Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

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If you are searching for a delightful and comforting weeknight dinner, this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Packed with savory garlic notes, tender chicken, and crisp, colorful vegetables all tossed in a luscious sauce, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, effortlessly bringing a restaurant-quality meal to your own kitchen. Whether you’re a noodle lover or new to stir-fried dishes, this recipe is bound to win you over with its simplicity and satisfying taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing fancy here—just straightforward ingredients that you probably already have or can easily find at your local store. Each component plays an important role: from the fresh veggies adding crunch and vibrant hues to the trio of sauces that create a rich, savory glaze that clings to every noodle and piece of chicken.

• 8 oz lo mein noodles: The perfect soft yet chewy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly: Cook quickly and evenly for juicy, tender bites.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Ideal for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star ingredient that delivers bold, aromatic punch.
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green): Adds sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
• 1 cup broccoli florets: Brings crunch and a healthy green freshness.
• 1 large carrot, julienned: Adds a subtle sweetness and bright orange tone.
• 1/2 cup sugar snap peas: Provides a crisp bite and naturally sweet flavor.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Essential salty depth that ties the ingredients together.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Lends a rich umami flavor and slight sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Gives a hint of smokiness and complex sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A little drizzle adds a fragrant, nutty finish.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and warmth.
• 3 green onions, chopped: Fresh, mild onion flavor to brighten the dish.
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional): Adds a lovely visual touch and a delicate crunch.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by preparing the lo mein noodles according to the package directions until they’re perfectly al dente — tender but with a bit of bite. Once done, drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to absorb all the flavors later on.

Step 2: Stir-fry the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the thinly sliced chicken breast and stir-fry until each piece turns golden and is fully cooked through. This step locks in juicy tenderness, so be sure not to overcrowd the pan. Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside for now.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Quickly stir-fry the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not brown—this releases its wonderful aroma, setting the flavor foundation for the whole dish.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, julienned carrots, and sugar snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften slightly but maintain a crisp freshness, giving the lo mein that irresistible contrast between tender noodles and crunchy veggies.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly so that every bite of chicken and vegetable is coated in that bold and savory sauce.

Step 6: Add Noodles and Toss

Next, add the cooked lo mein noodles into the skillet. Using tongs, toss all the ingredients together gently but thoroughly, making sure the sauce clings to every strand and piece. This step transforms the dish into a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Step 7: Let Flavors Meld

Allow the noodles and sauce to cook together for an additional 2 minutes. This gives time for the garlic and sauces to meld beautifully with the chicken and vegetables, making each mouthful bursting with flavor.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds on top for that finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh green onions add a bright, zesty note that cuts through the richness of the sauce, while toasted sesame seeds contribute lovely texture and a subtle nuttiness. Don’t be shy about adding a handful right before serving—it elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed dumplings or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. If you want something heartier, a bowl of hot miso soup or some crispy spring rolls will round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party, consider serving the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe family-style in a large serving bowl garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds. Or, place individual portions in colorful bowls with a wedge of lime for a zesty twist. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop a bit more overnight, making your next meal just as delightful.

Freezing

While noodle dishes often lose a bit of texture after freezing, you can still freeze the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to refresh the noodles and prevent sticking. Alternatively, a quick microwave session with a loosely covered dish works well when you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Shrimp, beef strips, or tofu all work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so your protein is cooked perfectly.

What if I don’t have all the sauces listed?

No worries—soy sauce is the key flavor base, so try to keep that on hand. You can improvise with just soy sauce and a touch of honey or brown sugar for sweetness if you’re missing oyster or hoisin sauce.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap traditional lo mein noodles for gluten-free noodles, and use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives to keep it safe for gluten sensitivities.

Is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe healthy?

This dish balances lean protein with fresh vegetables and moderate oil, making it a wholesome meal. You can further lighten it by reducing oil or increasing veggie portions without sacrificing taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace chicken with extra vegetables or a plant-based protein like tempeh or seitan, and remember to substitute oyster sauce with a vegetarian equivalent or more soy sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a homemade Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe that’s packed with fresh veggies and that perfect garlicky goodness. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, making it a go-to dinner in my home and hopefully yours too. So grab those noodles and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

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