Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood by my stove, the tantalizing aroma of garlic engulfed the kitchen, beckoning me closer. This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a game-changer that redefines homemade meals, allowing you to savor all the enticing flavors of takeout without stepping foot outside. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant dish that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy lo mein noodles drenched in a luscious garlic-infused sauce. With its customizable nature, it’s perfect for accommodating whatever leftovers you have on hand — making it not only a quick meal but also a smart way to reduce food waste. Plus, it’s a healthier option that won’t skimp on satisfaction! Curious to see how simple and delicious dinner can be? Let’s dive right into the recipe! Why is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful medley of succulent chicken, vibrant veggies, and rich garlic sauce, creating a harmony that rivals your favorite takeout. Customizable Delight: Flexibility is key! Swap proteins or use whatever vegetables are in your fridge, making every dish uniquely yours. Quick Cooking Time: In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a restaurant-quality meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Healthier Choice: Ditch the takeout guilt; this version is not only fresher but allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier alternative. One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks in one pan, giving you more time to relax after dinner. Want more quick and healthy meal ideas? Check out our section on customizable dinner recipes to satisfy your cravings! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients Get ready to create a stunning meal with these simple ingredients! For the Noodles • Lo Mein Noodles – The perfect base for this dish; can substitute with spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles if lo mein isn’t available. For the Protein • Chicken – The star of the dish, adding heartiness; thinly sliced for quick cooking and can be swapped for shrimp, beef, pork, tofu, or mushrooms. For the Vegetables • Bell Peppers – Provide sweetness and color; feel free to mix with carrots or snap peas based on your preference. • Carrots – Adds crunch and sweetness; slice them thinly for even cooking. • Snap Peas – Bring freshness and snap; frozen options work too, just thaw and drain before adding. For Flavoring • Garlic – A must-have for that rich flavor; fresh garlic is best for a robust taste. • Soy Sauce – Essential for saltiness and umami; use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. • Oyster Sauce & Hoisin Sauce – These add depth and sweetness to your dish; ensure they are gluten-free if needed. For Cooking • Cooking Oil – Pick vegetable or sesame oil to elevate the flavor when stir-frying. For Garnish • Green Onions – Sprinkle on top for a pop of freshness and mild onion flavor; chives can be a good substitute if you prefer. With these vibrant ingredients ready, you’ll be well on your way to whipping up a delicious Garlic Chicken Lo Mein right at home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Step 1: Prepare the Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and minced garlic. Whisk them together until smooth, ensuring the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the sauce. Set this delectable mixture aside, as it will infuse your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with rich, savory flavor. Step 2: Cook the Noodles Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles, and toss them with a splash of oil to prevent sticking while you prep the rest of your meal. Step 3: Heat the Pan In a large skillet or wok, add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil and heat over medium-high heat. Swirl the oil around the pan to coat evenly as it heats. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer slightly, signaling that it’s perfect for stir-frying. Step 4: Cook the Chicken Add the thinly sliced chicken to the hot pan, spreading it out in a single layer. Sauté the chicken for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink in the center. This step ensures your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein has tender, juicy chicken pieces full of flavor. Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables Toss in your selected vegetables, such as bell peppers and snap peas, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to become tender yet still bright and crisp for texture. The vibrant colors and aroma will make this dish even more inviting as the vegetables soften in the heat. Step 6: Combine with Sauce and Noodles Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to ensure each piece is coated. Then, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the pan, using tongs or a spatula to mix everything together thoroughly. The warmth will help the flavors meld beautifully in your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Step 7: Final Heating Allow the dish to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes over medium heat, tossing occasionally until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning if needed; this is your chance to customize the flavor to your liking. Step 8: Garnish and Serve Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and an extra bite of flavor. Serve immediately, enjoying the glorious blend of flavors and textures in this satisfying meal. Storage Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Ensure the sauce is evenly distributed to prevent freeze-burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or oil to restore moisture. Stir frequently to heat evenly. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Garlic Chicken Lo Mein out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Make Ahead Options Preparing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and thinly slice the chicken up to 24 hours ahead to streamline your cooking process. For maximum flavor, mix the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and garlic) and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply stir-fry the chicken and veggies, add the cooked lo mein noodles, and drizzle in the sauce. This method ensures everything is just as delicious while letting the flavors meld beautifully, so you enjoy a quick, stress-free meal anytime! Expert Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein • Perfect Noodles: Avoid mushiness by cooking lo mein noodles just until al dente; they’ll continue cooking in the pan. • Thin Slices: Cut chicken thinly for quick cooking and better sauce absorption; thicker pieces can lead to uneven cooking. • Pre-Mix Sauces: Combine sauces ahead of time to ensure a balanced flavor; this prevents adding them directly in the pan and losing out on taste. • Don’t Overcrowd: Stir-fry vegetables in small batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam instead of get that lovely crispness. • Adjust Seasoning: Taste your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein before serving; a little extra soy sauce or hoisin can elevate the flavor to your preference. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations Feel free to get creative and make this delicious Garlic Chicken Lo Mein uniquely yours with these fun swaps and additions! Tofu Swap: Replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian delight. Press and cube the tofu before sautéing for that perfect golden crisp. Spicy Kick: Craving some heat? Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce before combining it with the noodles for a fiery twist. Veggie Medley: Mix in sturdy veggies like bok choy, broccoli, or baby corn for extra crunch and nutrients! They cook nicely and add gorgeous color to your dish. Coconut Cream: For a creamy texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk while cooking the sauce. It’ll add a subtle sweetness that complements the garlic beautifully. Zoodles Option: For a lighter version, swap out lo mein noodles for spiralized zucchini. They add freshness and a fun twist to your dinner plate. Cashew Crunch: Top your dish with roasted cashews for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. A little extra protein never hurt anyone! Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic lift. Sprinkle them over the finished dish for a burst of freshness. Sweet Treat: Want a hint of sweetness? Toss in some snap peas with sautéed chicken to balance out the savory flavors perfectly. Each variation adds its own charm, making this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein not just a meal, but an inviting canvas for your culinary creativity! Looking for more ways to personalize your dinners? Don’t miss our collection of customizable dinner recipes for inspiration! What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein To create a delicious and well-rounded meal around your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, consider these delightful pairings! Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites are a classic side, providing a delightful texture contrast and a hint of umami with each dip in the sweet chili sauce. Asian Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a cool crunch that balances the savory richness of the lo mein, keeping your meal vibrant and fresh. Hot and Sour Soup: Perfectly warming, this soup adds a spicy and tangy element that complements the savory flavors of the lo mein, elevating your dining experience. Sesame Garlic Bok Choy: Stir-fried bok choy drizzled with sesame oil enhances the garlic flavor and adds a crisp, tender green veggie to your plate, ensuring a colorful dinner. Chili Oil Dumplings: These steamed dumplings add a unique flavor and texture with a spicy kick, making them a perfect accompaniment to your Asian-inspired meal. Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this dessert offers a lovely contrast with creamy coconut and juicy mangoes, rounding off the meal perfectly after the savory lo mein. Green Tea: A soothing drink that clears the palate, green tea’s delicate flavor balances the rich garlic sauce and complements the freshness of the meal. Fruit Infused Sparkling Water: Light and refreshing, the carbonation offers a bubbly contrast to the savory noodles while the fruit flavors add a hint of sweetness. Matcha Cheesecake: If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, this creamy dessert brings together the subtle taste of matcha with a rich cheesecake, making it a delightful ending to your meal. Pickled Vegetables: These tangy bites provide a zingy taste that cuts through the richness of the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile for a dynamic dining experience. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs What type of lo mein noodles should I use? You should ideally use lo mein noodles for the best texture and flavor. However, if they’re unavailable, spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles work just as well. They will still give you that satisfying chewy quality! How should I store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s crucial to make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing. If you’re ready to savor it later, just reheat in a pan with a splash of water or oil to keep it moist. Can I freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Absolutely! You can freeze portions of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to evenly distribute the sauce before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan with a little water or oil. What should I do if my noodles become mushy? To avoid mushy noodles, make sure to cook them just until al dente—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. If they do get overcooked, try adding them to the stir-fry sooner to absorb some flavor from the sauce! Can I customize the vegetables in my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Yes, indeed! One of the beauties of this dish is its adaptability. You can swap in any vegetables you have on hand—think bok choy, zucchini, or broccoli. Just keep in mind that denser veggies might take slightly longer to cook than lighter ones. The more the merrier when it comes to colorful vegetables! Is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, it can definitely be modified for gluten-free diets! Use gluten-free soy sauce like tamari, and ensure your oyster and hoisin sauces are also gluten-free. Just a few simple switch-ups, and you can enjoy a delicious Garlic Chicken Lo Mein! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein: A Healthier Takeout Favorite at Home This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a healthier takeout alternative, packed with flavors and customizable ingredients for a satisfying meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AsianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Noodles8 oz Lo Mein Noodles can substitute with spaghetti, udon, or rice noodlesFor the Protein1 lb Chicken thinly sliced, can be swapped for shrimp, beef, pork, tofu, or mushroomsFor the Vegetables1 cup Bell Peppers can mix with carrots or snap peas1 cup Carrots slice them thinly1 cup Snap Peas frozen options work too, thaw and drainFor Flavoring4 cloves Garlic fresh garlic is best3 tbsp Soy Sauce use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free1 tbsp Oyster Sauce ensure gluten-free if needed1 tbsp Hoisin Sauce ensure gluten-free if neededFor Cooking2 tbsp Cooking Oil vegetable or sesame oilFor Garnish1 bunch Green Onions can substitute with chives Equipment Large potlarge skillet or wokmixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and minced garlic. Whisk them together until smooth and set aside.Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-4 minutes. Drain and toss with a splash of oil.In a large skillet or wok, add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil and heat over medium-high. Swirl the oil around the pan to coat.Add the thinly sliced chicken to the hot pan, sauté for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.Toss in bell peppers and snap peas, stirring for about 2-3 minutes until tender.Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well. Add the cooked lo mein noodles and mix thoroughly.Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes over medium heat until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or oil. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
