Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

A quick and flavorful Garlic Chicken Lo Mein that’s packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and perfectly chewy noodles tossed in a rich, garlicky sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave comforting Asian flavors. Its vibrant ingredients and ease of preparation make it a standout choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be made in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and sauces creates a deliciously rich taste that rivals takeout.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or protein options to customize the dish.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with fresh veggies and lean chicken, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste just as good, making it a great option for lunch the next day.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will enhance your efficiency in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: This allows for even heating and plenty of space to stir-fry the ingredients without crowding.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on chicken and vegetables, which contributes to even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for marinating the chicken and combining sauce ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil

For the Noodles

• 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)

For the Stir-Fry

• 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 sliced chicken in a bowl with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Prepare lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Once done, drain them 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 to the pan, cooking until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Garlic

In the same pan used for chicken, sauté minced garlic (and ginger if using) until fragrant. This should take about 30 seconds.

Step 6: Stir-Fry Vegetables

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

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the pan along with prepared sauce. Simmer everything together for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 8: Toss with Noodles

Finally, add cooked lo mein noodles and sliced green onions to the pan. Toss gently to combine all ingredients while heating through. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Serving Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is an enjoyable experience that allows you to showcase its vibrant colors and flavors. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped cilantro – Adds a fresh and aromatic touch.
• Sliced green onions – Provides a nice crunch and enhances the flavor.

Pair with Crispy Spring Rolls

• Vegetable spring rolls – A perfect appetizer to complement the savory flavors of the lo mein.

Add a Side Salad

• Asian slaw – A crunchy salad made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds freshness.

Serve with Soy Sauce or Chili Sauce

• Soy sauce – A classic addition that enhances the umami flavor.
• Chili sauce – For those who enjoy a spicy kick!

Enjoy with Steamed Rice

• White or jasmine rice – A simple side that balances out the rich flavors.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Perfecting Garlic Chicken Lo Mein takes just a few tips to elevate your dish. With these suggestions, you can enhance flavors and textures effortlessly.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and garlic will give your dish vibrant flavors.
• Don’t overcook the noodles – Cook them just until al dente for the perfect texture.
• High heat cooking – Use medium-high heat while stir-frying to achieve that coveted wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor.
• Marinate your chicken – Allowing chicken to marinate helps in achieving a deeper flavor profile.
• Add veggies in stages – Cook harder vegetables like carrots first, then add softer ones like bell peppers for even cooking.
• Taste as you go – Adjust seasonings to your preference for the best flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Complement your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with delightful side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Egg Drop Soup – A light soup featuring beaten eggs and green onions adds warmth.
2. Fried Rice – A flavorful rice option mixed with veggies and soy sauce pairs perfectly.
3. Dumplings – Steamed or fried dumplings filled with pork or vegetables make for a tasty addition.
4. Chinese Broccoli Stir-Fry – Lightly sautéed broccoli gives a nutritious crunch alongside your lo mein.
5. Hot and Sour Soup – This tangy soup provides an exciting contrast to the lo mein’s savory profile.
6. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad made from thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar adds brightness.
7. Sesame Noodles – Cold sesame noodles offer a different yet complementary flavor to your meal.
8. Sweet and Sour Tofu – For a vegetarian option, this dish adds sweetness that contrasts nicely with garlic flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating 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 vegetables: Overcooked veggies can become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Stir-fry them just until they’re crisp-tender for the best texture.
• Using the wrong noodles: Substituting lo mein noodles with other types can change the dish’s texture. Stick with lo mein or spaghetti for the best results.
• Not preparing the sauce in advance: Mixing your sauce ingredients beforehand ensures a smoother cooking process. Whisk them together before starting to cook.
• Ignoring the heat level: Cooking on too low heat can lead to soggy noodles and undercooked chicken. Use medium-high heat for perfect stir-frying.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.

What is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a delicious stir-fried noodle dish featuring tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich garlic sauce.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu depending on your preference.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your noodles are also gluten-free.

What vegetables are best for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

You can use bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, bok choy, or any fresh vegetables you like!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a quick and flavorful dish that brings comforting Asian flavors right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers plenty of room for customization—add your favorite veggies or proteins! Don’t hesitate to make this delightful meal tonight.