Better than takeout! This garlic chicken lo mein brings back memories of cozy nights in with a big bowl of homemade noodles.

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm bowl of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. This dish is not only delicious but also brings back cozy memories of nights spent at home, enjoying a hearty meal. Many people shy away from cooking this type of food, thinking it’s only something you can get from a restaurant. However, we’re here to show you that making Garlic Chicken Lo Mein at home is not only easy but also more satisfying (and healthier) than takeout.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know to make this tasty dish. From the ingredients list to storing leftovers, we will cover all aspects to ensure you create the perfect Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why you’re going to love this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein recipe!

1. Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, chicken, and savory sauce makes every bite burst with flavor. The indepth taste will have you coming back for more.
2. Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want a homemade meal.
3. Customizable: This recipe allows you to adjust ingredients based on your preferences. You can add vegetables or switch out proteins.
4. Nostalgic Warmth: Preparing this dish might remind you of those cozy nights spent at home with a movie and a big bowl of noodles. It’s not just food; it’s an experience.

How to Prepare Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Creating Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is straightforward and enjoyable. In this section, we’ll break down everything you need to know for a successful cooking experience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein:

• 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 carrot, sliced into thin matchsticks
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil (canola or vegetable oil)

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, here’s how to make your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein:

1. Prepare the Noodles: Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir well to ensure everything is well coated.
5. Add the Noodles: Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together to mix well and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and toss in the sliced green onions.
7. Serve: Your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is ready! Serve immediately, and enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Serving Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is simple and fun. Here are some suggestions:

• Solo Dish: Enjoy it on its own, right out of the bowl. It’s full of flavor and will leave you satisfied.
• Family Style: Serve it in a large bowl in the center of the table for family-style dining, allowing everyone to take their portion.
• Pairing with Sides: You can also serve your lo mein with some spring rolls or wontons on the side. These add extra crunch and flavor.
• Beverage: Pair your meal with a cold drink, such as iced tea or lemonade, for a refreshing touch.

How to Store Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Leftovers? No problem! Storing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is quite easy:

• In the Refrigerator: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They will keep well for about 3-4 days.
• To Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can quickly reheat them in the microwave. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the noodles from drying out. Mix well and heat until warm.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container or freezer bag. It is best used within 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat thoroughly.

Tips for Preparing Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein turns out spectacular:

1. Cook Noodles Al Dente: Make sure to cook your noodles until they are al dente. They will continue to cook slightly when you stir-fry them with the other ingredients.
2. Prep Ahead: Cut and prepare your vegetables and chicken beforehand. This helps speed up the cooking process.
3. High Heat for Stir-Frying: Stir-frying is best done over high heat. This helps to cook the ingredients quickly, retaining their texture and flavor.
4. Look for Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also add a nice crunch to your dish.
5. Experiment: Don’t hesitate to make the dish your own. You can add different proteins like shrimp or tofu, and incorporate additional vegetables such as snap peas or zucchini.

Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. You can also add more veggies for a colorful dish.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, you can add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Noodle Alternatives: If you can’t find lo mein noodles, spaghetti or even rice noodles work well in this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can use any vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, bok choy, or green beans. Just ensure they are sliced thin enough to cook quickly.

2. Is lo mein gluten-free?

Lo mein noodles are made from wheat flour, so they are not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free noodles made from rice or other gluten alternatives. Just follow the cooking instructions for those specific noodles.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a wonderful dish that brings the tastes of takeout home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings back fond memories of cozy nights in. Whether it’s for a weekday dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe is sure to impress.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! You’ll discover not just how to make a delightful dish, but also the joy that comes with preparing something special for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy!