Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of garlic sizzling in hot oil draws me into the kitchen, igniting my excitement for a cozy weeknight meal. I can’t resist the allure of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, a dish that brings together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and those delightful chewy noodles—all in under 30 minutes! Not only is this recipe quick to whip up, but it offers an incredible opportunity to customize it to your taste. Whether you prefer it with shrimp, tofu, or a bit more heat, you’ll find this perfect mix of flavors becomes a go-to favorite. Ready to embark on a delicious, homemade journey that beats takeout any day? Let’s dive into cooking this delectable dish together! Why Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Stands Out Quick Preparation: Whip up this meal in just 25 minutes, making it the ultimate weeknight lifesaver. Customizable Flavors: Feel free to switch proteins or add your favorite veggies for a unique twist every time. Umami Delight: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil delivers a flavor explosion that rivals your favorite takeout. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, ensuring everyone goes back for seconds! Homemade Comfort: Enjoy that warm, cozy feeling knowing you’re serving up a wholesome dish packed with nutrients and fresh ingredients. For more delicious options, try my Honey Garlic Salmon or Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients • Get ready to create a delicious dish with these key ingredients! For the Chicken 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – A great source of protein to keep you satisfied; substitute with shrimp or tofu if you prefer. 1 tbsp soy sauce – Adds that irresistible umami flavor; gluten-free soy sauce can be used for a lighter option. 1 tsp cornstarch – Helps tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce for a silky finish. 1 tsp sesame oil – Introduces a warm, nutty flavor that enhances the dish’s aroma. For the Noodles & Vegetables 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) – The delightful base for this dish; toss with sesame oil post-cooking for added flavor. 2 tbsp vegetable oil – Essential for sautéing; ensures everything cooks evenly and remains rich. 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star ingredient that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. 1 cup sliced bell peppers – Brings color and crunch to the dish; feel free to use your favorite type! 1 cup shredded carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrant color, making every bite more appealing. 1 cup snap peas or snow peas – Offers freshness and a delightful crunch; a must for texture! 3 green onions, sliced – Perfect for garnish; lends a mild onion flavor that ties the dish together. 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional) – Adds an extra layer of warmth and spice if you like a bit more kick! For the Sauce 3 tbsp soy sauce – The main seasoning for depth; pairs beautifully with the chicken. 1 tbsp oyster sauce – Delivers complexity; omit it for a vegetarian version. 1 tbsp hoisin sauce – Adds a sweet element that beautifully balances the flavors. 1 tsp brown sugar – Enhances sweetness, counterbalancing the saltiness of the sauces. 1/4 cup chicken broth or water – Adjusts sauce consistency to your liking. 1 tsp toasted sesame oil – Infuses that delightful nutty flavor to round out the dish. Embrace the joy of cooking with this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein—it’s bound to become a staple in your quick weeknight dinners! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Step 1: Marinate Chicken Begin by slicing the boneless chicken into thin strips and placing them in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for about 5 to 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. Step 2: Cook Noodles While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 4-5 minutes, until tender yet firm (al dente). Once cooked, drain the noodles and toss them with a splash of sesame oil to prevent sticking, then set aside. Step 3: Mix Sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of chicken broth or water. This mixture will give your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein that deliciously complex flavor; set it aside for later use. Step 4: Sauté Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a hot wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep it warm on a plate. Step 5: Sauté Garlic and Veggies In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and optional grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry these veggies for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp and vibrant, helping to enhance the flavor of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Step 6: Combine and Cook Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet with the vegetables, then pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, coating the chicken and vegetables nicely. This step is crucial for melding all those scrumptious flavors together. Step 7: Finish with Noodles Now, add the cooked lo mein noodles and sliced green onions to the skillet. Gently toss everything together for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are warmed through and evenly mixed with the sauce and vegetables. This final step transforms your ingredients into a satisfying dish, ready to serve hot! What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Elevate your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein experience by pairing it with delightful side dishes and drinks that complement its tantalizing flavors. Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory, these dumplings provide a wonderful contrast to the chewy noodles, making for a comforting duo. Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad brightens up the meal with its crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing, balancing the hearty noodles perfectly. Egg Rolls: Crispy on the outside and packed with flavor on the inside, egg rolls offer a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of lo mein. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with a hint of soy sauce adds another hearty element to your table, creating a satisfying spread that everyone will love. Hot and Sour Soup: This vibrant soup serves as a warm start to your meal, with its rich flavors complementing the garlic tones in the lo mein while providing a comforting way to warm up. Chilled Jasmine Tea: Refreshing yet subtly sweet, jasmine tea adds a floral note that perfectly complements the rich flavors of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, making every sip a leisurely delight. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert lovers, this sweet treat provides a lovely contrast with its creamy coconut flavor and smooth texture, rounding out the meal with a touch of indulgence. Light Lager: A crisp, cold lager offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the lo mein, creating a well-rounded dining experience with every mouthful. Make Ahead Options These Garlic Chicken Lo Mein are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss! You can marinate the chicken in soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil up to 24 hours in advance—this helps to enhance the flavor and tenderness. Additionally, cook the lo mein noodles ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days; just toss them with a touch of sesame oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the marinated chicken and vegetables, combine them with the sauce, and add the prepped noodles. This method allows for quick assembly and delivers just as delicious results with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Hot Wok: Ensure your wok or skillet is nice and hot before adding oil to achieve that perfect sear on the chicken. Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing the chicken; this allows for better browning and keeps the chicken juicy. Custom Spice Levels: Want more heat? Add chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha to your sauce for that spicy kick in your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Prepping Ahead: Chop your vegetables and marinate your chicken in advance to save time during the cooking process. Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before adding all of it to the pan; this way, you can adjust flavors to suit your preference! How to Store and Freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve texture. Thawing: To enjoy frozen Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet, adding a little broth to prevent drying out. Reheating: When reheating, toss gently with a bit of oil or water over low heat to ensure the noodles don’t clump together. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations Feel free to get creative and tailor your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein to fit your family’s taste buds! Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a quick seafood twist that’s equally satisfying. The bright flavor of shrimp pairs wonderfully with the garlic sauce. Tofu Option: For a vegetarian delight, substitute chicken with firm tofu. Just be sure to press out excess moisture for best texture and flavor. Beef It Up: Try using thinly sliced beef in place of chicken for a heartier dish that’ll please meat lovers. The richness of the beef brings a delightful depth! Spice Things Up: If you like a kick, add chili flakes or a splash of Sriracha to the sauce for an exciting level of heat. Just remember, a little goes a long way! Extra Veggie Boost: Amp up the nutrition by adding more veggies such as broccoli or zucchini. They’ll not only bring more color but also enhance the crunch factor. Noodle Alternatives: Swap lo mein noodles with rice noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti for a different texture. Gluten-free noodles work wonderfully too! Umami Flavor Blast: Add a dash of fish sauce or more soy sauce to bring the umami hit even further in your dish. This will elevate the taste to restaurant-quality! Garnish Variations: Top with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch. Fresh cilantro or basil also make for a fragrant herb finish, bringing brightness to every bite. While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out my delicious Poblano Chicken Tacos for another quick meal idea or try my comforting Pesto Chicken Broccoli for a different flavor experience! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs What ingredients should I look for when selecting chicken? Absolutely! Always pick boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that look fresh—no dark spots or off odors. If you’re opting for shrimp or tofu as substitutions, choose shrimp that are plump and translucent, or tofu that’s firm and not expired. How should I store leftovers from Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? It’s very simple! Place leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Can I freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Absolutely! To freeze, allow your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein to cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. What should I do if my noodles clump together when reheating? If you notice that your noodles have clumped after storing, don’t worry! When reheating, add a tablespoon of oil or a splash of broth to the skillet. Gently toss the noodles over low heat until they’re revived and evenly mixed in with the chicken and veggies—this technique works wonders! Is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, it can be! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure that the other sauces you use are gluten-free as well. Also, opt for gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti to keep the entire dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Can I adjust the spice level in Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Very much so! If you like a little heat, you can easily add chili flakes or Sriracha to your sauce mix or at the end of the cooking process. Adjust to taste—start with just a pinch, taste as you go, and add more if needed for your preferred spice level. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein: Your New Quick Dinner Delight This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a quick, customizable dinner that brings together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and chewy noodles in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AsianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs Substitute with shrimp or tofu if preferred1 tbsp soy sauce Gluten-free soy sauce can be used for a lighter option1 tsp cornstarch Helps tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce1 tsp sesame oil Enhances the dish's aromaFor the Noodles & Vegetables8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) Toss with sesame oil post-cooking2 tbsp vegetable oil Essential for sautéing4 cloves garlic, minced The star ingredient1 cup sliced bell peppers Use your favorite type1 cup shredded carrots Adds sweetness and vibrant color1 cup snap peas or snow peas Offers freshness and crunch3 green onions, sliced Perfect for garnish1 tsp fresh ginger, grated Optional, for extra warmth and spiceFor the Sauce3 tbsp soy sauce Main seasoning for depth1 tbsp oyster sauce Omit for vegetarian version1 tbsp hoisin sauce Adds sweetness1 tsp brown sugar Enhances sweetness1/4 cup chicken broth or water Adjusts sauce consistency1 tsp toasted sesame oil Infuses nutty flavor Equipment woklarge potMixing bowlskillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by slicing the boneless chicken into thin strips and placing them in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for about 5 to 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 4-5 minutes, until tender yet firm. Once cooked, drain the noodles and toss them with a splash of sesame oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of chicken broth or water. Set it aside for later use.Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a hot wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep it warm.In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and optional grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry these veggies for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet with the vegetables, then pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.Now, add the cooked lo mein noodles and sliced green onions to the skillet. Gently toss everything together for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are warmed through and evenly mixed with the sauce and vegetables. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure your wok is hot before adding oil for perfect sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan while sautéing the chicken for better browning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
