Minute Chicken Lo Mein Quick and Tasty Recipe

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Are you craving a quick and tasty dinner? Look no further than this Minute Chicken Lo Mein recipe! I’ll show you how to whip up this delicious dish in no time. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a savory sauce, it’s perfect for any night. Plus, it’s flexible! You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Healthy Option: Packed with colorful vegetables and lean chicken, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz lo mein noodles

– 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced

– 1 carrot, julienned

– 3 green onions, sliced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

– Salt and pepper to taste

To make Minute Chicken Lo Mein, gather all these ingredients. The lo mein noodles are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavors well.

Use fresh chicken breast for the best taste and texture. Thinly slice it to help it cook fast. The soy sauce and sesame oil add rich umami flavor.

For veggies, I love using broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. They bring color and crunch! Green onions add a fresh finish.

Don’t forget the garlic and ginger! They give the dish a nice kick. Season your chicken with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is tasty.

Finally, the cornstarch mixed with water will thicken your sauce. It helps coat everything and makes it all come together.

Now that you know the ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Noodles

To cook the lo mein noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of lo mein noodles. Cook them for about 4-6 minutes or until they are al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite. After cooking, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking. This keeps them from getting too soft. Set the noodles aside for later.

Sautéing the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. Season 1 lb of thinly sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pan and stir-fry it for about 5-7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Stir-frying the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a splash more sesame oil if needed. Start by tossing in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. Stir-fry these for 30 seconds. Next, add 1 cup of sliced bell peppers. Cook them for about 2 minutes. Then, add 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1 julienned carrot. Continue stir-frying for 3 more minutes until all the veggies are tender but still crisp.

Combining Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of soy sauce over everything. Stir well to mix the chicken and vegetables. Now, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the pan. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Thickening the Sauce

To thicken the sauce, pour in the cornstarch mixture. This is made by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens. This should take about 1-2 minutes. You want the sauce to coat the chicken and veggies well.

Finishing Touches

Remove the pan from heat. Fold in 3 sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning. Add more soy sauce if you want extra flavor. Enjoy your Minute Chicken Lo Mein!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Quick Cooking

Preparing Ingredients Ahead of Time:

Get everything ready before you start cooking. Chop the vegetables, slice the chicken, and measure the sauces. This makes cooking fast and easy. When you have all your ingredients prepped, you can cook without delays.

Using Pre-Sliced Chicken and Vegetables:

Save time by buying pre-sliced chicken and veggies. Many stores offer these options. This way, you skip the cutting and can focus on cooking. This small change makes your weeknight dinner quicker.

Achieving Authentic Flavor

Recommendations for Additional Sauces:

To add depth, try using oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. These sauces bring rich flavors and a hint of sweetness. You can mix them with soy sauce for a tasty twist.

Best Oils to Use:

Sesame oil is key for flavor. It adds a nutty taste that works well with Asian dishes. You can also use peanut oil for a different flavor. Both oils help enhance your dish.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Ideal Serving Bowls:

Choose shallow bowls for serving. They allow for easy mixing and eating. Plus, they show off the colorful lo mein.

Garnishes for Visual Appeal:

Top your lo mein with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. They add color and crunch. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts also gives a nice texture. These simple touches make your dish look gourmet.

Pro Tips

  1. Cook Noodles Al Dente: Make sure to cook your lo mein noodles just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during the stir-frying process.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and ginger will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. Avoid using pre-packaged ingredients when possible.
  3. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce or salt as needed to suit your preference.
  4. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like snap peas or baby corn according to your taste or what’s in season.

Variations

Substitutions for Ingredients

If you want to mix things up, consider these options:

Alternative Proteins: You can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp. Tofu adds a nice texture and can soak up flavors well. Shrimp cooks quickly and gives a different taste.

Veggies You Can Use Instead: You can use any veggies you have on hand. Try snap peas, carrots, or bok choy. Each will add color and crunch.

Flavor Enhancements

Looking to spice things up? Here are some fun ideas:

Spicy Options: Add chili oil or chili flakes for a kick. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can always add more if you like it hot!

Sweet and Sour Twist with Pineapple: For a sweet touch, toss in some pineapple chunks. This adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

Dietary Adjustments

Need to cater to specific diets? Here’s how:

Gluten-Free Alternatives: Use gluten-free noodles instead of lo mein noodles. Rice noodles or zucchini noodles work well too. Just adjust the cooking time for each type.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options: To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken. Use tofu and add more veggies for protein. For vegan, ensure the soy sauce is vegan-friendly.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

Store your Minute Chicken Lo Mein in airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic work well. Let the dish cool down before sealing it. This keeps your meal fresh and tasty. In the fridge, it stays good for up to four days.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, I recommend using a non-stick pan. Add a splash of water or broth. This helps keep the noodles moist. Stir gently to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel to lock in moisture.

Freezing Options

You can freeze Minute Chicken Lo Mein for later. Portion it into freezer-safe bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It lasts up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat and enjoy when you’re ready!

FAQs

How long does Minute Chicken Lo Mein last in the fridge?

Minute Chicken Lo Mein stays good for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. If you want it to taste great when you eat it again, cool the dish before you put it in the fridge. This helps lock in flavor and keeps the noodles from getting soggy.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, you can use other types of noodles. Egg noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti work well. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodles you choose. Check the package instructions to get them just right.

What can I add for extra protein?

You can add tofu, shrimp, or even beef for extra protein. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, chickpeas or edamame can be great choices too. Just cook them the same way you would the chicken, and mix them in with the veggies.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken. Use tofu or tempeh instead for protein. You can also add more veggies like snap peas or mushrooms to keep it hearty and flavorful. Don’t forget to adjust the soy sauce for taste!

What’s the best way to customize this recipe?

To customize this recipe, think about what you have on hand. You can swap in different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also change the sauce by adding more soy sauce or even a splash of oyster sauce for a different kick. Just get creative with your pantry!

You now have a simple guide to making Minute Chicken Lo Mein. We covered all the key steps: boiling noodles, sautéing chicken, stir-frying vegetables, and thickening the sauce. Remember to prep ingredients early for quick cooking. You can swap proteins or veggies to suit your taste. Store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty meal anytime. Enjoy the process and make it your ow

- 8 oz lo mein noodles - 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced - 1 carrot, julienned - 3 green onions, sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated - 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water - Salt and pepper to taste To make Minute Chicken Lo Mein, gather all these ingredients. The lo mein noodles are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavors well. Use fresh chicken breast for the best taste and texture. Thinly slice it to help it cook fast. The soy sauce and sesame oil add rich umami flavor. For veggies, I love using broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. They bring color and crunch! Green onions add a fresh finish. Don't forget the garlic and ginger! They give the dish a nice kick. Season your chicken with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is tasty. Finally, the cornstarch mixed with water will thicken your sauce. It helps coat everything and makes it all come together. Now that you know the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking! {{ingredient_image_2}} To cook the lo mein noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of lo mein noodles. Cook them for about 4-6 minutes or until they are al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite. After cooking, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking. This keeps them from getting too soft. Set the noodles aside for later. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. Season 1 lb of thinly sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pan and stir-fry it for about 5-7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add a splash more sesame oil if needed. Start by tossing in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. Stir-fry these for 30 seconds. Next, add 1 cup of sliced bell peppers. Cook them for about 2 minutes. Then, add 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1 julienned carrot. Continue stir-frying for 3 more minutes until all the veggies are tender but still crisp. Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of soy sauce over everything. Stir well to mix the chicken and vegetables. Now, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the pan. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly. To thicken the sauce, pour in the cornstarch mixture. This is made by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens. This should take about 1-2 minutes. You want the sauce to coat the chicken and veggies well. Remove the pan from heat. Fold in 3 sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning. Add more soy sauce if you want extra flavor. Enjoy your Minute Chicken Lo Mein! - Preparing Ingredients Ahead of Time: Get everything ready before you start cooking. Chop the vegetables, slice the chicken, and measure the sauces. This makes cooking fast and easy. When you have all your ingredients prepped, you can cook without delays. - Using Pre-Sliced Chicken and Vegetables: Save time by buying pre-sliced chicken and veggies. Many stores offer these options. This way, you skip the cutting and can focus on cooking. This small change makes your weeknight dinner quicker. - Recommendations for Additional Sauces: To add depth, try using oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. These sauces bring rich flavors and a hint of sweetness. You can mix them with soy sauce for a tasty twist. - Best Oils to Use: Sesame oil is key for flavor. It adds a nutty taste that works well with Asian dishes. You can also use peanut oil for a different flavor. Both oils help enhance your dish. - Ideal Serving Bowls: Choose shallow bowls for serving. They allow for easy mixing and eating. Plus, they show off the colorful lo mein. - Garnishes for Visual Appeal: Top your lo mein with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. They add color and crunch. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts also gives a nice texture. These simple touches make your dish look gourmet. Pro Tips Cook Noodles Al Dente: Make sure to cook your lo mein noodles just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during the stir-frying process. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and ginger will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. Avoid using pre-packaged ingredients when possible. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce or salt as needed to suit your preference. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like snap peas or baby corn according to your taste or what's in season. {{image_4}} If you want to mix things up, consider these options: - Alternative Proteins: You can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp. Tofu adds a nice texture and can soak up flavors well. Shrimp cooks quickly and gives a different taste. - Veggies You Can Use Instead: You can use any veggies you have on hand. Try snap peas, carrots, or bok choy. Each will add color and crunch. Looking to spice things up? Here are some fun ideas: - Spicy Options: Add chili oil or chili flakes for a kick. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can always add more if you like it hot! - Sweet and Sour Twist with Pineapple: For a sweet touch, toss in some pineapple chunks. This adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the dish. Need to cater to specific diets? Here’s how: - Gluten-Free Alternatives: Use gluten-free noodles instead of lo mein noodles. Rice noodles or zucchini noodles work well too. Just adjust the cooking time for each type. - Vegetarian and Vegan Options: To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken. Use tofu and add more veggies for protein. For vegan, ensure the soy sauce is vegan-friendly. Store your Minute Chicken Lo Mein in airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic work well. Let the dish cool down before sealing it. This keeps your meal fresh and tasty. In the fridge, it stays good for up to four days. When reheating, I recommend using a non-stick pan. Add a splash of water or broth. This helps keep the noodles moist. Stir gently to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel to lock in moisture. You can freeze Minute Chicken Lo Mein for later. Portion it into freezer-safe bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It lasts up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat and enjoy when you’re ready! Minute Chicken Lo Mein stays good for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. If you want it to taste great when you eat it again, cool the dish before you put it in the fridge. This helps lock in flavor and keeps the noodles from getting soggy. Yes, you can use other types of noodles. Egg noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti work well. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodles you choose. Check the package instructions to get them just right. You can add tofu, shrimp, or even beef for extra protein. If you're looking for a plant-based option, chickpeas or edamame can be great choices too. Just cook them the same way you would the chicken, and mix them in with the veggies. Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken. Use tofu or tempeh instead for protein. You can also add more veggies like snap peas or mushrooms to keep it hearty and flavorful. Don’t forget to adjust the soy sauce for taste! To customize this recipe, think about what you have on hand. You can swap in different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also change the sauce by adding more soy sauce or even a splash of oyster sauce for a different kick. Just get creative with your pantry! You now have a simple guide to making Minute Chicken Lo Mein. We covered all the key steps: boiling noodles, sautéing chicken, stir-frying vegetables, and thickening the sauce. Remember to prep ingredients early for quick cooking. You can swap proteins or veggies to suit your taste. Store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty meal anytime. Enjoy the process and make it your own!

Quick & Tasty Minute Chicken Lo Mein

A quick and delicious chicken lo mein recipe featuring colorful vegetables and savory flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz lo mein noodles
  • 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 unit carrot, julienned
  • 3 unit green onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  • Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast, seasoned with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pan, add more sesame oil if necessary. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger, followed by sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Add broccoli florets and julienned carrot, stir-frying for an additional 3 minutes until tender yet crisp.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the pan with vegetables. Drizzle soy sauce over everything, stirring to combine. Add cooked lo mein noodles, tossing gently to integrate.
  • Pour the cornstarch mixture into the pan, stirring frequently as the sauce thickens for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring it coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
  • Remove from heat and fold in sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding extra soy sauce if desired.

Notes

Serve in beautifully arranged bowls and enjoy with chopsticks for an authentic experience.
Keyword chicken, lo mein, quick meal, stir fry

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