone can follow, even beginner home cooks.
  • Combine protein, vegetables, and noodles in a single pan for a balanced meal that provides multiple food groups and satisfying textures without creating multiple dirty dishes.

Chicken Lo Mein Must-Have Ingredients for Stir-Fry Success

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Tender meat that serves as the main protein for this delicious lo mein dish.
  • Egg Noodles: Soft, chewy noodles that form the foundation of the main course.
Seasoning and Sauce Ingredients:
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the chicken's natural flavor.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty undertone to the entire dish.
  • Soy Sauce: Provides a deep, savory umami flavor to the lo mein.
  • Hoisin Sauce: Brings a sweet and tangy complexity to the sauce.
  • Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth, glossy coating.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
Vegetable and Aromatics:
  • Garlic, Ginger: Aromatic ingredients that provide a bold, zesty base flavor.
  • Mushrooms, Onions, Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas: Colorful vegetables that add texture and nutritional value.
  • Scallions: Fresh garnish that brings a light, crisp finish to the dish.
Cooking Oils:
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for stir-frying and preventing ingredients from sticking to the pan.

Essential Tools to Nail Homemade Chicken Lo Mein

  • Wok or Large Skillet: Essential for stir-frying chicken and vegetables with high, even heat.
  • Medium Mixing Bowls (2): Perfect for seasoning chicken and preparing sauce separately.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for chopping vegetables and scallions.
  • Sharp Knife: Required for slicing vegetables and chicken precisely.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients during cooking.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately measure sesame oil, soy sauce, and other seasonings.
  • Measuring Cup: Useful for measuring chicken broth and sauces.

Step-by-Step Guide to Chicken Lo Mein Perfection

Step 1: Marinate Chicken

Grab a mixing bowl and infuse your chicken with a flavor explosion.

Sprinkle in pepper, salt, and a splash of sesame oil.

Massage the seasonings into the chicken until every piece is beautifully coated.

Let the chicken rest and soak up those amazing flavors.

Step 2: Whip Up Magical Sauce

In another bowl, create your sauce superhero.

Combine:
  • Chicken broth
  • Sesame oil
  • Soy sauce
  • Hoisin sauce
  • Cornstarch

Stir everything until smooth and silky.

Set this flavor powerhouse aside.

Step 3: Sear Chicken to Perfection

Fire up your wok or large pan with vegetable oil.

Toss in the chicken and cook until it turns a gorgeous golden color and is completely cooked through.

The chicken should look juicy and no longer pink inside.

Scoop out the chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Awaken Aromatic Flavors

In the same pan, add garlic and ginger.

Let these ingredients dance and release their incredible fragrance, creating a mouthwatering base for your dish.

Step 5: Vegetable Celebration

Introduce your veggie lineup:
  • Mushrooms
  • Onions
  • Carrots
  • Sugar snap peas

Stir fry these colorful friends until they’re tender but still crisp and vibrant.

Step 6: Bring Everything Together

Return the cooked chicken to the pan.

Add your egg noodles and the dreamy sauce you prepared earlier.

Stir and cook everything together for a few minutes until each ingredient is beautifully coated.

Step 7: Final Flourish

Sprinkle fresh scallions on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Your chicken lo mein is ready to dazzle!

Step 8: Savor the Moment

Dive into your delicious creation and enjoy every single bite of this restaurant-quality meal you’ve just created.

Insider Tips for Restaurant-Style Chicken Lo Mein Every Time

  • Marinate chicken in sesame oil, salt, and pepper for at least 15 minutes to enhance taste and tenderness.
  • Whisk cornstarch thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to noodles.
  • Stir-fry vegetables quickly over high heat to maintain their crisp texture and vibrant colors without becoming mushy.
  • Toss cooked egg noodles with a little oil before adding to the wok to prevent clumping and ensure even sauce distribution.
  • Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat, allowing each person to customize their spice level at the table.

Tasty Twists and Flavor Options for Chicken Lo Mein Lovers

  • Vegetarian Lo Mein: Replace chicken with firm tofu, cubed and pressed. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap egg noodles with rice noodles or zucchini noodles. Use tamari instead of soy sauce to ensure gluten-free compliance.
  • Spicy Asian Fusion: Add sriracha or chili oil to the sauce. Include red pepper flakes and jalapeños for extra heat and complexity.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute noodles with spiralized vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower rice. Reduce cornstarch in sauce to minimize carbohydrates.

Fun Ways to Plate and Serve Chicken Lo Mein

  • Family Feast Delight: Gather everyone around the table and enjoy this comforting lo mein as a shared meal with chopsticks and extra sauce on the side.
  • Lunch Prep Champion: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for a delicious work or school lunch that stays fresh and tasty throughout the day.
  • Restaurant-Style Presentation: Plate the lo mein in wide, shallow bowls and sprinkle extra scallions on top for a professional restaurant-quality appearance that impresses guests.
  • Protein Power-Up: Add extra protein like tofu, shrimp, or beef to customize the dish and make it more filling for hungry appetites.

How to Keep Chicken Lo Mein Fresh and Ready

  • Store leftover chicken lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warm.
  • Warm the lo mein in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir gently for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

  • What are the key flavors in this Chicken Lo Mein recipe?

The key flavors come from sesame oil, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger, which create a rich, savory Asian-inspired taste profile that balances sweet and umami notes.

  • Is this recipe considered healthy?

This Chicken Lo Mein can be a balanced meal with lean protein from chicken, multiple vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and sugar snap peas, providing essential nutrients and a good mix of protein and vegetables.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free, and substitute egg noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free noodle alternatives to make the dish gluten-free.

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Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Chicken Lo Mein Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory chicken lo mein delivers a classic Chinese noodle dish packed with protein and vegetables. Hearty ingredients combine for a quick, satisfying meal you can enjoy at home with minimal preparation.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 g) chicken breast, sliced

Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Vegetables and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) carrot, sliced
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) sugar snap peas, halved
  • 4 servings cooked egg noodles
  • 1 tablespoon scallions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken with pepper, salt, and sesame oil in a medium bowl, ensuring even coating. Let the flavors infuse for 10 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Whisk chicken broth, remaining sesame oil, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch in a separate bowl to create a smooth, glossy sauce.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sauté chicken for 3-4 minutes, cooking until completely opaque and lightly golden.
  4. Remove chicken, then quickly sauté minced garlic and ginger in the same pan until aromatic, approximately 30 seconds.
  5. Introduce mushrooms, onions, carrots, and sugar snap peas to the pan. Stir fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
  6. Reintegrate cooked chicken into the vegetable mixture, then add egg noodles and prepared sauce. Toss continuously for 2-3 minutes, ensuring every ingredient is evenly glazed.
  7. Transfer to serving plates, garnish with fresh scallions for a vibrant finish and added flavor complexity.
  8. Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the harmonious blend of textures and seasonings.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, ideally 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use high heat and quick movements when stir-frying to maintain vegetable crispness and prevent overcooking.
  • Swap egg noodles with gluten-free or whole wheat options for dietary preferences and added nutrition.
  • Prep all ingredients beforehand to ensure smooth, fast cooking process and prevent burning or uneven cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Stir Fry
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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