Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

This Authentic Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings the taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant right to your kitchen! Perfect for any occasion, it delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just 30 minutes. With fresh vegetables and tender chicken, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also provides a nourishing meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Flavorful Ingredients: A combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and fresh veggies creates a rich flavor profile that’s better than takeout.
• Customizable Options: You can easily add or substitute vegetables based on what you have at home, allowing for endless variations.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of this dish make it beautiful to serve at gatherings or family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for stir-frying ingredients evenly at high heat, ensuring everything cooks perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken and preparing sauces without creating a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing chicken and vegetables easy and precise.

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb chicken breast (sliced into 1/4 strips, against the grain)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1 tbsp shaoxing apple vinegar
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 medium carrot (sliced into 1/2 inch matchsticks)
• 3 cups cabbage (thinly sliced into ribbons)
• 1/4 white onion (sliced into 1/2 inch strips)
• 5 scallions (chopped into 2 inch pieces, greens and whites separated)
• 1 tbsp ginger (minced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp shaoxing apple vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1/2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp water
• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp msg (optional)
• 1 lb lo mein noodles (fresh; if using dried noodles, use 1/2 lb of dried noodles and cook to package directions)
• 3 tbsp neutral oil (I used avocado oil)
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil

How to Make Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Slice the chicken breast into 1/4 strips against the grain and place in a bowl. Marinate with:
* salt,
* white pepper,
* light soy sauce,
* shaoxing apple vinegar,
* corn starch,
* avocado oil.

Let marinate for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

On a tray, add:
* sliced carrots,
* thinly sliced cabbage,
* sliced onion,
* chopped scallions (separating whites from greens),
* minced garlic,
* minced ginger.

Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:
* light soy sauce,
* oyster sauce,
* dark soy sauce,
* shaoxing apple vinegar,
* sesame oil,
* white pepper,
* sugar,
* water,
* cornstarch,
(msg if using).

Add this mixture to your tray of vegetables.

Step 4: Cook Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add lo mein noodles and cook about 2 minutes less than package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, drain again, then coat with sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook Chicken

In a wok over high heat, add neutral oil until just smoking. Add marinated chicken; sauté for 2–3 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from wok and set aside.

Step 6: Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same wok, sauté garlic and ginger for about 15 seconds. Then add scallion whites and prepared vegetables. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until slightly wilted and charred.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add lo mein noodles to the wok along with cooked chicken and stir-fry sauce. Mix thoroughly for about 1–2 minutes until everything is well coated in sauce. Finish by mixing in scallion greens before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Lo Mein!

How to Serve Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

Serving Authentic Chicken Lo Mein is easy and allows for creativity. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, zesty taste that complements the dish.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick of heat!

Pair with Crispy Spring Rolls

• Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crunchy rolls are perfect for adding texture and flavor alongside the lo mein.

Add a Side of Soup

• Hot and Sour Soup: A spicy and tangy soup that balances the savory noodles perfectly.
• Miso Soup: Light and comforting, this option enhances your meal without overpowering it.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli or Bok Choy: These greens add color and nutrition, making your plate visually appealing.

Include Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled Carrots and Radishes: The acidity of pickles cuts through the richness of the lo mein, providing a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

Creating the best version of Authentic Chicken Lo Mein requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
• Properly Marinate Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its taste and tenderness.
• Cook Noodles al Dente: Undercook the noodles slightly so they maintain their texture when mixed with the sauce.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying over high heat ensures that you achieve a nice char on the ingredients.
• Sauce Thickness Matters: Adjust cornstarch in your sauce to achieve your desired thickness—too much can make it gloopy.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

Complementing your Authentic Chicken Lo Mein with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Egg Drop Soup: A light, savory soup with silky egg ribbons, perfect for starting your meal.
2. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken add heartiness to your dinner.
3. Fried Rice: A classic side that’s flavorful and satisfying, making it a great pairing with noodles.
4. Chinese Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in vinegar give a crispy contrast to the warm lo mein.
5. Sesame Broccoli Salad: This salad brings crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
6. Fortune Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with these delightful treats!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Authentic Chicken Lo Mein  can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the marinade time: Failing to marinate the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to allow at least 15-20 minutes for the chicken to soak in all those delicious seasonings.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking lo mein noodles longer than necessary can make them mushy. Aim for al dente texture by cooking them just a couple of minutes less than package directions.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or pre-packaged vegetables can compromise the freshness of your dish. Always opt for fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
• Not heating the wok enough: A cold wok will not give your chicken or veggies that desirable char. Preheat your wok until it’s smoking slightly before adding any ingredients.
• Neglecting to separate scallion parts: Mixing scallion greens with whites too early can lead to burning. Sauté the whites first and add the greens at the end for better taste and presentation.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

• Place cooled Chicken Lo Mein in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months without losing much quality.

Reheating Authentic Chicken Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the lo mein on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil and stir-fry until hot, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Authentic Chicken Lo Mein?

Authentic Chicken Lo Mein is a popular Chinese noodle dish made with stir-fried chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces. It’s quick and easy to prepare at home!

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I make my Chicken Lo Mein spicy?

To add some heat, include chili sauce or red pepper flakes when mixing your sauce. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

What vegetables can I add to Authentic Chicken Lo Mein?

You can customize your dish with bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Chicken Lo Mein recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with different proteins and vegetables based on what you love. Try this recipe today and enjoy restaurant-quality noodles right at home!