When the craving for a hearty, homemade meal strikes, I often find myself reaching for this Healthy Chicken Lo Mein recipe. Just imagine the vibrant colors of fresh bell peppers and snap peas sizzling in the pan, blending beautifully with tender chicken and perfectly cooked whole wheat noodles. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also leaves you feeling energetic and nourished.
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One evening, I came home after a long day and wanted something wholesome yet quick to whip up. This recipe became my go-to. With a mere 30 minutes of prep and cook time, it’s a delightful solution to combat the monotony of fast food. It’s packed with protein and bursting with flavor from the combo of garlic and soy sauce, proving that comfort food can also be nutritious.
Join me as I share this delightful dish that’s not only versatile enough to impress guests but also easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into the goodness of Healthy Chicken Lo Mein!
Why You'll Love This Healthy Chicken Lo Mein
- This Healthy Chicken Lo Mein is incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight meal when you’re short on time.
- You’ll absolutely love the flavor explosion from the fresh veggies and savory sauce that elevate this dish to a whole new level.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite proteins or seasonal vegetables, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Not to mention, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it visually appealing, turning your dinner table into a feast for the senses.
- This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, satisfying both kids and adults alike with its delicious taste and wholesome ingredients.
Healthy Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients
• Here’s what you need for a delightful and colorful meal!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – essential for a lean protein source that keeps the dish light and healthy.
For the Noodles
• Whole wheat lo mein noodles – a nutritious twist that adds fiber and a wonderful texture to your dish.
For the Vegetables
• Bell peppers – they provide vibrant color and a sweet crunch, making your meal visually appealing.
• Carrots – these add a natural sweetness and are a great source of vitamins.
• Snap peas – their fresh flavor and crispness offer a delightful contrast to the noodles.
• Garlic – this aromatic ingredient infuses the dish with a savory depth that’s hard to resist.
For the Sauce
• Low-sodium soy sauce – delivers all the umami flavor without overwhelming sodium, keeping it healthy.
• Sesame oil – just a splash adds a nutty aroma and richness to the overall flavor profile.
• Honey or agave syrup – a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory notes of the dish.
This Healthy Chicken Lo Mein is perfect for shaking off fast food fatigue while savoring a homemade meal that’s both filling and bursting with flavor!
How to Make Healthy Chicken Lo Mein
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and chop your bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas into bite-sized pieces. This prep sets the stage for a beautiful, colorful dish.
Cook the whole wheat lo mein noodles per package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them firm.
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown for about 5-7 minutes, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Toss in the chopped vegetables and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp, showcasing their vibrant colors.
Whisk together soy sauce and honey or agave syrup in a small bowl. Pour this delightful mixture over the chicken and veggies, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Add the drained lo mein noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately for the best taste!
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Healthy Chicken Lo Mein
Fridge: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures your Healthy Chicken Lo Mein stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you’d like to store for longer, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Simply allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to help revitalize the noodles.
Tip: Avoid freezing if you have added delicate ingredients like snap peas, as they may lose their texture.
Healthy Chicken Lo Mein Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to your taste or dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute whole wheat noodles with gluten-free rice noodles or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
- Veggie-Packed: Add more vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra nutrition and a colorful presentation.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce for a delightful heat that will wake up your taste buds!
- Protein Swap: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option that caters to your preference.
- Saucy Twist: Experiment with teriyaki or hoisin sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweet and unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted cashews or peanuts at the end for a satisfying crunch and additional protein.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving for a burst of freshness that lightens up the meal.
- Creamy Sauce: For a creamy texture, mix in a spoonful of peanut butter or tahini into your sauce for a richer flavor that balances beautifully.
What to Serve with Healthy Chicken Lo Mein?
Imagine transforming a delightful dinner into an unforgettable meal by pairing your Healthy Chicken Lo Mein with these fantastic side dishes!
Spring Rolls: These crispy treats add a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the tender noodles and veggies.
Sesame Broccoli: Lightly steamed with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it offers a vibrant, nutritious addition to your plate.
Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad, with its delightful crunch and tangy dressing, brightens the meal and balances flavors perfectly.
Pairing it with a drink is also a great idea. A Chilled Green Tea complements the Asian flavors and keeps the meal light.
Don’t forget dessert! A Mango Sorbet can cleanse your palate beautifully after a savory dish, providing a sweet, fruity finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Healthy Chicken Lo Mein are an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the chicken and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The whole wheat noodles can be cooked and stored in the fridge as well, but be sure to drizzle a bit of oil on them to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the chicken and veggies together with garlic, add the cooked noodles, and finish with the sauce for a fantastic meal that feels just as delicious as when made fresh. Following these prep steps not only saves time but also brings homemade goodness to your table, perfect for busy weeknights!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always slice the chicken breasts into thin strips; this helps them cook quickly and evenly in the Healthy Chicken Lo Mein.To prevent the whole wheat lo mein noodles from becoming sticky, be sure to rinse them under cold water after draining.While stir-frying, keep the heat at medium to ensure the vegetables remain crisp and vibrant without overcooking.When adding the noodles, make sure they are heated through in about 2 minutes to retain their texture and enhance the overall dish.
Healthy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Healthy Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish! They keep the meal light and healthy while providing a solid protein source. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a bit more flavor; just remember to trim any excess fat to maintain a healthy profile.
How should I store Healthy Chicken Lo Mein leftovers?
For any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help retain the freshness and flavor of your Healthy Chicken Lo Mein. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet!
Can I freeze Healthy Chicken Lo Mein?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat. For added moisture, consider adding a splash of water or broth while reheating.
What if my vegetables get too soft during cooking?
Very good question! If you find your vegetables starting to soften too much, reduce the cooking time when stir-frying. Aim for that tender-crisp texture by stirring frequently and cooking just until vibrant in color—around 3-4 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy the perfect crunch alongside your noodles!
Is this dish suitable for individuals with allergies?
Definitely, but keep an eye on the sauce! The low-sodium soy sauce contains wheat, so if someone has a gluten allergy, I recommend using a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Also, if you have concerns about certain vegetables or ingredients, feel free to swap them out with your favorites or what’s in season while still keeping the core flavor intact.
Can I customize the veggies used in Healthy Chicken Lo Mein?
The more, the merrier! I often make this dish with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or even mushrooms based on what I have on hand. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes so they cook evenly—your creativity will only elevate the taste!
Healthy Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and chop the bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the whole wheat lo mein noodles per package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken strips, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown for about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the chopped vegetables and minced garlic, stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes.
- Whisk together soy sauce and honey or agave syrup, then pour over the chicken and veggies.
- Add the drained lo mein noodles to the skillet, toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve immediately for the best taste.
