Jump to Recipe Print RecipeIn the hustle and bustle of my kitchen, there’s a shining star that never fails to bring the family together: Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. This quick dinner transforms simple ingredients into a delightful dish that rivals any takeout, all in under 30 minutes. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and chewy noodles wrapped in a savory garlic sauce, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a cherished weeknight staple in our home. Not only is it customizable to fit whatever we have on hand, but it’s also a surefire crowd-pleaser that effortlessly satisfies cravings for something hearty yet wholesome. Ready to create your own kitchen magic? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together! Why is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein a must-try? Simplicity: This dish comes together quickly with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights. Customizable: Use whatever protein or vegetables you have on hand, like shrimp or bok choy, to suit your preferences. Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic sauce elevates every bite, making it a delicious alternative to takeout. Family-Friendly: With its colorful presentation and delightful textures, this recipe appeals to kids and adults alike! Time-Saving: Ready in only 30 minutes, it’s an ideal solution for those evenings when time slips away. Comforting Delight: Enjoy a warm bowl of homemade goodness that feels like a warm hug after a long day! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients • Discover the essential components for this quick and flavorful dish! For the Chicken 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – The main protein; offers richness and sustenance; feel free to substitute with shrimp, tofu, or beef for variety. 1 tbsp soy sauce – Elevates umami flavor; perfect for marinating the chicken. 1 tsp cornstarch – Coats chicken for a tender and velvety texture. 1 tsp sesame oil – A nutty flavor enhancer; increase for a more aromatic touch. For the Noodles 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) – The hearty base; provides substance; you can use alternate noodles like udon or gluten-free varieties. For the Vegetables 2 tbsp vegetable oil – Essential for cooking; used to fry the chicken and vegetables. 4 cloves garlic, minced – The hallmark flavoring ingredient; imparts that beloved garlicky aroma. 1 cup sliced bell peppers – Adds vibrant color and crunch; can substitute with other vegetables like broccoli or bok choy. 1 cup shredded carrots – Contributes sweetness and texture; omitting will lessen sweetness. 1 cup snap peas or snow peas – Provides freshness; green beans can work as a replacement. 3 green onions, sliced – For garnish and mild flavor; chives can be used as an alternative. 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional) – Enhances flavor complexity; it can be omitted if not on hand. For the Sauce 3 tbsp soy sauce – The base for an umami-packed sauce. 1 tbsp oyster sauce – Provides depth; substitute with more soy sauce for a vegetarian option. 1 tbsp hoisin sauce – A touch of sweetness; teriyaki sauce can stand in if needed. 1 tsp brown sugar – Balances the overall flavors; you can omit for a less sweet taste. 1/4 cup chicken broth or water – Thins the sauce; vegetable broth works well as a substitute. 1 tsp toasted sesame oil – Adds a final aromatic flourish to your sauce. With all these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to crafting a delectable Garlic Chicken Lo Mein that will not only impress but also remind you of the joys of homemade cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Begin by slicing your chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 5-10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This will enhance its flavor and help achieve that tender texture you crave in your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Step 2: Cook the Noodles While the chicken marinates, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook 8 ounces of lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to package directions, usually about 6-8 minutes. When done, drain the noodles well and toss them in a little sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set them aside for later; they will absorb the delicious sauce and flavor of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Step 3: Prepare the Sauce In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce for your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Mix 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. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. This blend will beautifully coat your chicken and vegetables later in the cooking process. Step 4: Cook the Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken, spreading it out in a single layer. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. It’s important to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. After it’s done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. The enticing aroma that fills your kitchen will make it hard to resist the savory Garlic Chicken Lo Mein that’s coming together beautifully. Step 6: Stir-Fry the Vegetables Add the sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp. Keep the heat high to achieve a slight char, which adds depth to the flavors of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. This vibrant mix of veggies enhances both color and texture. Step 7: Combine Ingredients Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Allow it to simmer for about 1-2 minutes; this will help the flavors meld beautifully and thicken the sauce slightly, creating a rich coating for your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Step 8: Add the Noodles and Garnish Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles and sliced green onions to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine, ensuring the noodles are warmed through and well-coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute. Serve your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein immediately, garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of your homemade feast! Expert Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Marinating Matters: Ensure to marinate the chicken for at least 5-10 minutes; this step enhances flavor and tenderness, making your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein delectable. High Heat Cooking: Cook over medium-high heat for that slight char on chicken and veggies; this adds depth of flavor and avoids steaming, keeping textures crisp. Noodle Precautions: Don’t overcook the lo mein noodles; follow package instructions closely to ensure the perfect chewy texture that complements the sauce. Make It Your Own: Feel free to substitute proteins and vegetables based on your preferences—this recipe is wonderfully customizable to fit what you have at home! Leftover Love: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating with a splash of water to loosen the sauce for delicious second helpings! How to Store and Freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container, where they will keep for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing. Freezer: Freeze portions of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce and keep everything moist and flavorful. Serving Suggestions: For the best experience, serve it hot, garnished with fresh green onions or sesame seeds to brighten the dish after storing. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations Explore delightful twists to make your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein even more scrumptious! Shrimp Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a light, seafood twist that cooks quickly and adds a touch of elegance. Tofu Alternative: For a vegetarian delight, swap the chicken for tofu. Press it first for a firmer texture and extra absorption of flavors. Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce for a warm and invigorating boost that awakens the taste buds. Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, or zucchini, depending on what’s in season, for a fresh and colorful dish. Teriyaki Temptation: Replace the hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce for a different sweet flavor profile that still complements the garlic beautifully. Peanutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter to the sauce for a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to new heights. Noodle Twists: Try using rice noodles or zucchini noodles to change the dish’s texture and cater to gluten-free diets. Herb Infusion: For an aromatic touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or basil on top before serving to brighten every bite. At the heart of this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is the joy of customization. You might also enjoy trying it alongside a comforting bowl of Chicken Etouffee Savory or a delicious side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken to round off your meal! Make Ahead Options Preparing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, chop the vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas) and place them in a sealed container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the noodles, sauté the garlic and vegetables, and toss everything together with the pre-marinated chicken and sauce. This approach ensures you maintain the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures, resulting in a delectable homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort! What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Experience a delightful meal surrounded by vibrant flavors and comforting textures that beautifully complement your lo mein creation. Steamed Broccoli: Provides a fresh and crunchy contrast, adding nutrients and a pop of green to your dish. Perfect for dipping into the savory sauce. Egg Rolls: Crispy and savory, these rolls bring a satisfying crunch and can be filled with any mix of veggies or protein, making a perfect pairing. Sesame Cucumber Salad: This cool, refreshing salad balances the rich flavors of the lo mein, adding a delightful crunch and a hint of acidity. Fried Rice: Classic and satisfying, fried rice can soak up any leftover sauce while infusing your meal with an extra layer of bold flavor. Jasmine Tea: The floral and slightly sweet notes of jasmine tea cleanse the palate and enhance the comforting essence of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein dinner. Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet dessert offers a luscious end to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the savory and garlicky main dish, leaving everyone satisfied and happy. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs lend a bit more moisture and richness, while breasts are leaner. If you prefer, shrimp, tofu, or beef are excellent alternatives that mix well with the dish. How should I store leftovers of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Very straightforward! Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They’ll last for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Can Garlic Chicken Lo Mein be frozen? Yes! If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze portions of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bags with the date. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water to keep it moist. What should I do if my noodles turn mushy? Great question! Noodles can become mushy if overcooked, so it’s important to follow the package times carefully. If they do turn out soggy, try adding them to the pan last when you combine all the ingredients, and toss gently to avoid further cooking. Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Definitely! To keep it gluten-free, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce. If you have a shellfish allergy, you can skip the oyster sauce or replace it with more soy sauce. Always check ingredient labels if you have specific allergies or dietary needs. Can I customize the vegetables used in Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? The more the merrier! This recipe is highly customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Feel free to substitute bell peppers with broccoli, bok choy, or even mushrooms, and add extra crunch with water chestnuts or bean sprouts if you like! Easy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein: A Tasty 30-Minute Dinner No ratings yet Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a quick and customizable dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and chewy noodles in a flavorful garlic sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ChineseCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs The main protein; offers richness and sustenance; feel free to substitute with shrimp, tofu, or beef for variety.1 tbsp soy sauce Elevates umami flavor; perfect for marinating the chicken.1 tsp cornstarch Coats chicken for a tender and velvety texture.1 tsp sesame oil A nutty flavor enhancer; increase for a more aromatic touch.For the Noodles8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) The hearty base; provides substance; you can use alternate noodles like udon or gluten-free varieties.For the Vegetables2 tbsp vegetable oil Essential for cooking; used to fry the chicken and vegetables.4 cloves garlic, minced The hallmark flavoring ingredient; imparts that beloved garlicky aroma.1 cup sliced bell peppers Adds vibrant color and crunch; can substitute with other vegetables like broccoli or bok choy.1 cup shredded carrots Contributes sweetness and texture; omitting will lessen sweetness.1 cup snap peas or snow peas Provides freshness; green beans can work as a replacement.3 green onions, sliced For garnish and mild flavor; chives can be used as an alternative.1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional) Enhances flavor complexity; it can be omitted if not on hand.For the Sauce3 tbsp soy sauce The base for an umami-packed sauce.1 tbsp oyster sauce Provides depth; substitute with more soy sauce for a vegetarian option.1 tbsp hoisin sauce A touch of sweetness; teriyaki sauce can stand in if needed.1 tsp brown sugar Balances the overall flavors; you can omit for a less sweet taste.1/4 cup chicken broth or water Thins the sauce; vegetable broth works well as a substitute.1 tsp toasted sesame oil Adds a final aromatic flourish to your sauce. Equipment large potwok or large skillet Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Lo MeinBegin by slicing your chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 5-10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.While the chicken marinates, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook 8 ounces of lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to package directions, usually about 6-8 minutes. When done, drain the noodles well and toss them in a little sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set them aside for later.In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce for your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Mix 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. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves.Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.Add the sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow it to simmer for about 1-2 minutes.Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles and sliced green onions to the skillet. Toss everything together gently and cook for an additional minute. Serve immediately, garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg NotesEnsure to marinate the chicken for at least 5-10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
