I had always been a big fan of takeout Chicken Lo Mein, but as much as I loved the convenience, I often found myself wondering what exactly was in that sauce or why the noodles sometimes tasted a little too oily.
So one day, I decided to try making it myself. I won’t lie—my first attempt wasn’t perfect. I used the wrong type of noodles, went a little too heavy on the soy sauce, and completely forgot the sesame oil (which, trust me, makes a huge difference!). But with a little trial and error, I finally cracked the code.
Now, this Chicken Lo Mein recipe is one of my absolute go-to meals when I want something quick, satisfying, and full of fresh ingredients I can trust! Some days, I load it up with extra veggies to sneak in more nutrients for my family. Other times, I add a little chili sauce to give it a spicy kick.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Lo Mein
- Quick and Easy – This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Better Than Takeout – Fresh ingredients and homemade sauce mean better flavor and less grease.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice, swap out veggies, or add extra protein to fit your preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep – It stores well, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- One-Pan Dish – Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
For this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Lo Mein
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast – Sliced into thin strips for tender, juicy bites.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps achieve a beautiful sear on the chicken.
- 2 1/3 teaspoons toasted white sesame seeds – Adds a nutty crunch and finishing touch.
- 16 oz fresh lo mein egg noodles – Soft and chewy noodles perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- 1 stalk scallion – Sliced thinly for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 2 ½ cups stir-fry vegetables – Use a mix like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for vibrant color and texture.
Lo Mein Sauce
- ½ cup chicken stock – Creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds depth with a hint of nuttiness.
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar – Balances the salty and umami flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ginger – Provides a warm, aromatic spice.
- 2 tablespoons oyster soy sauce – Brings a deep umami richness.
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce – Adds color and a slightly sweet undertone.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce for a silky consistency.
- 2-3 cloves garlic – Minced for a bold, garlicky punch.
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce – For those who love a little heat.
- 1 teaspoon chili pepper flakes – Adds a fiery kick to your lo mein.
- Extra veggies – Try mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy for added variety.
- Additional protein – Shrimp, beef, or tofu make great substitutes or additions.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – Essential for stir-frying everything quickly and evenly.
- Cutting board & knife – To slice chicken and vegetables efficiently.
- Mixing bowl – For combining the sauce ingredients.
- Tongs or spatula – Helps toss and evenly coat the noodles with sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Lo Mein
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together chicken stock, sesame oil, brown sugar, ginger, oyster sauce, soy sauces, cornstarch, and minced garlic. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the stir-fry vegetables. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they are just tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan, followed by the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles and vegetables are well coated. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Final Touches
Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top. If making the dish spicy, add chili garlic sauce or chili flakes.
Best Paired With
- Spring rolls – A crispy appetizer that complements the dish.
- Egg drop soup – Light yet flavorful to balance the hearty noodles.
- Steamed dumplings – A great side for an authentic meal.
Storage and Serving
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to prevent dryness.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh noodles for the best texture.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables—they should retain some crunch.
- Mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the wok.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Substitutes and Variations
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
- Swap oyster sauce for hoisin sauce for a slightly different flavor.
- Try whole wheat spaghetti if lo mein noodles are unavailable.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
| Calories | 558 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 67g |
| Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 654mg |
What Others Are Saying About the Recipe
Amanda: “I made this for my family last night, and everyone LOVED it! The sauce was so flavorful, and it was better than our usual takeout. Definitely making this again!”
Jana: “I never knew homemade lo mein could be this easy. I added mushrooms and bell peppers, and it turned out fantastic. The sauce was the perfect balance of savory and sweet!”
Robe: “As someone who loves spicy food, I added extra chili flakes, and it was perfect! The flavors were spot on!.”
FAQs
Can I use dried noodles instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but be sure to cook them according to the package instructions and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
How do I keep my lo mein from getting soggy?
Avoid overcooking the noodles and vegetables, and be sure not to add too much sauce.
Final Thoughts
I know how tempting it is to just grab takeout after a long day, but trust me—this homemade lo mein is faster than waiting for delivery, and you control exactly what goes into it. Plus, you can tweak the spice level to your heart’s content. Give it a try, and let me know your favorite add-ins! Happy cooking!