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 inspired by classic Chinese takeout and is easy to make at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave comforting Asian flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce creates a rich and savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this lo mein is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it up in a big bowl to impress your family or guests with this restaurant-quality dish at home.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein effectively, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Below are the essential tools you will need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying due to its high heat capacity and shape that allows easy tossing of ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing sauces without mess.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables and slicing chicken safely.

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 chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil for 5–10 minutes. This step adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain them once cooked, then toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 5: Sauté Garlic and Vegetables

In the same pan, sauté garlic (and ginger if using) until fragrant. Add bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas; stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until they are crisp-tender.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 7: Add Noodles

Add cooked noodles and green onions into the pan. Toss gently to combine everything well and heat through before serving immediately.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Spring Rolls

• Crispy spring rolls are a great appetizer to serve alongside Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. They add a delightful crunch and can be filled with veggies or meat.

Add Extra Vegetables

• Enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or baby corn. This not only adds color but also boosts the flavors.

Serve with Soy Sauce on the Side

• Providing soy sauce as a condiment allows everyone to customize their flavor. A drizzle over the dish can amplify the salty goodness.

Garnish with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkling sesame seeds adds both texture and visual appeal. These tiny seeds bring a nutty flavor that complements the garlic sauce perfectly.

Enjoy with Hot Sauce

• For those who like a kick, offering hot sauce on the side can spice things up. It’s an easy way to cater to different taste preferences.

Accompany with Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled vegetables provide a tangy contrast that balances the richness of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. They are refreshing and can cleanse the palate.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

To achieve the best Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, vegetables, and chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook lo mein noodles just until al dente for the best texture.
• High heat cooking: Cooking at medium-high heat helps achieve that signature stir-fry taste and texture.
• Marinate chicken well: Allowing chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Add sauce gradually: Pouring sauce slowly helps combine flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Serve immediately: Enjoying this dish right after cooking ensures maximum freshness and optimal taste.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Complement your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with these tasty side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Vegetable Fried Rice
   A classic choice, vegetable fried rice adds heartiness and pairs well with lo mein flavors.

2. Steamed Dumplings
   Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables offer a delightful addition, making your meal feel complete.

3. Chinese Cucumber Salad
   This refreshing salad provides a crisp contrast to lo mein’s rich flavors, making it a light option.

4. Hot and Sour Soup
   A bowl of this spicy soup adds warmth and depth; it’s perfect for starting off your meal.

5. Edamame Beans
   Lightly salted edamame makes for a healthy finger food option that’s fun to eat alongside lo mein.

6. Sesame Noodles
   These chilled noodles tossed in sesame dressing create an interesting textural contrast while remaining deliciously Asian-inspired.

7. Miso Soup
   Light yet flavorful, miso soup serves as an excellent starter that won’t overshadow your main dish.

8. Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)
   Soft buns filled with savory BBQ pork create a satisfying bite that complements any Asian meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the marinade – Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always take the time to marinate your chicken for at least 5-10 minutes.
• Overcooking the noodles – Overcooked lo mein noodles can become mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and cook them just until al dente.
• Ignoring ingredient prep – Not prepping your vegetables can slow down cooking. Chop all your veggies before you start cooking for a smoother process.
• Using low-quality soy sauce – Poor-quality soy sauce can ruin the dish’s flavor. Invest in a good brand for the best results.
• Not adding enough garlic – Garlic is key for flavor in this dish. Don’t skimp on it; use the full amount or more if you love garlic!
• Neglecting high heat – Cooking on too low of heat can make your stir-fry soggy instead of crisp. Use medium-high heat for that perfect texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat covered for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

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 flavorful dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and lo mein noodles tossed in a rich garlic sauce.

Can I customize my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or bok choy according to your preference.

Is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein healthy?

When prepared with fresh ingredients, Garlic Chicken Lo Mein can be a nutritious meal packed with protein and vitamins from the veggies.

How do I store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! While lo mein noodles work best, you can substitute with spaghetti or even rice noodles if preferred.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is not only quick and easy but also filled with comforting Asian flavors that everyone loves. This versatile dish allows for customization based on what you have on hand. Give it a try, and feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins!