After a long day at work, there’s nothing more satisfying than walking into my kitchen and whipping up a quick and delicious meal. Enter my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein—a colorful, flavorful dish that never fails to lift my spirits and thrill my taste buds. Picture this: the vibrant hues of bell peppers and carrots sizzling alongside tender chicken, all enveloped in the unmistakable aroma of freshly minced garlic.
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What’s even better? This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when the last thing you want to do is resort to takeout again. With a mix of healthy ingredients and that comforting noodle goodness, this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is both a crowd-pleaser and a nourishing option. So, let’s dive in and bring the taste of homemade Chinese takeout to your table—because who says delicious meals need to be complicated?
Why You'll Love This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
- This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
- You’ll savor the mouthwatering combination of tender chicken and vibrant veggies seasoned with aromatic garlic, making every bite irresistible.
- The versatility of this dish means you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or even swap out the protein to suit your preferences.
- Its visual appeal, with colorful ingredients beautifully combined, will impress your family and guests alike, proving that home-cooked meals can be as stunning as they are flavorful.
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – perfect for juicy, tender bites full of flavor.
For the Noodles
• Lo mein noodles – these soft, chewy noodles are the heart of this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, absorbing all the flavors!
For the Vegetables
• Fresh garlic – the star ingredient that adds an aromatic kick.
• Bell peppers – vibrant colors brighten the dish and add sweetness; feel free to mix and match colors!
• Carrots – thinly sliced for crunch and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory elements.
For the Sauce
• Low-sodium soy sauce – enhances the dish’s umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• Sesame oil – brings a nutty richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
• Cornstarch mixed with water – this thickens the sauce, making it cling perfectly to your garlic chicken and noodles.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Prepare your ingredients: Start by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slicing your bell peppers and carrots. Having everything ready will make cooking smooth and enjoyable.
Cook the noodles: Boil a pot of salted water and toss in the lo mein noodles. Cook them until al dente, about 3-5 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown. This will ensure the chicken is flavorful and juicy.
Add garlic and veggies: Stir in the minced garlic, bell peppers, and carrots into the skillet. Cook for another minute or so, until everything is fragrant and the veggies start to soften.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixture. Pour this lovely sauce over the chicken and veggies in the skillet, making sure everything is well-coated.
Combine everything: Finally, toss in your cooked lo mein noodles. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in the sauce and heated through, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Room Temperature: Enjoy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein fresh and hot! It’s best consumed immediately; if left out, it can be stored for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to squeeze out excess air. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best flavor and texture, reheat the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein on a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if it seems dry, stirring until heated through.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can chop the chicken and slice all the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, cook the lo mein noodles up to 3 days prior, toss them lightly with a splash of sesame oil to prevent sticking, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply sauté the chicken and veggies as directed, add the sauce, and toss in the pre-cooked noodles. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a comforting meal that tastes just as satisfying as if it were made fresh!
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations
Feel free to customize this delicious dish to your liking—your kitchen could use a little flavor twist!
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinating them beforehand for added flavor. You won’t miss the meat with these veggie options!
- Spicy: Add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili oil to kick up the heat level. This spice addition transforms your dish into a fiery delight!
- Gluten-Free: Swap out lo mein noodles for gluten-free rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter twist. You’ll still enjoy a satisfying meal without the gluten.
- Additional Veggies: Toss in snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra crunch and nutrients. The more colorful, the better!
- Honey Garlic: Mix a tablespoon of honey into the sauce for a sweet twist that balances the savory flavors perfectly. This brings a delightful depth that’s hard to resist!
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lime or lemon zest into the dish just before serving for an invigorating citrus brightness. It adds a refreshing aromatic element that lifts the flavors.
- Herbed Version: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil sprinkled on top for a fresh finish. The herbaceous notes elevate the experience to a new level!
- Cold Noodle Salad: Chill the leftovers, toss with sesame dressing, and serve as a refreshing cold noodle salad. It’s a perfect picnic dish or light lunch option!
What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Creating the perfect meal is an art, and to accompany your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, consider delightful sides and drinks that enhance its flavors.
Steamed Broccoli: A crisp and vibrant addition, broccoli offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft noodles.
Egg Rolls: These crispy, savory treats are perfect for dipping and add a delicious crunch, complementing the flavors in your lo mein perfectly.
Cucumber Salad: This cool and tangy salad provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the slight heat of the garlic and the richness of the chicken.
Pineapple Fried Rice: Sweet and savory, the tropical flavors of pineapple mingling with rice create a delightful harmony with the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.
Miso Soup: Light and comforting, this warm soup adds an umami depth that pairs beautifully with the dish’s flavors.
Chilled Green Tea: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, offering a soothing balance to the vibrant spices in your meal.
These pairings not only enhance the flavors of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein but also create a wonderful dining experience for every occasion. Enjoy!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when sautéing the chicken, as this can cause steaming instead of browning.
- For optimal flavor, add the garlic to the pan just after the chicken is golden to prevent burning.
- Lastly, make sure your lo mein noodles are cooked al dente before adding them to the skillet, as they will continue to cook slightly once combined with the hot ingredients.
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken works best for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they’re tender and absorb flavors beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer taste, but make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for juiciness.
How should I store leftovers of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
To store your leftovers safely, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through to maintain the flavors.
Can Garlic Chicken Lo Mein be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein! After cooking, let it cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you squeeze out excess air to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove for the best texture.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thick, add a splash of water or low-sodium soy sauce and stir over low heat until it loosens up. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tsp of cornstarch with 1-2 tsp of water and add it to the sauce while cooking, letting it thicken up.
Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten intolerance, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with tofu and use a plant-based sauce to keep the flavors intact while accommodating dietary needs.
How can I avoid mushy lo mein noodles?
To prevent mushy noodles, cook your lo mein noodles until al dente, which usually takes 3-5 minutes. The key is not to overcook them in boiling water, as they will soften further when mixed with the hot ingredients later in the dish.
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice your bell peppers and carrots.
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the lo mein noodles until al dente, about 3-5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic, bell peppers, and carrots into the skillet and cook for another minute.
- Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixture; pour over chicken and veggies, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Toss in the cooked lo mein noodles and stir gently until everything is evenly coated and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
