Easy Chicken Lo Mein
This recipe is a breeze to whip up for a satisfying and flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dried lo mein noodles
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snow peas work well)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional, for a richer umami flavor)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking Guide:
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss to coat and marinate for 5 minutes.
- Stir-fry the chicken and vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
- Incorporate the vegetables: Stir in the frozen vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until heated through and slightly softened.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and a few tablespoons of water to create a thin sauce.
- Assemble the lo mein: Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked chicken and noodles to the pan. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- Veggie variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn.
- Protein alternatives: You can substitute the chicken with tofu, shrimp, or pork for a different protein option.
- Sauce customization: For a spicier lo mein, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Leftovers: Store leftover lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through.