Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I walked past a nearby Chinese restaurant, the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and simmering chicken wafted through the air, instantly evoking memories of cozy family dinners. That’s when I knew I had to bring that warm feeling home with my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. This quick and flavorful dish is so easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave homemade comfort without the fuss. Packed with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, it’s not just delicious but a great way to sneak in some nutrition too. Plus, you can switch up the protein to suit what you have on hand, making it as versatile as it is satisfying. Ready to create your own takeout night? Let’s dive into this delightful and heartwarming recipe together! Why Is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: The rich, garlicky sauce envelops tender chicken and crisp veggies, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave you wanting more. Quick to Whip Up: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights. You can have a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen! Endless Variations: Don’t have chicken? No problem! Switch it up with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a customized delight. This versatility makes it a staple in any home cook’s arsenal. Nutrition Boost: Packed with colorful vegetables, Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is not just a comfort food but a way to sneak in those essential nutrients. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Serve with steamed dumplings or a crisp Asian cucumber salad for the complete experience! If you enjoy this effortless dish, you might also love my Lemon Chicken Pasta for another quick and tasty meal idea. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients A quick overview of what you’ll need to create this delightful dish! For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs – Essential protein; thinly sliced for speedy cooking. You can also use shrimp, tofu, or beef if you prefer. For the Sauce Soy Sauce – The backbone of flavor; enhances the umami taste in your garlic chicken lo mein. Oyster Sauce – Adds a rich depth; substitute it with hoisin sauce for a vegetarian twist. Hoisin Sauce – A sweet and tangy flavor booster that elevates the dish. Brown Sugar – Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness. Chicken Broth or Water – To dilute the sauce; feel free to use vegetable broth for a veggie-friendly version. Toasted Sesame Oil – A finishing touch that amplifies the flavor; lightly heat it before serving for an extra aroma. For the Noodles Lo Mein Noodles (or Spaghetti) – The perfect base; if you can’t find lo mein, spaghetti will do just fine. For the Stir-Fry Vegetable Oil – Ideal for sautéing; opt for a neutral oil like canola or sunflower. Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – The star ingredient; aromatic and loaded with flavor. Bell Peppers (1 cup, sliced) – Bring color and a sweet crunch; any variety works wonders. Shredded Carrots (1 cup) – Offers sweetness and vibrant color; substitute zucchini or edamame for a twist. Snap Peas or Snow Peas (1 cup) – Adds delightful crunch; string beans make a great alternative. Green Onions (3, sliced) – Fresh garnish that brings a subtle onion flavor; pickled onions are a nice substitute. Fresh Ginger (1 tsp, grated, optional) – Infuses warmth and depth; you can skip it if you’re out. Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to get cooking and relish in the heartwarming flavors of garlic chicken lo mein! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a mixing bowl, combine thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Toss until the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak in. This step is essential for ensuring a savory base for your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Step 2: Cook Noodles While the chicken marinates, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and prepare the lo mein noodles according to package directions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and toss them with a drizzle of sesame oil to prevent sticking, creating a delicious base for your dish. Step 3: Prepare the Sauce In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, and toasted sesame oil until well combined. This sauce will bring that delicious umami flavor vibe to your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, blending sweet and savory perfectly for a rich coating. Step 4: Sauté Chicken Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, then remove it from the pan and set it aside. Step 5: Sauté Aromatics In the same wok, add a little more vegetable oil if necessary, and toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic, which will enhance the flavors of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein beautifully. Step 6: Stir-fry Vegetables Add the sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender, maintaining their vibrant colors. This step adds freshness and crunch, balancing the hearty chicken in your dish. Step 7: Combine and Finish Return the cooked chicken to the vegetable mixture in the wok. Pour in the prepared sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring well to ensure all ingredients are coated. The sauce should thicken slightly, creating a velvety finish for your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Step 8: Toss with Noodles Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles and sliced green onions to the wok, tossing gently to combine everything. Continue stirring over medium heat for a minute to warm the noodles through and ensure everything is evenly coated in that delicious sauce. Serve immediately for a comforting homemade meal! Make Ahead Options These Garlic Chicken Lo Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken (combining it with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil) up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s loaded with flavor when you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping them fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply cook the marinated chicken, sauté your prepped veggies, and follow the final steps to toss everything together with the cooked noodles. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal on the table in no time! What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein As you savor the deliciousness of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, consider rounding out your meal with these delightful pairings for a truly satisfying experience. Steamed Dumplings: These bite-sized treats add a satisfying texture that complements the saucy noodles perfectly, making them a great appetizer or side dish. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with crispy cucumbers and a tangy dressing provides a delightful crunch, balancing the richness of the lo mein. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in a savory sesame glaze, these green beans infuse a nutty flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall taste profile. Egg Rolls: Crunchy on the outside with savory fillings, these make a classic pairing with any Asian dish, adding a fun, crunchy contrast that everyone loves. Miso Soup: This light and comforting soup warms the palate, acting as a gentle precursor to the robust flavors of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of this traditional Japanese rice wine, which pairs seamlessly with the flavors of garlic, soy, and sesame, enhancing the dining experience. Each of these options offers different textures and flavors to create a well-rounded meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to suit your taste buds with these delightful options! Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Sauté shrimp until pink and opaque, ensuring a seafood-loving delight. Tofu Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with cubed firm tofu. Press to remove excess moisture for the best texture. Beef Alternative: Swap in thinly sliced beef for a hearty variation. Marinade just like the chicken for robust flavor! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles to make this dish friendly for those avoiding gluten. Deliciousness knows no restrictions! Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the stir-fry for an exciting heat level. A little goes a long way in enhancing flavor! Veggie-Heavy: Load up on your favorite vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or bok choy for a fresh and vibrant dish. The more, the merrier! Exotic Flavor: Introduce a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a unique tropical twist. This creamy addition makes your dish delightfully bold! Herbed Freshness: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil after plating for added aroma and a pop of color. It makes a world of difference! Feeling inspired? Check out my Lemon Chicken Pasta for another delightful, customizable recipe! How to Store and Freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Fridge: Store your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness. Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers, but avoid freezing with the noodles if you want the best texture when reheating. Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then gently warm in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out, ensuring a delicious meal every time! Expert Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Marinate Wisely: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This step elevates the flavor, ensuring your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is succulent and savory. Avoid Overcooking: Stir-fry vegetables just until crisp-tender. Overcooking leads to mushy veggies that lose their delightful crunch and vibrant color. Balance the Sauce: Taste and adjust the sauce before adding it to the pan. If it’s too salty, a pinch of sugar can help balance flavors for the perfect Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. Noodle Choice: If using spaghetti instead of lo mein, be mindful of cooking time—spaghetti may require slightly less time. Ensure they are not overcooked! Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container. Remember, the dish can last up to 3 days; just add a splash of water when reheating to keep it moist. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe? I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, as they are tender and cook quickly. When selecting chicken, look for a vibrant pink color without any dark spots, which can indicate spoilage. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can switch up the protein and use shrimp, tofu, or beef for delicious variations! How should I store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Store your leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Can I freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein? Absolutely! You can freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein for up to 2 months. I suggest packaging the chicken and vegetables separately from the noodles to preserve the texture. Just ensure they’re in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop. What if my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein turns out too salty? If your dish becomes overly salty, don’t worry! Try adding a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Alternatively, you can incorporate more vegetables, which can absorb some saltiness. This will lighten the flavor profile while still delivering a delicious experience! Can I make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free? Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. You can also ensure that your other sauces, like the oyster and hoisin sauces, are gluten-free as well. This adaptation will allow you to still enjoy this comforting dish without compromising on flavor! Are there any common ingredients that can trigger allergies in this recipe? Definitely keep an eye out for allergies, as both soy sauce and sesame oil can be common allergens. If you or your loved ones have allergies, consider substituting soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free option and using canola or olive oil instead of sesame oil. Always double-check your ingredients to stay safe! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein: A Cozy Homemade Delight Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a quick and flavorful dish, perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich garlic sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ChineseCalories: 420 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs thinly slicedFor the Sauce1/4 cup Soy Sauce2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce or hoisin sauce for vegetarian1 tablespoon Hoisin Sauce1 tablespoon Brown Sugar1/4 cup Chicken Broth or Water or vegetable broth1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil lightly heatedFor the Noodles8 ounces Lo Mein Noodles (or Spaghetti)For the Stir-Fry2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil or canola/sunflower oil4 cloves Garlic minced1 cup Bell Peppers sliced1 cup Shredded Carrots1 cup Snap Peas or Snow Peas3 Green Onions sliced1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger grated, optional Equipment wokMixing bowlpotSkillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Lo MeinIn a mixing bowl, combine thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Toss until the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for 5-10 minutes.While the chicken marinates, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to package directions, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and toss with sesame oil to prevent sticking.In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, and toasted sesame oil until well combined.Heat a large wok over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, then set aside.In the same wok, add more vegetable oil if necessary and toss in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.Add sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.Return the cooked chicken to the wok. Pour in the sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring well.Finally, add cooked lo mein noodles and sliced green onions, tossing gently to combine. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of water when reheating to keep it moist. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
