Chicken Lo Mein

Quick Benefits

Chicken Lo Mein is the ultimate weeknight meal: quick, satisfying, and packed with savory Asian-inspired flavors. This one-pan wonder is brimming with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles—all coated in a deliciously glossy soy-garlic-ginger sauce. It’s healthier than takeout, easy to customize, and ready in under 30 minutes!

Essential Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp canola oil
  • 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (for chicken marinade)
  • 8 oz mushrooms, thinly sliced (baby bellas or shiitake)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1½ cups Napa cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup matchstick carrots
  • 12 oz pasta, cooked (Lo Mein noodles, spaghetti, or ramen work well)

Sauce Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tsp light brown sugar

Preparation Steps

  1. Cook the chicken:
    Heat canola oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add chicken, garlic, ginger, and 2 tbsp soy sauce. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until the chicken is browned and mostly cooked. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the vegetables:
    In the same skillet, add mushrooms and onions. Cook for 3–4 minutes until onions are soft and mushrooms are golden. Add Napa cabbage and carrots, and stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes.
  3. Prepare the sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cornstarch, sesame oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
  4. Combine:
    Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a boil for 1 minute until thickened.
  5. Finish the dish:
    Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss in the cooked noodles. Stir everything until well coated in the sauce. Serve warm.

Health Benefits

  • Lean protein: Chicken breast is high in protein and low in fat.
  • Vegetable-rich: Loaded with nutrient-dense veggies like cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms.
  • Lighter than takeout: Less sodium and oil than typical restaurant Lo Mein.
  • Whole food ingredients: You control the quality—no mystery sauces or additives.

Serving Suggestions

  • Main Course: Serve in large bowls with chopsticks for a fun, interactive experience.
  • Pair it with: Spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or a cucumber salad.
  • For a dinner spread: Offer with jasmine rice, egg drop soup, or a fruit-based dessert like mango sticky rice.
  • Beverage pairing: Iced green tea, jasmine tea, or light lager beer.

Creative Variations

  • Swap the protein: Try shrimp, beef, tofu, or tempeh.
  • Change the noodles: Use ramen, rice noodles, soba, or even zucchini noodles.
  • Add heat: Mix in chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, or sriracha.
  • Extra veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, baby corn, or snap peas make excellent additions.
  • Nutty twist: Top with chopped peanuts or a drizzle of peanut sauce for fusion flavor.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
  • Freeze: While not ideal (noodles can get mushy), you can freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro Tips

  • Slice chicken thinly: For even cooking and authentic texture.
  • High heat is key: Stir-frying quickly preserves the crunch of veggies.
  • Cook pasta slightly al dente: It will absorb the sauce better when tossed in.
  • Prep ahead: Cut veggies and mix sauce before cooking to streamline the process.
  • Use sesame oil sparingly: It adds flavor but is potent—don’t overdo it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or GF spaghetti.

Q: What noodles are best for Lo Mein?
A: Traditional Lo Mein noodles are ideal, but spaghetti, ramen, or yakisoba noodles work just as well.

Q: Can I meal prep this dish?
A: Absolutely! It reheats beautifully and holds up well in the fridge.

Q: How do I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Skip the chicken and use tofu or tempeh. Use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: Can I double the sauce?
A: Yes! If you like it saucier, just double the sauce ingredients and simmer slightly longer to thicken.

Nutrition Facts (Per serving, approximate – based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 430
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: ~600mg

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