If you are craving a comforting, flavorful meal that brings the essence of classic Chinese takeout right to your own kitchen, look no further than this Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly sauced noodles, this dish balances savory and subtle sweetness in a way that feels both satisfying and fresh. It’s the kind of recipe that’s straightforward enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to share with guests. Trust me, once you make this, Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe will become a beloved staple in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to nailing the flavor and texture of this dish. Each component, from the crisp bell peppers to the fragrant sesame oil, plays a vital role in creating that authentic and irresistible Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe experience.
- Vegetable oil: The perfect neutral oil for high-heat stir-frying without overpowering other flavors.
- Chicken breast: Provides lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender when sliced thinly.
- Garlic: Adds a punch of aromatic depth, essential for that classic savory base.
- Onion: Brings a natural sweetness and texture contrast as it softens.
- Bell pepper: Offers vibrant color and subtle crunch that enlivens the dish.
- Mushrooms: Introduce earthiness and a juicy bite that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Cooked lo mein noodles: The hearty carbohydrate foundation that absorbs all the delicious sauce.
- Soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich liquid that ties everything together.
- Oyster sauce: Adds a layer of rich, savory sweetness that enhances the depth of flavor.
- Hoisin sauce: Provides a touch of sweetness and complexity to balance the savory elements.
- Sesame oil: Used sparingly, it imparts a toasty, nutty aroma that truly elevates this Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe.
- Ginger: Fresh minced ginger adds a lively, zesty kick that brightens the dish.
- Sugar: Balances acidity and salt for a wonderfully harmonious sauce.
- Water: Helps to loosen the sauce and keep the stir-fry juicy without diluting the flavors.
- Black pepper: A subtle spice that rounds out the seasoning.
- Green onions: A fresh garnish that adds a slight bite and lovely color contrast just before serving.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil and Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok on medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the thinly sliced chicken breast pieces. Stir-fry for 5 to 6 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This initial step is key to sealing in the juices and getting a nice, slightly caramelized exterior on your chicken.
Step 2: Set the Chicken Aside
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and transfer it onto a plate. Setting the chicken aside keeps it tender and prevents it from overcooking while you work on the veggies.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently until the onions turn translucent and the garlic releases its enticing aroma. This creates a fragrant base that’s the heart of the savory sauce.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Throw in the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms with the garlic and onions. Stir-fry these for another 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften but still maintain a bit of crunch. This texture contrast makes every bite exciting and fresh.
Step 5: Return the Chicken and Add Sauces
Now, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with your vegetables. Combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sugar in a small bowl, then pour the mixture over the contents of the skillet. This vibrant sauce blend is the star of the Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe, delivering that perfect umami-packed richness.
Step 6: Add Water, Ginger, and Seasoning
Pour in 1/4 cup of water to loosen the sauce and help it coat all ingredients evenly. Stir in the minced ginger and season with black pepper for a subtle bite. These layers of seasoning ensure each mouthful bursts with flavor.
Step 7: Mix in the Noodles and Finish Cooking
Add your cooked lo mein noodles directly to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so the noodles absorb that luscious sauce. Continue stir-frying for 2 to 3 minutes until the noodles are heated through and everything is perfectly combined.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the dish generously with sliced green onions to add that fresh, slightly sharp pop of flavor and a final touch of color that makes this Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe look truly irresistible.
How to Serve Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Chicken Lo Mein with a handful of vibrant green onions is a classic move, but try adding some toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for a bit of texture and heat. Fresh cilantro or even a squeeze of lime can awaken the dish in unexpected ways that your guests will love.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with a simple cucumber salad or steamed dumplings makes for a well-rounded meal. A light soup, like hot and sour or egg drop, also complements the savory sauce wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chicken Lo Mein in individual bowls topped with crispy fried onions or crushed peanuts to add an exciting crunch. Alternatively, wrap the lo mein and veggies in lettuce cups for a fresh handheld treat that combines texture and flavor beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place your leftover Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an easy and delicious lunch or dinner option for busy days.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions by storing the noodles and sauce separately from the vegetables and chicken for better texture retention. Use freezer-safe containers to keep everything fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through, preserving the integrity of the noodles and the savory sauce for another delicious meal.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional, you can substitute with spaghetti, udon, or even rice noodles if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on your noodle choice.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables, and swap oyster sauce for a vegetarian-friendly alternative like mushroom sauce. The vegetable oil and sauces will still deliver amazing flavor.
How spicy is this Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe?
This version is mild and kid-friendly, but you can easily add chili flakes, fresh chili, or a dash of hot sauce to suit your preferred heat level.
Can I prepare ingredients ahead of time?
Definitely. Slicing your vegetables and marinating the chicken beforehand saves time when you want to cook. However, it’s best to cook and combine all ingredients just before serving for the freshest taste.
What’s the secret to perfect chicken in this recipe?
Keeping the chicken sliced thinly and cooking it over medium-high heat for just the right amount of time ensures it stays juicy and tender, without drying out or becoming rubbery.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and joyful about a well-made Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe that it’s hard not to fall in love with it. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, blending simple ingredients into a meal that feels both special and familiar. I hope you try it soon and find it as delightful and satisfying as I do!
Print
Chicken Lo Mein with Vegetables and Savory Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This classic Chicken Lo Mein recipe features tender slices of chicken breast stir-fried with fresh vegetables and savory sauces, combined with perfectly cooked lo mein noodles. It’s a flavorful, easy-to-make Asian-inspired dish that cooks quickly on the stovetop, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Noodles
- 3 cups cooked lo mein noodles
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add the sliced chicken breast to the hot oil and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove chicken: Take the cooked chicken out of the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté garlic and onion: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Cook vegetables: Add the sliced bell pepper and mushrooms to the skillet with the garlic and onion. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Return chicken to skillet: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the vegetables and mix together.
- Prepare sauce mixture: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sugar, mixing thoroughly.
- Add sauce to skillet: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet and stir to coat.
- Add water and ginger: Pour 1/4 cup of water into the skillet and add the minced ginger, stirring well to distribute flavors evenly.
- Season the dish: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper into the skillet and stir everything together again.
- Add noodles: Incorporate the cooked lo mein noodles into the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles thoroughly with the sauce and ingredients.
- Stir-fry all ingredients: Continue stir-frying the combined noodles, chicken, and vegetables for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well mixed.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Cooked lo mein noodles can be store-bought or freshly prepared before starting this recipe.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or sliced fresh chili to the stir-fry along with the garlic and onion.
- You can substitute chicken with tofu or beef for a different protein option.
- Ensure the skillet or wok is hot enough before adding ingredients to achieve proper stir-fry texture.
- Do not overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp for the best texture.
