Name: Easy Chicken Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, quartered; 1/2 piece red pepper, sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha hot sauce; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons hot water; 8 ounces lo mein noodles, fresh or dried; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 pound boneless chicken breast, sliced thin; 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups); 1 large carrot, grated; Fresh scallions, chopped; Sesame seeds

Introduction to Easy Chicken Lo Mein

If you're searching for a quick, nutritious meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than easy chicken lo mein. This classic Chinese dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy noodles, all tossed in a savory sauce that’s downright addictive.

What is Chicken Lo Mein and Why Is It a Great Choice for Young Professionals?

Lo mein, at its core, features soft wheat noodles stir-fried with a variety of ingredients, and easy chicken lo mein is no exception. The great thing about this dish is its versatility; you can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand or even swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Perfect for busy young professionals, this meal can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Not only is it quick, but it also offers a one-pan solution, minimizing cleanup time—something many of us under constant time pressure greatly appreciate. Plus, with the inclusion of veggies like cabbage and carrots, you can sneak in those essential nutrients without sacrificing taste. If you're keen on healthy recipes, check out more ideas at Simply Recipes for inspiration.

Embrace the simplicity and flavor of easy chicken lo mein—your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Fresh Ingredients for the Main Dish

To whip up a delicious Easy Chicken Lo Mein, start with these fresh essentials:

8 ounces of lo mein noodles: Fresh or dried will work wonderfully.
1 pound of boneless chicken breast: Thinly sliced to ensure quick cooking.
½ head of green cabbage: Shredded to add crunch.
1 large carrot: Grated for a touch of sweetness.
A sprinkle of fresh scallions and sesame seeds for garnish will give your dish that professional flair!

Optional: Ingredients for Sriracha Roasted Veggies

If you want to elevate your meal, consider adding some roasted veggies! You’ll need:

8 ounces of cremini mushrooms, quartered
½ red pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
1 to 2 teaspoons of Sriracha hot sauce for that spicy kick.

Essential Sauces for Flavor

No Easy Chicken Lo Mein is complete without a punch of flavor from the sauces! You'll need:

3 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons of sesame oil
2 tablespoons of hot water to bring everything together.

This perfect combination transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! If you're eager to learn more about cooking techniques, you might find valuable tips at Serious Eats.

Preparing Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Making easy chicken lo mein at home is an exciting culinary adventure that combines flavorful chicken, fresh veggies, and savory noodles. With a little preparation, you can create this restaurant-quality dish in no time. Let’s dive into the steps!

Roast the Optional Sriracha Veggies

If you're looking to elevate your lo mein, consider roasting some sriracha veggies. Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, toss together 8 ounces of quartered cremini mushrooms and ½ sliced red pepper with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 1 to 2 teaspoons of sriracha hot sauce. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 15 minutes, or until tender and showing some delicious blistered spots. These veggies add a lively kick and depth to your easy chicken lo mein.

Whisk Together the Sauce Ingredients

While the veggies roast, it’s sauce time! In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of hot water. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended, and set the sauce aside. This simple yet flavorful sauce will provide that authentic lo mein taste you’re craving.

Cook the Lo Mein Noodles

Next up, let's get those lo mein noodles cooking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of fresh or dried lo mein noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, which is typically around 4 minutes for fresh noodles. Once cooked, drain the noodles and toss them with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil—this prevents them from sticking together and keeps them beautifully slick.

Sauté the Chicken to Perfection

Heat a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the wok is hot, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Quickly toss in 1 pound of thinly sliced boneless chicken breast. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes until it’s just cooked through; it’s okay if it looks slightly undercooked, as it will finish cooking with the veggies.

Add Vegetables to the Skillet

Once your chicken is nearly done, stir in ½ head of shredded green cabbage (about 3 cups) and 1 large grated carrot. Continue stirring for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies have wilted and released their moisture. This step adds not only nutrients but also vibrant color to your easy chicken lo mein.

Combine Noodles and Sauce with Chicken and Veggies

Now for the fun part—combining everything! Add the drained noodles to the skillet along with your sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the noodles and other ingredients are well-coated in that glorious sauce. If the dish looks a bit dry, don't hesitate to add a splash of water or more soy sauce to reach your desired consistency.

Serve with Garnishes

Finally, it’s time to plate your delicious creation! Serve your easy chicken lo mein topped with chopped fresh scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. If you roasted those optional sriracha veggies, add them on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy this delightful dish while it’s hot, and remember, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days and reheat beautifully in the microwave.

Now that you know how to prepare easy chicken lo mein, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! For more meal ideas, check out our guides on easy family dinners and explore delicious chicken breast recipes. Enjoy the feast!

Variations on Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Veggie-packed lo mein for a healthier twist

Looking to sneak in some extra nutrition? Try adding seasonal vegetables to your easy chicken lo mein. Fresh bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy not only boost the dish's color but also its nutrient profile. Plus, these additions provide a satisfying crunch! You can even toss in some spinach right at the end for an extra dose of vitamins.

Spicy chicken lo mein for the adventurous eaters

For those who love a bit of heat, a spicy twist on easy chicken lo mein is a must-try. Simply incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the sauce mix. You can also substitute some of the soy sauce with chili oil for a deeper flavor. Embrace the spice and add some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out this recipe for an exciting take on chicken and noodles.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

How to Choose the Right Noodles

Selecting the right noodles is key for your easy chicken lo mein. Fresh lo mein noodles are perfect if available, as they provide that authentic chewy texture. If you're using dried noodles, look for good-quality egg noodles; they will still deliver excellent results. Always check cooking times on the package, since they may differ, especially between fresh and dried varieties.

Tips for Achieving the Best Flavor Balance

To elevate your dish, focus on balancing savory and sweet flavors. A little more soy sauce can enhance the umami, while hoisin adds a subtle sweetness. Taste as you go; adjusting these elements can make a significant difference. Incorporating freshly chopped scallions and sesame seeds on top not only adds brightness but also texture. Remember, a splash of hot water in your sauce helps it coat everything evenly, enhancing the overall flavor of your easy chicken lo mein.

For more on noodle types, consider this guide.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Great Side Dishes to Complement the Meal

Pair your easy chicken lo mein with some light but flavorful sides to elevate your dining experience. Some delightful options include:

Crispy Spring Rolls: These are a classic accompaniment that adds a crunchy texture.
Vegetable Dumplings: Soft and filled with flavorful veggies, they provide a nice contrast to the noodle dish.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing can cleanse the palate.

Perfect Pairings for Your Homemade Lo Mein

To round out your meal, consider beverages that balance out the flavors of your lo mein:

Iced Green Tea: This light beverage complements the savory notes of the dish without overwhelming your taste buds.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: The refreshment and acidity can cut through the richness of the sauce nicely.
Non-Alcoholic Ginger Beer: Offering a spiced kick, this drink pairs wonderfully with the sriracha hint as well.

Experiment with these pairings, and see what works best for your taste! Happy cooking!

Time Breakdown for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready will take about 10 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken, shredding the cabbage, and boiling water for the noodles.

Cooking time
Cooking this delicious easy chicken lo mein will take around 20 minutes. This ensures all ingredients are perfectly cooked but still retain their vibrant colors and textures.

Total time
In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready to go! Perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want something homemade.

For more quick dinner ideas, check out easy family dinners to inspire your weeknight menu!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this easy chicken lo mein comes in at a satisfying 406 calories. This makes it a great option for a balanced meal, especially when paired with nutritious veggies.

Protein Content

Packed with 24 grams of protein, the chicken in this dish provides essential amino acids that support muscle health and keep you feeling full longer.

Sodium Levels

With 16 grams of fat and a reasonable sodium level, this recipe is a flavorful choice that still fits into a healthy eating plan. To lower sodium, consider using low-sodium soy sauce.

If you’re interested in exploring more about balanced eating, check out resources like the Mayo Clinic or Healthy Eating. Happy cooking!

FAQs about Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Can I make this lo mein recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this easy chicken lo mein recipe by swapping the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Just ensure you press and marinate the tofu for a flavor boost. You can also use vegetable broth in your sauce to enhance the taste.

What other vegetables can I add to my lo mein?
Feel free to get creative with your veggie choices! Easy chicken lo mein is a great way to use up what's in your fridge. Popular additions include bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms. You can even toss in some baby corn or bok choy for extra texture and nutrients.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. When it comes to reheating, the microwave works wonders—just add a splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

For more tips on incorporating seasonal veggies, check out this guide on veggie-packed meals.

Conclusion on Easy Chicken Lo Mein

Making easy chicken lo mein at home is simpler than you think and definitely worth the effort! Not only do you control the ingredients, but the flavors in homemade versions far surpass restaurant offerings. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with your favorite veggies and seasonings. Enjoy every delightful bite!