Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese dish that has made its way into many homes and hearts around the world. This dish combines tender chicken, a medley of colorful vegetables, and soft noodles tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a perfect example of comfort food that’s both delicious and satisfying. I remember the first time I had Chicken Lo Mein at a local Chinese restaurant; the flavors were so rich and well-balanced that I was instantly hooked. Since then, I’ve loved recreating this dish at home, bringing those wonderful flavors to my kitchen.
Ingredients
8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup shredded cabbage
1 carrot, julienned
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. This will be used to cook the noodles.
Cook the Noodles: Add the lo mein noodles or spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
Drain and Rinse: Once the noodles are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the noodles aside. This step helps to keep the noodles from sticking together and ensures they have a nice texture when added to the stir-fry.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Mix well to combine.
Slice the Chicken: Thinly slice the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. This step can be done ahead of time and left in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat the Skillet: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. A wok is ideal for this dish because its shape allows for even cooking and easy tossing of the ingredients.
Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This initial stir-frying seals in the chicken’s juices, making it tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
Heat the Oil: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Add Aromatics: Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step releases the essential oils from the garlic and ginger, infusing the oil with flavor.
Add Vegetables: Add the sliced bell pepper, mushrooms, shredded cabbage, and julienned carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. The vegetables should be cooked but still have a bit of crunch to them.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return Chicken to Skillet: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables.
Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro if desired. These garnishes add a fresh flavor and a nice visual appeal to the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Proteins: Substitute the chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, omit the chicken and use tofu or additional vegetables. Replace oyster sauce with a vegetarian alternative.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Substitute lo mein noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles.
Spice Level: Add a bit of chili sauce or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy. This is a great way to use up any extra vegetables you have on hand.
Conclusion
Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile and delicious dish that brings the flavors of a Chinese takeout favorite to your home kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory noodles all tossed in a flavorful sauce makes for a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve a delicious result, while the variations allow for customization to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its balance of flavors and textures, from the savory and slightly sweet sauce to the crisp-tender vegetables and tender chicken. The dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner at home.
In summary, Chicken Lo Mein is an enjoyable and rewarding dish to make and eat. It offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, follow these detailed instructions, and enjoy a delightful homemade Chicken Lo Mein that rivals your favorite takeout.