If there’s one dish that never fails to impress at a weeknight dinner or special gathering, it’s Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. This spectacular noodle stir-fry brings together juicy, tender chicken slices with a symphony of crisp vegetables, all tangled up in slurp-worthy noodles and a glossy, garlicky sauce that’s pure comfort in every bite. Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is one of those meals that feels like a treat yet comes together quickly and easily, making it a perfect choice for busy days when you crave something really satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is in how a handful of humble, colorful ingredients can combine into a dish that’s so full of flavor and heartiness. Every component has its own role, whether adding a pop of color, a hint of crunch, or a savory note to tie everything together.
- Lo Mein noodles: These make the perfect chewy base, but spaghetti or any long noodle works well if that’s what you have on hand.
- Sesame oil: Adds an irresistible toasty aroma and helps the noodles stay plush and non-sticky.
- Chicken breasts: Sliced thin for speedy, even cooking and tender bites throughout your dish.
- Salt and pepper: Just a touch to season the chicken and help all those flavors pop.
- Vegetable oil: Essential for creating that signature stir-fry sizzle in your pan or wok.
- Red bell pepper: Lends crispness, sweetness, and a burst of vibrant color.
- Shredded carrots: A fresh, slightly sweet crunch that brightens every forkful.
- Snow peas or snap peas: Add a fresh, green crunch that’s both satisfying and pretty.
- Garlic: The star of the show! Fresh minced garlic infuses the entire dish with that beloved savory kick.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Layers in savory depth and color without overwhelming saltiness.
- Oyster sauce: Adds richness and subtle sweetness, balancing all the bold flavors.
- Hoisin sauce: A dash of this sauce brings a lovely hint of complexity and a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh ginger: A little goes a long way, adding brightness and zing to your sauce.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (optional): For those who like a thicker, silkier sauce to cling to every noodle.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds: A beautiful finishing touch for both flavor and eye appeal.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, then cook your lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) just until they’re al dente, following the package directions. Drain them well and toss with a tablespoon of aromatic sesame oil — this keeps the noodles wonderfully silky and prevents them from sticking while you prep the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry and slice them thinly; this way, each piece cooks rapidly and stays juicy. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high and swirl in a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chicken in a single layer, giving it a fast and flavorful stir-fry for about five to six minutes, until just golden and fully cooked. Then, scoop the chicken out and set aside to keep those morsels nice and tender.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, add your remaining oil and toss in the red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and snow peas. Stir-fry briskly for three to four minutes until the veggies are crisp-tender and vividly colorful. Sprinkle in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute, unlocking its deep, mouthwatering aroma without letting it burn.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Noodles, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the plush, sesame-coated noodles. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and freshly grated ginger. Pour this liquid gold over everything in the pan, and toss vigorously so every strand is coated in savory, garlicky goodness. If you like your sauce on the thicker side, add the cornstarch slurry at this point and cook for another minute or two until everything is glossy and irresistible.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Remove the pan from the heat and shower your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with sliced green onions and a scattering of sesame seeds. These simple garnishes add that final layer of freshness and a subtle nutty crunch to every bite. Serve hot and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Garnishes
For a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch, I love scattering more fresh green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds right over the top of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. If you’re feeling bold, throw on some chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a dash of heat. Even a squeeze of fresh lime can work wonders to brighten everything up.
Side Dishes
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a complete meal all on its own, but if you want to round things out, a crisp Asian cucumber salad, quick pickled vegetables, or some delicate steamed dumplings make harmonious companions. These light, refreshing sides are ideal for balancing the richness of the noodles and chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in individual noodle bowls for a restaurant-style feel, or pile it high on a big, family-style platter at the center of the table. For a fun twist, stuff leftovers into lettuce cups or wrap them up with a bit of rice paper and extra vegetables for portable, fresh spring rolls!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein stores like a dream. Simply transfer the cooled noodles and chicken to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days. The flavors even have a chance to mingle and deepen as they rest.
Freezing
While Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen in a pinch. Let the dish cool completely, portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to a skillet or microwave-safe bowl to loosen things up, then warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot. This prevents the noodles from overcooking and keeps the chicken nice and moist.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is incredibly versatile. Swap in shrimp, tofu, beef, or even leftover roast pork for delicious results. Just adjust the cooking time so your protein doesn’t overcook.
Is this dish very spicy?
Not in its classic form. The main spice comes from garlic and ginger rather than chilies, so it’s family-friendly. If you’d like to turn up the heat, add chili flakes, sriracha, or a chopped fresh chili when stir-frying.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free noodles and be sure to select gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari), hoisin, and oyster sauces. Double-check any bottled sauces for hidden gluten.
What vegetables can I substitute?
Feel free to mix and match! Broccoli florets, baby bok choy, mushrooms, or baby corn are lovely choices. Use whatever crisp veggies you have — the key is a quick stir-fry to keep their snap and color.
How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?
Tossing the freshly drained noodles in sesame oil is your secret weapon! This keeps them separated and adds flavor so your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is perfectly cooked and easy to toss with the sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving takeout-style noodles with all the fresh flair of home cooking, Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is the answer. It’s quick, customizable, and absolutely irresistible. Give it a try — your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!
Print
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein recipe is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that combines tender noodles with savory chicken and crisp vegetables in a delicious sauce.
Ingredients
Lo Mein:
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Chicken Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snow peas or snap peas
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
Garnish:
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Toss with sesame oil and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Stir-fry in a skillet until fully cooked, then set aside.
- Stir-fry vegetables: In the same pan, stir-fry bell pepper, carrots, and snow peas. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Combine ingredients: Return chicken to the pan, add cooked noodles, and toss together.
- Make the sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and ginger. Pour over noodles and mix well.
- Optional thickening: If desired, add cornstarch slurry and cook briefly for a thicker sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.
- Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
