Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients needed for this delicious Chicken Lo Mein:
- For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- For the Chicken Lo Mein:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti noodles)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this flavorful Chicken Lo Mein, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet or wok
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Tongs or a spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Add the thinly sliced chicken and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Cook the lo mein noodles (or spaghetti noodles) according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chicken broth. Set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion, red bell pepper, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Toss well to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the sauce and heated through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry in a skillet until heated through.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
- Beef Lo Mein: Swap the chicken for thinly sliced beef for a delicious variation.
- Vegetarian Lo Mein: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, and bok choy.
- Shrimp Lo Mein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Prep Ahead: Cut and prepare all your vegetables and marinate the chicken in advance to save time when cooking.
- High Heat: Stir-fry on high heat for the best results, ensuring a quick and even cook without making the vegetables soggy.
- Noodle Choice: If you can’t find lo mein noodles, spaghetti or linguine works well as a substitute.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Chicken Lo Mein pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes and beverages:
- Appetizers: Serve with egg rolls, spring rolls, or dumplings for a complete Chinese meal experience.
- Beverages: Pair with green tea, jasmine tea, or a refreshing glass of iced tea.
- Side Dishes: Complement the meal with a side of steamed dumplings or a simple cucumber salad.
FAQ
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and noodles.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, such as broccoli, snow peas, or baby corn.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?
Toss the cooked noodles with a little sesame oil to prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While Chicken Lo Mein is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook everything just before serving.
What if I don’t have a wok?
A large skillet works just fine for this recipe. Just make sure it’s big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
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