Chicken Lo Mein Easy & Best Recipe In 20 Min

Chicken Lo Mein Recipe History

Are you tired of ordering takeout every time you crave authentic Chinese noodles?

Our Chicken Lo Mein recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen, with perfectly tender chicken and noodles that have just the right amount of chew. As a culinary instructor specializing in Asian cuisine for over 8 years, I’ve refined this recipe to capture the authentic taste of traditional lo mein while keeping it approachable for home cooks.

Chicken Lo Mein has a rich history dating back centuries in China. The term “lo mein” translates to “tossed noodles,” distinguishing it from “chow mein” which refers to fried noodles. Traditional lo mein originated in Northern China and featured wheat-based noodles tossed with various proteins and vegetables. When Chinese immigrants brought this dish to America in the late 19th century, it evolved to suit Western palates while maintaining its core elements of savory sauces, tender protein, and perfectly cooked noodles.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from selecting the right noodles and chicken cuts to mastering the perfect sauce balance. You’ll also find tips for customizing this versatile dish, storing leftovers, and answering common questions that arise when making Chicken Lo Mein at home.

Why This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe Works

This Chicken Lo Mein recipe stands out from others you might have tried for several compelling reasons:

• Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients available at most standard grocery stores
• Requires just one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor concentration
• Cooks in under 30 minutes from start to finish – perfect for busy weeknights
• Features a balanced sauce that’s neither too salty nor too sweet
• Includes a foolproof technique for preventing soggy or sticky noodles
• Offers flexible vegetable options based on seasonal availability or preferences
• Delivers better flavor than takeout at a fraction of the cost
• Incorporates authentic Chinese cooking techniques simplified for home kitchens
• Creates enough for family dinners with potential leftovers for lunch

The secret to this recipe’s success lies in the cooking sequence – searing the chicken first, then quickly stir-frying vegetables, and finally tossing with pre-cooked noodles and sauce. This method ensures every component maintains its optimal texture while absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Best Noodles for Chicken Lo Mein

Authentic Chicken Lo Mein starts with selecting the proper noodles. Traditional Chinese egg noodles are ideal, as they provide the characteristic chew and texture that defines great lo mein. Look for fresh lo mein noodles in the refrigerated section of Asian markets or well-stocked grocery stores.

If fresh lo mein noodles aren’t available, dried Chinese egg noodles make an excellent substitute. In a pinch, you can also use dried spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine – though the texture will differ slightly from authentic lo mein.

When shopping, avoid rice noodles or very thin varieties like vermicelli, as these won’t provide the substantial texture needed for a proper Chicken Lo Mein.

Best Chicken Cuts for Lo Mein

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully in Chicken Lo Mein because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. For even more tender and juicy results, boneless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative with richer flavor.

The key to perfect chicken in your lo mein is:

• Cutting pieces uniformly (about 1-inch strips) for even cooking
• Slicing against the grain to maximize tenderness
• Marinating briefly (even just 10 minutes) to enhance flavor and moisture

For a budget-friendly option, leftover rotisserie chicken can be incorporated near the end of cooking – simply reduce the cooking time to prevent the meat from becoming tough.

Fresh Vegetables for Optimal Flavor

The beauty of Chicken Lo Mein lies in its versatility regarding vegetables. Traditional options include:

• Carrots (julienned for quick cooking)
• Cabbage (Napa or green)
• Bean sprouts
• Snow peas or sugar snap peas
• Bell peppers (any color)
• Mushrooms (shiitake or button)
• Green onions (scallions)

For best results, select 3-4 vegetables with contrasting colors and textures. Prepare all vegetables before beginning to cook, as the stir-frying process moves quickly.

Ingredients Table & Prep

Main Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

Chicken Prep Essentials

For perfectly tender chicken in your Chicken Lo Mein:

1. Slice Properly: Cut chicken against the grain into thin, even strips (approximately 1/4-inch thick) to ensure tenderness and quick cooking.
2. Quick Marinade: Toss sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon vegetable oil. This simple mixture tenderizes the meat while creating a protective coating that prevents overcooking.
3. Room Temperature: Let marinated chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Sauce Preparation

The signature flavor of Chicken Lo Mein comes from its balanced sauce. To prepare:

1. Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Whisk thoroughly until sugar and cornstarch are completely dissolved.
3. Allow to sit for at least 5 minutes before using to let flavors meld.

The cornstarch serves as a thickening agent, helping the sauce cling to the noodles and ingredients rather than pooling at the bottom of your dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Pre-Cooking Prep

1. Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook noodles according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 1 minute for a perfect al dente texture.
2. Drain and Rinse: Immediately drain noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare Workspace: Arrange all prepped ingredients in order of use. Stir-frying moves quickly, so having everything ready is essential.

Cooking Method

1. Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and let cook undisturbed for 1 minute to develop color. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through. Remove chicken to a clean plate.
2. Cook Aromatics: In the same pan, add remaining oil. Add white parts of green onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables: Add carrots and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add bell peppers and mushrooms, cooking for another 2 minutes. Finally, add cabbage and cook until just wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Combine Elements: Return chicken to the pan. Add drained noodles and sauce mixture. Using tongs, toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until noodles absorb the sauce and everything is well combined.
5. Finish: Sprinkle with green parts of scallions and toss once more. Remove from heat.

Doneness Check

The Chicken Lo Mein is done when:

• Noodles are tender but still have a slight chew
• Chicken pieces reach 165°F (74°C) internal temperature
• Vegetables are crisp-tender, not mushy
• Sauce has thickened slightly and coats the noodles evenly

Resting and Serving

Let the Chicken Lo Mein rest in the pan for 2 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to fully integrate and the sauce to be absorbed properly by the noodles. Serve immediately in warmed bowls.

Nutrition Table

Values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Lo Mein

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook noodles 1 minute less than package directions for optimal texture in the finished dish.
• Maintain High Heat: Keep your wok or pan very hot throughout cooking to achieve the authentic “wok hei” (breath of the wok) flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure ingredients sear rather than steam.
• Cut Ingredients Uniformly: This ensures everything cooks at the same rate, preventing overcooked or undercooked components.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar if needed.

Tool Recommendations

For authentic Chicken Lo Mein, these tools can elevate your results:

• Wok: A 14-inch carbon steel wok is ideal for high-heat cooking and tossing ingredients efficiently.
• Spider Strainer: Perfect for removing noodles from boiling water while retaining their shape.
• Wooden Stir-Fry Spatula: The flat edge is excellent for scraping the wok and tossing ingredients.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for uniform cutting of chicken and vegetables.
• Tongs: Helpful for tossing noodles with other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating

Chicken Lo Mein makes excellent leftovers if stored properly:

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to refresh the noodles. Microwave on 70% power with a damp paper towel covering the dish to prevent drying.
• Freezing: While possible, freezing is not recommended as the texture of the noodles and vegetables will deteriorate.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Chicken Lo Mein

Transform your basic Chicken Lo Mein into a fiery delight:

• Add 1-2 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture
• Include thinly sliced fresh chilis with the aromatics
• Finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes
• Serve with chili oil on the side for customizable heat levels

Protein Substitutions

While chicken is traditional, Chicken Lo Mein can be adapted with various proteins:

• Beef: Thinly sliced flank or sirloin steak
• Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, added in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking
• Tofu: Extra-firm, pressed and cubed, for a vegetarian option
• Combination: Create a “house special” lo mein with a mix of proteins

Regional Flavor Adaptations

Give your Chicken Lo Mein a regional twist:

• Cantonese Style: Increase oyster sauce and add a dash of fish sauce
• Sichuan Inspired: Include Sichuan peppercorns and doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
• Japanese Fusion: Use yakisoba noodles and add a splash of mirin to the sauce
• Korean Influence: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce and garnish with kimchi

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Lo Mein works beautifully as a complete meal on its own, but for a more elaborate spread, consider these pairings:

• Appetizers: Serve with egg rolls, dumplings, or wonton soup to start
• Side Dishes: Steamed broccoli with garlic sauce or simple cucumber salad
• Beverages: Chinese jasmine tea, light lager beer, or a Riesling wine
• Dessert: Fresh fruit like lychee or mandarin oranges, or almond cookies

For a family-style Chinese feast, pair your Chicken Lo Mein with sweet and sour chicken, beef with broccoli, or mapo tofu.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in Chicken Lo Mein?
A: Yes, though fresh vegetables provide better texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before adding to prevent excess moisture.

Q: Is Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free?
A: Traditional Chicken Lo Mein is not gluten-free due to wheat noodles and soy sauce. For a gluten-free version, substitute rice noodles and use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Q: How can I make my Chicken Lo Mein more authentic?
A: Use Chinese egg noodles, dark soy sauce for color, and ensure extremely high heat during cooking. Adding a touch of MSG (if you’re comfortable using it) will also enhance the umami flavor.

Q: My noodles turned out sticky. What went wrong?
A: Sticky noodles typically result from insufficient rinsing after cooking or letting them sit too long before adding to the stir-fry. Always rinse cooked noodles in cold water and toss with a small amount of oil.

Q: Can I prepare components ahead of time?
A: Yes! Slice chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours ahead. Sauce can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Even noodles can be cooked, tossed with oil, and refrigerated a day ahead. Final stir-frying should be done just before serving.

Conclusion

Mastering this Chicken Lo Mein recipe puts the power of authentic Chinese cuisine right at your fingertips. With its perfect balance of tender chicken, al dente noodles, and crisp vegetables all coated in a savory sauce, this dish proves that homemade can surpass takeout in both flavor and satisfaction.

Remember that the key to exceptional Chicken Lo Mein lies in preparation—having all components ready before you begin cooking—and in maintaining high heat throughout the stir-frying process. Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, feel free to customize with your favorite proteins and vegetables.

Don’t be surprised when family and friends start requesting your Chicken Lo Mein instead of ordering in! Join thousands of home cooks who have discovered the joy of creating restaurant-quality Chinese cuisine in their own kitchens.

Ready to expand your Chinese cooking repertoire?

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