Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein Better than Takeout
Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein Better Than Tak
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Fancy ditching that takeaway menu? Ever wondered if you could whip up something even better than your local Chinese? I did, and honestly? This Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein recipe is a game-changer.
The secret? It all starts with perfectly cooked lo mein noodles .
What's the Deal with This Lo Mein?
This isn't just any noodle dish. Lo mein originated in China as a simple, hearty meal. "Lo mein" literally translates to "stirred noodles.
" This easy lo mein recipe is ready in 30 minutes. It's quicker than ordering in, and way tastier, I promise.
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner.
Why You'll LOVE This Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Honestly, what's not to love? One of the top benefits is how quick and easy it is, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
Plus, it's packed with protein and veggies. This version is special because it is so versatile! You can easily use this as a base vegetarian lo mein recipe by subbing chicken for Tofu, or make shrimp lo mein recipe .
I tried making homemade lo mein once with a dear friend and it turned out to be the best takeout fakeaway we've ever had!.
Let's get to it! Time to check out what you'll need for this stir-fried noodle recipes .
Creating a Great Lo Mein Sauce Recipe
Getting that perfect lo mein sauce recipe is key. Honestly, it is what pulls the whole dish together! My version balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
You'll want to keep this lo mein sauce recipe ready!
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Speedy Weeknight Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Alright, let's talk ingredients! Honestly, making homemade lo mein is easier than you think. We’re going for that awesome takeout fakeaway vibe tonight.
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. This is what you need.
The Stars of the Show: Noodles & Chicken
- Lo Mein Noodles: You'll need 1 pound (450g) of fresh or dried lo mein noodles . Fresh is best if you can find it! If using dried, don't overcook. You want them al dente, like pasta.
- Chicken: 1 pound (450g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Make sure it's fresh and pink, not grey or slimy. That’s a big no-no.
Veggies Galore!
- Carrots: 1 cup sliced. Get the bright orange ones.
- Bell Pepper: 1 cup sliced (any color you fancy). I love red for the sweetness.
- Bok Choy: 1 cup sliced (or other leafy greens). Spinach is a good swap too!
- Green Onions: 1/2 cup sliced. They add a lovely freshness.
Lo Mein Sauce Recipe : The Secret Weapon
- Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup . Use good quality stuff. It makes a difference.
- Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons (vegetarian oyster sauce for vegetarian lo mein recipe ). Trust me on this one.
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon . Don't skip this. It adds a nutty aroma.
- Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon . For a touch of sweetness.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon . This thickens the sauce.
- Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup (or vegetable broth). Adds depth of flavour.
- White Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or black pepper). A little spice.
Seasoning Superstars
For this easy lo mein recipe remember ginger and garlic. Minced fresh ginger ( 1 inch ) and garlic ( 2 cloves ) make everything better.
Use fresh! It’s so much better than the jarred stuff, honestly.
Gear Up: Essential Equipment
- Large Pot: For boiling noodles. Obviously.
- Large Wok or Skillet: Essential for stir-fried noodle recipes . A wok is ideal but a large skillet works in a pinch.
- Small Bowl: For mixing the sauce.
- Colander: For draining the noodles.
That’s it! Gather your ingredients and equipment. Now, are you ready to get cooking and make this Chicken lo mein recipe on the weeknight dinner recipes ?
Cooking Method
Prep Steps: Mise en Place, Mate!
Right, before we even think about turning on the hob, let's get organised. Essential mise en place , yeah? Chop your chicken into bite-sized bits.
Slice your carrots, peppers, and bok choy. Mince your garlic and ginger. Basically, get everything ready to go.
Time-saving tip: Honestly, I sometimes chop the veggies the night before. It saves loads of time when you're rushing about after work.
Safety first, too! Use a sharp knife and watch your fingers, yeah? No one wants a chipped nail in their lo mein noodles .
Step-by-Step: Let's Get Stir-Frying!
- Cook the Noodles: Get your lo mein noodles boiled. Follow the packet instructions, but don't overcook them. Al dente is key! Drain 'em and toss with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to stop them sticking together.
- Whip Up the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together your soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, chicken broth, and white pepper . Give it a good whisk until it's smooth.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or big frying pan over medium-high heat. Chuck in the chicken and cook until it's browned and cooked through. Take it out and put it to one side.
- Sauté Veggies: Add your ginger and garlic to the wok and cook for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Add your carrots and peppers and cook for 2- 3 minutes until they soften a bit. Then add the bok choy and cook until it wilts.
- Bring it All Together: Put the chicken back in the wok. Pour in your sauce and cook, stirring all the time, until it thickens up and coats everything nicely.
- Noodle Time: Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the wok and toss it all together so the noodles are covered in the sauce.
- Serve it Up: Chuck on some sliced green onions as garnish and serve it up straight away. Sorted!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Lo Mein
Want to make your homemade lo mein restaurant quality? I've got you covered.
Don’t overcrowd the wok. If you've got a small wok, cook the chicken and vegetables in batches. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Avoid adding too much liquid at once. Pour the sauce in gradually. This stops the temperature from dropping too much.
Want to get ahead? Make the lo mein sauce recipe the day before. It keeps perfectly in the fridge. This easy lo mein recipe is a real winner.
Fancy a vegetarian lo mein recipe ? Just swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable oyster sauce.
It's a great weeknight dinner recipe that's better than any takeout fakeaway . So ditch the delivery apps and give this a go.
Plus this recipe is totally adaptable with lo mein variations , so get creative! Or try a shrimp lo mein recipe instead.
Recipe Notes for Your Best Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Alright, so you're about to dive into this Easy Lo Mein Recipe . Before you do, let's chew the fat about a few things that'll take your Homemade Lo Mein from good to amazing .
Honestly, these little pointers can be game-changers.
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Okay, so presentation is key, right? I always like to pile my lo mein noodles high in a bowl. Then, I sprinkle some extra green onions on top.
For a fancy touch, add a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Sides? Spring rolls are a winner.
A light, crisp salad works a treat too. For drinks, a cold glass of jasmine tea is super refreshing. Or maybe a crisp beer if you're feeling cheeky!
Storage Tips: No Food Waste Here!
If you've got leftovers (unlikely, but hey!), pop them in an airtight container. They'll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days .
To reheat, a quick zap in the microwave works. Or better yet, stir-fry it in a pan to get those noodles nice and toasty again.
I wouldn’t recommend freezing lo mein noodles . They can get a bit mushy when thawed. Honestly, they're best enjoyed fresh!
Lo Mein Variations : Mix It Up!
Fancy a change? For a Vegetarian Lo Mein Recipe , just swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth and vegetarian oyster sauce too.
Easy peasy! If you’re feeling adventurous, try Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe instead! Oh my gosh, it's delicious! For all my gluten-free pals, you can easily find gluten-free lo mein noodles these days.
Nutrition Basics: Food That's Good for You (and Tastes Amazing!)
This Weeknight Dinner Recipes is actually pretty balanced. You're getting protein from the chicken. Plus, loads of vitamins from the veggies.
The sauce does have some sugar and sodium, so go easy on the portions if you're watching your intake. As mentioned before, each serving packs around 450 calories.
It's a proper meal that'll keep you going!
So there you have it! I've covered all my bases. Now get in the kitchen and whip up some banging lo mein noodles .
You won't regret it! And hey, if you create your own Lo Mein Variations , let me know!. This might be your next go-to Takeout Fakeaway , and honestly, I think you will skip the next delivery guy.
Happy cooking, you legends!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly are lo mein noodles, anyway? Are they the same as spaghetti?
Lo mein noodles are Chinese egg noodles, typically made with wheat flour and eggs, giving them a lovely golden color and slightly chewy texture. They're definitely not the same as spaghetti! Spaghetti is made from durum wheat and lacks the egg component, resulting in a different texture. Think of lo mein as the noodles that make all those awesome Chinese takeout dishes sing.
Can I use any type of noodle for lo mein? What if I can't find specifically labelled "lo mein noodles"?
While authentic lo mein noodles are best, you can substitute with other types of Asian-style egg noodles if you can't find them. Look for fresh or dried noodles that are similar in thickness. You can even use spaghetti in a pinch, although the texture won't be quite the same – consider it a 'hack' for when you're craving lo mein but the cupboard is bare!
How do I stop my lo mein noodles from sticking together after boiling?
Nobody likes a clump of noodles! The key is to not overcook them; aim for al dente. After draining the noodles, toss them immediately with a tablespoon of vegetable oil or sesame oil. This coats the noodles and prevents them from sticking together like glue. Think of it like giving them a little spa treatment after their hot bath!
Can I make lo mein noodles vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a vegetarian oyster sauce substitute (often made from mushrooms). To make it fully vegan, double-check that your noodles are egg-free; some brands offer vegan options.
How long does leftover lo mein last, and what's the best way to reheat it?
Leftover lo mein noodles will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. To reheat, you can microwave it (add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out) or, even better, stir-fry it in a pan with a little extra oil to revive the flavours and prevent it being like something you'd find in your nan's fridge!
Is lo mein healthy? What's the nutritional breakdown?
Lo mein can be part of a balanced diet, but it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and ingredients. This recipe is estimated around 450 calories per serving, with a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. However, the sodium content can be high due to the soy sauce and oyster sauce. You can adjust the sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce or simply using less. Ultimately, it's all about enjoying it in moderation!
