If you are craving a comforting, flavorful dish that brings a satisfying blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly sauced noodles, this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with garlicky goodness and a hint of sweet-savory sauce, every bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that feels homemade yet restaurant quality. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together meal, this recipe promises to become a fast favorite for anyone who loves Asian-inspired dishes with a personal twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the vibrant taste and texture of this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe. Each component, from fresh vegetables to the carefully balanced sauces, plays an essential role in creating that perfect harmony between savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors.
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner options, sliced thinly for quick cooking.
- Soy sauce: Provides the savory foundation and umami punch.
- Oyster sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth that complements the garlic.
- Sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
- Cornstarch: Helps to tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce.
- Hoisin sauce: Lends a sweet and tangy layer to the stir-fry sauce.
- Dark soy sauce (optional): Boosts color and adds complexity without overwhelming.
- Brown sugar: Balances the salty and savory with subtle sweetness.
- Minced garlic: The star ingredient that gives this recipe its irresistible garlicky flavor.
- Grated ginger: Adds a gentle zing and freshness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a touch of heat.
- Lo mein noodles (or spaghetti): The chewy base soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- Vegetable oil: Perfect for quick, high-heat stir-frying.
- Broccoli florets: Bring crunch and vibrant green color.
- Sliced carrots: Add sweetness and bright orange hues.
- Sliced bell peppers: Enhance flavor and color variety.
- Bean sprouts (optional): Offer a refreshing crisp bite.
- Chopped scallions: For brightness and a mild oniony taste.
- Thinly sliced onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For a toasty crunch and visual appeal during garnish.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch in a bowl. Toss the sliced chicken in this marinade to coat evenly. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes so the flavors soak in and the chicken becomes tender and juicy once cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This mix is where the magic happens, creating a rich, layered sauce that clings beautifully to both chicken and noodles.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles or spaghetti just until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, tossing with a touch of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken slices and stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, onion, and bean sprouts, stir-frying until tender-crisp and vibrant.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables, pour in the stir-fry sauce, and toss to coat everything evenly. Add the cooked noodles and scallions last, stirring gently until noodles absorb the sauce and all elements are heated through and perfectly melded.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped scallions over the finished dish for a delightful crunch and refreshing burst of color that complements the rich flavors of the lo mein.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe pairs wonderfully with light and simple sides like an Asian-style cucumber salad or steamed dumplings. Their refreshing or savory profiles offer lovely contrast to the bold noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the lo mein in individual lettuce cups or atop crispy wonton cups to impress guests with presentation and provide an interactive eating experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and texture quite well.
Freezing
Although freezing isn’t ideal for preserving noodle texture, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables separately for up to 2 months, reheating gently when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the lo mein in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and avoid drying out the noodles. Stir frequently for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional, spaghetti or linguine can be great substitutes if needed. Just cook them al dente and treat them similarly in the recipe.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can substitute with hoisin sauce mixed with a touch of soy sauce for a similar balance of sweet and savory, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
How spicy is this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe?
The base recipe is mild, but adding crushed red pepper flakes as listed gives it a nice gentle heat. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit for a completely mild dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for tofu or extra vegetables and use vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom sauce to keep the umami depth intact.
What’s the secret to perfectly cooked chicken in this dish?
Marinating the chicken with cornstarch and sauces helps tenderize it while quick stir-frying over high heat ensures it stays juicy without drying out.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe feels like sharing a little joy from my kitchen to yours. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make, proving you don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques to create a memorable, delicious meal. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the delightful blend of garlic-infused sauce, tender chicken, and fresh veggies in every bite!
Print
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, combining tender marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and savory stir-fry sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked lo mein noodles. This quick 30-minute dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Stir-Fry Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional)
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 10 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds and scallions (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside for later use.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, onion, and bean sprouts if using. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet or wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes or until fully cooked and slightly browned.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add Noodles: Add the drained noodles to the skillet and gently toss them with the chicken, vegetables, and sauce until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade garlic chicken lo mein!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for variation.
- If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Adding bean sprouts is optional but adds a nice crunch.
- Make sure not to overcook vegetables to keep them crisp.
