There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming a handful of simple ingredients into a delicious, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enter Garlic Chicken Lo Mein—a dish that captures the essence of your favorite Chinese takeout but can be made in just 30 minutes. I first crafted this recipe one evening when I was craving a flavorful dinner yet wanted to avoid the hassle of dining out. The result was a delightful combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy lo mein noodles, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky sauce that dances invitingly in the air.
This meal isn’t just about speed—it’s versatile too! Whether you’re a fan of shrimp, tofu, or even beef, you’ll find it easy to customize the protein to suit your cravings. The fact that it comes together quickly makes it an ideal solution for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying without the fuss. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the magic of homemade Garlic Chicken Lo Mein!
Why is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein a Must-Try?
Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Flavor Explosion: The garlic, soy sauce, and fresh veggies create a mouthwatering taste sensation that rivals takeout.
Customizable Delight: Easily swap proteins like shrimp, tofu, or beef to suit your preferences.
Healthier Option: Enjoy a homemade meal that can be tailored to your dietary needs, including a gluten-free version.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, everyone will love this hearty dish.
Make sure to check out our tips for gluten-free options to perfect your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein!
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up this delightful dish!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs – Provides great protein; substitute with shrimp, tofu, or beef for variety.
- Cornstarch – Helps to marinate and tenderize the chicken for a juicy bite.
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor; opt for gluten-free soy sauce to keep it gluten-free!
- Sesame Oil – Enhances the flavor; you can use other neutral oils if needed.
For the Noodles
- Lo Mein Noodles or Spaghetti – The base of the dish; use gluten-free noodles if desired.
- Vegetable Oil – Essential for cooking; can be swapped with canola or peanut oil.
For the Vegetables
- Garlic – Provides the main flavor; freshly minced is best for optimal pungency.
- Bell Peppers, Shredded Carrots, Snap Peas – Add color and crunch; swap with veggies like broccoli or zucchini if you like.
- Green Onions – A garnish that adds flavor; can be substituted with chives.
- Fresh Ginger (optional) – Brings warmth and zing; ground ginger works as an alternative.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Hoisin Sauce, Brown Sugar, Chicken Broth/Water, Toasted Sesame Oil – These ingredients create a balanced sweet and savory sauce; adjust to taste to perfect your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be all set to create a homemade masterpiece in no time!
How to Make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine your boneless chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for 5-10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare lo mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and toss them with a drizzle of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth (or water), and toasted sesame oil. Set this delicious sauce aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through—around 4-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, add minced garlic (and ginger if using). Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—to ensure the garlic is aromatic but not burnt.
- Add the Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender and vibrantly colored.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and simmer for 1-2 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce slightly while mingling all the flavors.
- Toss in Noodles: Gently add the cooked noodles and sliced green onions to the pan. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and heated through. Serve hot!
Optional: Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Chicken Lo Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance by combining the soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse. Additionally, you can chop your vegetables and refrigerate them for up to 3 days in an airtight container, keeping them fresh and ready to toss into the stir-fry. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken and vegetables, add the sauce, and finish with the noodles for a deliciously quick dinner. This approach not only saves time but also ensures your dish is just as satisfying as if you made it from scratch.
Storage Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep your delicious Garlic Chicken Lo Mein fresh and ready to enjoy later!
- Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container to maintain quality.
- Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture and flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Revitalize any leftover lo mein by garnishing with fresh green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil before serving. This adds a refreshing touch!
What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Elevate your homemade dinner experience with delightful pairings that complement this comforting dish.
- Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites add a chewy texture, making them a classic side that beautifully balances the dish’s flavors. Enjoy them with a soy dipping sauce for an extra burst of taste.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: This fresh and zesty salad brings crunch and lightness to your meal, counteracting the richness of the lo mein. It’s a refreshing way to enliven your plate.
- Chilled Jasmine Tea: A fragrant beverage—perfectly cooling and subtle—offers a lovely counterpoint to the savory garlic chicken without overpowering your palate.
- Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed in sesame oil and sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds, these garlicky green beans inspire harmony on your table, pairing excellently with the lo mein.
- Crab Rangoons: Creamy, crispy, and slightly sweet, these bite-sized appetizers can add a fun twist to your meal, creating a festive atmosphere for family dinner nights.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat wraps up your meal on a high note, blending perfectly with the flavors of your lo mein while offering a delightful texture contrast.
Each of these sides enhances the comforting warmth of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, crafting a meal that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun and flavorful adjustments!
- Shrimp Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a sweet and succulent twist that cooks in minutes.
- Tofu Option: Use firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian version. Marinate it just like the chicken for enhanced flavor.
- Beefy Delight: Swap in thinly sliced beef for a heartier meal. Cook until just browned for the best taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for a fiery lift, perfect for heat lovers!
- Veggie Boost: Mix in extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance color and nutrition, making each bite even more delightful.
- Rice Noodles: For a gluten-free twist, use rice noodles instead of lo mein, with a similar luscious outcome.
- Crispy Additions: Top your dish with crispy fried shallots or sesame seeds for an appealing crunch and extra flavor.
- Sweetness Factor: Experiment with a dash of honey or maple syrup in the sauce for a unique sweet undertone that compliments the garlic beautifully.
Expert Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
- Marinate Well: Always marinate the chicken for at least 5-10 minutes to boost flavor and tenderness in your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.
- Perfect Garlic Cooking: Sauté garlic just until fragrant to avoid burning; overcooked garlic can turn bitter and ruin your dish.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to play with veggies! Adjust cooking times as needed based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they retain their crunch.
- Noodle Drainage: Make sure to drain your noodles thoroughly before adding them to the mix. Excess water can dilute the flavorful sauce.
- Sauce Balance: Taste and adjust your sauce as you go; everyone’s palate is different, and finding your perfect balance is key for this dish!
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs since they stay juicy and tender during cooking. Look for chicken that is fresh, with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. If you’re looking for variety, shrimp, tofu, or beef are fantastic alternatives that can easily be swapped in.
How should I store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water in a pan over low heat to maintain moisture. This keeps the dish delicious and prevents it from drying out!
Can I freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Very! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop with a little water to revive its texture and flavor.
What if my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein sauce is too salty?
No worries! If the sauce has turned out saltier than you expected, you can balance it with a pinch of brown sugar or add a splash of water or low sodium chicken broth. Combine these options little by little until you find the flavor that suits you best. Adjusting spices gradually is key to achieving a perfect balance.
Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Certainly! This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and noodles. If there are concerns about allergies, be mindful of the oyster sauce; you can omit it or use a suitable substitute. For vegetarian options, tofu is a great protein swap, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal.
How can I customize my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with veggies?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite crunchy vegetables; ideas include broccoli, zucchini, or baby corn. To incorporate them, just stir-fry along with the bell peppers until they’re crisp-tender. Adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you use, ensuring they retain their vibrant colors and crunch!
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein: Your 30-Minute Homemade Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine your boneless chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for 5-10 minutes.
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare lo mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and toss them with a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth (or water), and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet. Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through—around 4-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, add minced garlic (and ginger if using). Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
- Add the Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Toss in Noodles: Gently add the cooked noodles and sliced green onions to the pan. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
