The moment I hear the gentle sizzle of garlic kissing hot oil, I know I’m just moments away from a comforting dinner that warms both my heart and my palate. Enter my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein—an easy, weeknight solution when the takeout menu just doesn’t cut it anymore. It’s hard to resist those fragrant, saucy noodles intermingled with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, all tossed together in a quick yet flavorful sauce that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
This dish offers a delightful blend of classic Chinese takeout vibes, minus the guilt. Whether you’re a busy parent searching for a meal the whole family can enjoy or a culinary enthusiast wanting to craft a homemade favorite, this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is your answer. Plus, its customizable nature means you can swap in your choice of protein or seasonal vegetables, making it a delicious option any night of the week. Ready to create a dish that impresses without the stress? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why will you love Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Infused with fresh garlic and a savory sauce, each bite is rich and satisfying.
Customizable Delight: Easily swap proteins or add your favorite seasonal vegetables for a personal touch.
Healthier Option: Enjoy the comforting flavors of takeout while knowing it’s made from wholesome ingredients.
Family Favorite: With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it’s a guaranteed hit for the whole family!
Experience a bowlful of happiness tonight with your own homemade version of this dish!
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast or Thighs – Main protein source providing tender meat; substitute with shrimp, tofu, or beef as desired.
• Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and depth; use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
• Cornstarch – Aids in marinating chicken for tenderness and thickens the sauce.
• Sesame Oil – Imparts aromatic flavor; a small amount is perfect for marinating and cooking.
For the Noodles
• Lo Mein Noodles (or Spaghetti) – Base of the dish, offering that satisfying chewy texture.
For Stir-Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for stir-frying; can also use canola or peanut oil.
• Garlic – Key aromatic ingredient that brings vibrant flavor; always opt for freshly minced garlic.
• Bell Peppers, Carrots, and Snap Peas – Provide crunch and color; feel free to customize based on what’s in season or your personal favorites!
• Green Onions – Fresh garnish adds flavor and color; substitute with chives if needed.
For the Sauce
• Fresh Ginger (optional) – Adds a hint of warmth and complexity; can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand.
• Oyster Sauce – Contributes a rich umami flavor to the sauce.
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness and richness; can swap with soy sauce for a lighter option.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the dish with sweetness; honey can be a lovely alternative.
• Chicken Broth or Water – Provides liquid for the sauce; chicken broth enhances the savory flavors significantly.
Ready to whip up your own delightful version of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
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Marinate: Begin by combining sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a bowl. Let it marinate for 5-10 minutes to infuse flavor and ensure tenderness.
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Cook Noodles: While the chicken marinates, prepare the lo mein noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain them and toss with a splash of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
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Whisk Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the key sauce ingredients: soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, and a dash of sesame oil. Set this flavorful mix aside.
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Sauté Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside temporarily.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, add minced garlic (and grated ginger if using). Sauté until fragrant, taking care not to burn it, which should take about 30 seconds.
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Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry these vibrant vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender and colorful.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour the whisked sauce over everything. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the mixture.
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Mix in Noodles: Finally, add the cooked noodles and sliced green onions to the pan. Toss everything gently until well combined and heated through. Serve hot for a delightful meal!
Optional: Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds for a lovely finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Chicken Lo Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it flavorful and preventing dryness. Additionally, you can cook the lo mein noodles and toss them in a bit of sesame oil to prevent sticking, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy your homemade dinner, simply sauté the garlic and vegetables, add the marinated chicken, and pour in the sauce, simmering until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll have a quick, delicious meal that tastes just as fresh and delightful as if you made it from scratch!
What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Imagine a dinner table brimming with vibrant sides that perfectly elevate your cozy, garlicky meal.
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Steamed Dumplings: These tender morsels add an excellent chewy contrast, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
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Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad balances the richness of the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with its cool, tangy flavors.
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, spring rolls provide a delightful crunch and can be stuffed with your favorite veggies or shrimp.
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Sesame Green Beans: Stir-fried to perfection, the slight crunch and savory sesame dressing complement the noodle dish beautifully. Their freshness enhances every bite.
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Sweet and Sour Pineapple Salad: This fruity side offers a lovely contrast to the savory noodles, brightening the meal with tropical sweetness.
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Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, miso soup provides a lovely umami finish to your meal, rounding out the experience while being light on the palate.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: Refreshing and floral, a cup of this tea soothes the senses and pairs wonderfully with Asian cuisine.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat wraps up your dinner in a delightful way, offering a creamy, tropical ending to the garlicky affair.
Serve these alongside your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein for an inviting and unforgettable dinner experience!
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein your own with these fun variations!
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Shrimp Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a quick-cooking, seafood twist. Shrimp cooks in just minutes, bringing a lovely sweetness to the dish.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with firm tofu for a plant-based delight. Just sauté the tofu until golden for a satisfying texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the stir-fry for a fiery boost that ignites your taste buds. Start small and adjust to your heat preference!
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Zoodles: Swap out traditional noodles for zucchini noodles (zoodles) to create a low-carb, fresh alternative. The delicate taste of zoodles will still soak up that delicious sauce!
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Extra Veggie Medley: Mix in broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy to pack your meal with vibrant colors and nutrients. Don’t hesitate to use any seasonal veggies you love!
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Ginger Infusion: Incorporate freshly grated ginger for an extra zing and warmth. This aromatic addition beautifully complements the garlic.
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Sesame Crunch: Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch. It adds an interesting texture that contrasts wonderfully with the soft noodles.
Each variation brings its own personality to the dish, making it truly yours.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Room Temperature: Do not leave Garlic Chicken Lo Mein out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
Freezer: You can freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in airtight containers or freezer bags, where it will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a pan with a little water.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop rather than the microwave to keep the noodles from getting mushy. Enjoy your meal!
Expert Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
- Fresh Garlic: Always use fresh, minced garlic for the best flavor; avoid powdered garlic as it lacks the pungency needed in this dish.
- Avoid Overcooking: Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender but fully cooked to ensure a juicy texture in the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.
- Custom Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables to keep the dish fresh and exciting for your taste buds.
- Thick Sauce: If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer longer to reach your desired thickness before adding the noodles.
- Store Correctly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
You can use chicken breast or thighs for this recipe as they provide tenderness and flavor. If you prefer something else, feel free to substitute them with shrimp, tofu, or even beef—it’s all about what you enjoy most!
How should I store leftovers of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to maintain that delicious moisture.
Can I freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely! You can freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. For the best texture, warm it on the stovetop with a little water to keep the noodles from getting mushy.
What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce isn’t thick enough, simply let it simmer a little longer before mixing in the noodles. This will allow it to reduce and become richer. If you’d like an even thicker sauce, consider mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, and stir that into the sauce as it simmers.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
When preparing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, be mindful of allergies. The soy sauce contains gluten, so using gluten-free soy sauce is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. As for pets, it’s best to keep the dish away from them, especially due to the garlic and onions, which can be harmful to dogs and cats.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?
Cooked chicken should be tender and no longer pink in the center. A good way to check is by using a meat thermometer—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe and juicy for your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein!
Savory Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ready in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by combining sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a bowl. Let it marinate for 5-10 minutes to infuse flavor and ensure tenderness.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the lo mein noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain them and toss with a splash of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the key sauce ingredients: soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, and a dash of sesame oil. Set this flavorful mix aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside temporarily.
- In the same pan, add minced garlic (and grated ginger if using). Sauté until fragrant, taking care not to burn it, which should take about 30 seconds.
- Toss in bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry these vibrant vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender and colorful.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour the whisked sauce over everything. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the mixture.
- Finally, add the cooked noodles and sliced green onions to the pan. Toss everything gently until well combined and heated through. Serve hot for a delightful meal!