Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

A quick and flavorful Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you crave a taste of comforting Asian cuisine. This recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy noodles tossed in a rich, garlicky sauce that rivals your favorite takeout. With its simple preparation and vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein takes only 25 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and fresh veggies creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish offers a nutritious alternative to traditional takeout.
• Easy Cleanup: With just one pan needed for cooking, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A wok allows for high-heat cooking and even browning of the chicken while ensuring crisp-tender veggies.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken and mixing together the sauce ingredients efficiently.
• Knife & cutting board: Essential for slicing chicken and chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For this delicious Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil

How to Make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Marinate the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil for 5–10 minutes. This step helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook lo mein noodles according to package directions. Drain them when done and toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Garlic

In the same pan, add minced garlic (and ginger if using). Sauté until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 6: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until they are crisp-tender.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 8: Add Noodles

Finally, add cooked noodles and green onions into the pan. Toss gently to combine everything evenly. Heat through before serving immediately.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this flavorful meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch alongside the rich flavors of lo mein.

Serve with Spring Rolls

• Crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls make for a perfect appetizer that pairs well with the savory garlic chicken lo mein.

Add Extra Veggies on the Side

• Steamed broccoli or bok choy can be served as a nutritious side, providing additional color and texture to your plate.

Offer Soy Sauce and Chili Oil

• Providing soy sauce and chili oil allows guests to customize their flavor experience, adding more depth or heat as desired.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

To achieve the best Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook lo mein noodles until just al dente; this ensures they have the perfect chewy texture when combined with the sauce.

• High heat cooking: Stir-frying at high heat helps preserve the crunch of vegetables while ensuring even cooking of the chicken.

• Marinate properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Egg Drop Soup: A warm, comforting soup that features silky egg ribbons in a flavorful broth, perfect for starting off your meal.

2. Fried Rice: A classic accompaniment that adds another layer of texture and flavor; try vegetables or shrimp fried rice for extra variety.

3. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables provide a delightful bite-sized option that pairs beautifully with lo mein.

4. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil offers a cooling contrast to the hearty lo mein.

5. Hot-and-Sour Soup: This spicy soup adds an exciting kick and balances well with the garlicky flavors of your main dish.

6. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles drizzled with peanut sauce create a unique texture combination while keeping within Asian cuisine themes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Chicken Lo Mein at home can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving that perfect dish.

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to let the chicken soak in soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil for better taste.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking lo mein noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and ensure they remain chewy.
• Not prepping ingredients first: If you don’t have your veggies and sauce ready before cooking, you may end up with overcooked or burnt ingredients. Always prep everything in advance.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken or vegetables in the pan at once can cause steaming instead of stir-frying. Cook in batches for better results.
• Ignoring high heat: Using low heat when cooking can lead to soggy stir-fry. Use medium-high heat to achieve that signature crisp-tender texture.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Neglecting fresh herbs or green onions as a garnish can miss adding freshness and flavor. Toss them in right before serving for an extra pop.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it cools down before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place lo mein in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer serving portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and reheat while stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Chicken Lo Mein at home.

Can I make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with different proteins?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp, beef, or tofu as alternatives to chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein healthy?

While it contains nutritious ingredients like vegetables, portion control is essential if you’re watching calories. You can also use whole grain noodles for a healthier option.

Can I customize the vegetables in Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorites such as broccoli, bok choy, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles made from rice or quinoa.

What’s the best way to serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

Serve it hot right after cooking and garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it suitable for any meal. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!