Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein Recipe – Easy And Homemade
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Craving a delicious homemade Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor? Look no further than this Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein recipe! This dish combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory noodles with a delightful garlic, soy, and lime seasoning. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a perfect one-pan meal that will satisfy your taste buds and save you a trip to the takeout counter!
Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein is a tasty Chinese recipe that’s very easy to make. Basically, it’s cooked chicken and vegetables mixed with Lo Mein noodles and seasoned with soy sauce – it’s like a pasta dish Chinese style :)
Why You’ll Love Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast. The simple ingredients and straightforward cooking process make it a breeze to prepare!
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean chicken breast and fresh vegetables, this recipe is a wholesome choice for a balanced diet. You can easily control the amount of oil and salt used, making it a healthier option than takeout.
- Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or even use different types of noodles like spaghetti. You can adjust the flavors to suit your preferences, making it a dish everyone will love.
- Kid-Friendly: Most kids love noodles, and this recipe is no exception! The mild, familiar flavors of soy sauce and garlic make it a hit with younger eaters, and you can sneak in extra veggies to boost nutrition.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This Lo Mein tastes just as good the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or leftovers. Pack it for lunch, and you’ll have a tasty, satisfying meal ready to go!
Lo Mein noodles are sold in the Asian isle of most big supermarkets. Sometimes Lo Mein noodles are labeled as “Chow Mein noodles”, and you can use either one of them, as these noodles are very similar. If you can’t find either Lo Mein or Chow Mein noodles, you can use regular spaghetti instead.
Ingredients For Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein
- Chinese Lo Mein or Chow Mein Noodles: These noodles are the base of the dish and provide that classic chewy texture. If you can’t find them, regular spaghetti works as a great substitute.
- Chicken Breast: Lean and high in protein, chicken breast adds a healthy and hearty component to the dish. Make sure to cut it into small pieces for quick and even cooking.
- Onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Vegetables (such as asparagus): Use your favorite vegetables for added texture and nutrition. Asparagus adds a nice crunch, but you can also use bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a robust, aromatic flavor that enhances the sauce.
- Soy Sauce: Provides a salty, umami flavor that is essential in Asian cuisine.
- Vegetable Oil: Used for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables; it helps to cook everything evenly without sticking.
- Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a zesty, tangy kick that brightens up the dish.
- Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and balances the flavors.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein
- Large Pot: Used for boiling the noodles to perfection, ensuring they have the right texture for the dish.
- Non-Stick Frying Pan: Ideal for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables without sticking, making cooking and cleanup easier.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring out the ingredients, especially the soy sauce and oil, to ensure the right balance of flavors.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for chopping vegetables, chicken, and garlic.
- Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for cutting chicken into small pieces and chopping vegetables evenly.
Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein recipe is yummy, healthy and nutritious – it has lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables and boiled noodles, and you can always reduce the amount of oil that’s used. You can use any kind of vegetables – on the picture above, I used asparagus.
How To Make Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein
- Boil the Noodles: Start by cooking your Lo Mein noodles according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are fully cooked and slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add a little more oil and sauté the chopped onion and vegetables over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, around 5 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to the bowl with the cooked chicken.
- Season the Chicken and Vegetables: Pour soy sauce over the chicken and vegetables, sprinkle with black pepper, and mix well to ensure they are coated evenly with the seasoning.
- Flavor the Noodles: In the pot used for boiling the noodles, heat some oil and add minced garlic. Once the garlic is sizzling, add the cooked noodles, tossing quickly to coat them in the garlic oil. Add more soy sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice for extra flavor.
- Combine and Heat Through: Add the chicken and vegetables back to the pot with the noodles. Mix everything together and cook for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Dish out the Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein onto plates and enjoy immediately!
A great thing about this Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein recipe is that it’s a one dish meal – no side dish is needed. It’s also kid friendly as most kids love noodles :)
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein with a side of steamed rice or dumplings for a complete Chinese-inspired meal.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Pair with a light, crisp salad, like cucumber salad, to complement the savory flavors of the Lo Mein.
- Enjoy with a cup of hot green tea or a refreshing iced green tea for an authentic dining experience.
- For a touch of heat, serve with a side of sweet and spicy Sriracha sauce to let everyone customize their spice level.
Tips For Success
- Choose the Right Noodles: For an authentic taste, use Chinese Lo Mein or Chow Mein noodles, which have a slightly chewy texture perfect for stir-frying. If you can’t find them, regular spaghetti can be a great substitute, but be sure not to overcook it to maintain a firm texture.
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: To make the cooking process smooth and quick, have all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking. This is especially important for stir-frying, as the cooking process happens quickly over high heat.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When stir-frying the chicken and vegetables, make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the ingredients to steam rather than fry. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets a nice, golden sear.
- Use High Heat: For the best texture and flavor, stir-fry over medium-high to high heat. This helps the chicken brown nicely and the vegetables stay crisp. Keep the ingredients moving to prevent burning and to cook them evenly.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the soy sauce, lime juice, and pepper according to your preference. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, lime juice for acidity, or a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweet balance.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots are great options to add color, texture, and nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking time for each vegetable to ensure they are all perfectly cooked.
- Use Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a significant difference in flavor, adding a bright, zesty kick that balances the savory elements. Avoid bottled lime juice if possible for the best results.
- Serve Immediately: Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when it’s hot, fragrant, and the noodles have absorbed all the flavors. If you need to wait before serving, keep the dish warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Variations And Substitutions
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand or prefer in this recipe. Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, or baby corn can all be great additions. Each vegetable brings its own texture and flavor to the dish, so mix and match to find your favorite combination.
- Protein Substitutions: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, this recipe works well with other proteins like shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables. Make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked perfectly.
- Noodle Alternatives: While Lo Mein or Chow Mein noodles provide the best texture, you can easily substitute with spaghetti, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb version. Each noodle type will slightly change the dish’s texture and flavor, so choose based on your preference.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles such as rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti. Also, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to maintain the authentic flavor without the gluten.
- Spicy Kick: If you love spicy food, add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stir-fry for some heat. You can also serve it with a side of Sriracha or chili oil for those who want to spice things up.
- Lower Sodium: For a lower sodium version, opt for low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount used. You can also add extra fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to boost flavor without adding salt.
- Sauce Variations: Experiment with adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or a dash of sesame oil for additional depth of flavor. These sauces provide a richer taste and can enhance the overall dish, especially if you like a slightly sweeter or smokier profile.
- Add a Sweet Note: For a sweeter touch, add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce. This is especially good if you enjoy the balance of sweet and savory in your dishes, similar to many classic Chinese takeout meals.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled down to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to prevent condensation, which can make the noodles soggy.
- Freezing Option: If you want to store the dish for a longer period, you can freeze it. Place the Lo Mein in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: For the best results, reheat the Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein on the stovetop. Heat a pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and then add the Lo Mein. Stir frequently until everything is heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the noodles and vegetables.
- Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat the Lo Mein in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully heated.
- Add Fresh Elements: When reheating, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to refresh the flavors. You can also toss in some fresh chopped green onions or a handful of fresh veggies to add a bit of crunch and brightness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Chinese Lo Mein or Chow Mein noodles are ideal for their chewy texture, you can use other types of noodles, like spaghetti, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Each type of noodle will bring a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish, so choose what you enjoy most or what you have on hand.
What other vegetables can I add to the Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein?
This recipe is highly versatile, and you can add a wide range of vegetables to suit your taste or use what you have available. Popular choices include bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, broccoli, baby corn, or mushrooms. Be mindful of the different cooking times for each vegetable to ensure they are all cooked to your liking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles such as rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti. Additionally, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce to keep the dish free of gluten without sacrificing flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in portioned containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. It reheats well, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What can I do if my Lo Mein turns out too salty?
If your Lo Mein turns out too salty, try adding a splash of lime juice or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors. You can also mix in additional noodles or vegetables to help dilute the saltiness. Using low-sodium soy sauce or reducing the amount of soy sauce next time can also help control the salt level.
Other Easy Recipes With Noodles
Easy Noodles Recipe with Ground Turkey: A quick and flavorful dish combining tender noodles with savory ground turkey for a perfect weeknight meal.
Japanese Hibachi Style Noodles Recipe: Enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of Japanese hibachi noodles cooked to perfection at home.
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Noodles from Frozen: Transform frozen zucchini noodles into a crispy, low-carb delight using your air fryer.
Other Easy Chicken Recipes
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Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Wrapped in Foil: Lock in moisture and flavor with this simple method for air-frying chicken breast wrapped in foil.
Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz Chinese Lo Mein or Chow Mein noodles or spaghetti
- 1 lb skinless boneless chicken breast cut into small pieces
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 lb vegetables chopped (I used asparagus)
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lime
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Large pot
- Non-stick Frying pan
Instructions
- Cook the Lo Mein noodles according to package directions (they usually cook really quickly – about 3 minutes). Drain the noodles.
- Heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the frying pan into a bowl.
- Pour another 1/2 tbsp of oil into a frying pan and heat over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and chopped vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are cook, but still crisp. Remove the vegetables from the frying pan and add to the bowl with chicken.
- Pour 2 tbsp of soy sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle with pepper. Mix everything so the chicken and vegetables are coated with soy sauce.
- Put 2 tbsp of oil in a big pot (that was used for cooking the noodles). Add minced garlic and heat the pot over medium-high heat. When the garlic starts to sizzle, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the pot. Quickly mix so the noodles are coated with garlic oil. Add 1 tbsp of soy sauce and squeeze the juice out of the lime onto noodles. Mix thoroughly.
- Add chicken and vegetables to the lo mein noodles. Mix everything well and cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes, or until everything is evenly heated through.
Enjoy this tasty Chicken Vegetable Lo Mein dish – it’s really yummy! For more Chinese recipes, check out orange chicken recipe, garlic beef recipe and chicken fried rice.
The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and lime was amazing 👌
So glad I found this recipe healthy and flavorful!