Introduction
Easy Chicken Lo Mein is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. Whether you’re craving something speedy after a long day or need a family-friendly meal that won’t break the bank, this dish delivers flavor, nutrition, and simplicity in one pan. If you love Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners for their convenience, you’ll adore this stir-fry’s 20-minute prep time. It’s perfect for busy schedules, picky eaters, and anyone seeking wholesome Dinner Ideas Recipes without culinary gymnastics.
Nutritional Benefits
This Easy Chicken Lo Mein balances protein, veggies, and carbs for a satisfying yet light meal. Here’s a snapshot per serving (recipe serves 4):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 7g |
With lean chicken, fiber-rich veggies, and a savory-sweet sauce, it’s a Healthy Dinner Ideas staple that caters to gluten-free diets (use tamari instead of soy sauce and rice noodles).
Ingredients & Substitutions
The magic of Easy Chicken Lo Mein lies in its flexibility. Use what’s in your fridge or pantry!
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | Protein | Shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef |
| Lo mein noodles | Base | Spaghetti, udon, or zucchini noodles |
| Soy sauce | Umami/saltiness | Coconut aminos (for lower sodium) |
| Bell peppers & carrots | Crunch/color | Snap peas, broccoli, cabbage |
| Sesame oil | Flavor enhancer | Olive oil + ½ tsp toasted sesame seeds |
Equipment Needed
1. Large wok or skillet (nonstick works best)
2. Chef’s knife + cutting board
3. Tongs or chopsticks for tossing
4. Small bowl for sauce mixing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Ingredients: Slice chicken into thin strips. Julienne bell peppers and carrots. Cook noodles per package instructions.
2. Make the Sauce: Whisk 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tsp honey, and ½ tsp ginger in a bowl.
3. Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok. Sear chicken until golden (4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté Veggies: Add peppers and carrots to the wok. Stir-fry 3 minutes until crisp-tender.
5. Combine Everything: Toss noodles, chicken, and sauce into the wok. Stir-fry 2 minutes until glossy. Finish with sesame oil.
Perfect for Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners fans who prefer hands-off cooking? Try this stovetop version for a faster alternative. Serve immediately for Easy Weeknight Dinners that wow every time!
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Noodles too sticky? Rinse cooked noodles in cold water before adding to the wok.
– Sauce too bland? Amplify flavor with a splash of rice vinegar or chili garlic paste.
– Veggies soggy? Stir-fry on high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Reheat: Microwave with 1 tbsp water or stir-fry briefly to restore texture.
– Freeze: Portion cooled lo mein into freezer bags (3 months max).
– Meal Prep: Chop veggies and chicken ahead, then assemble on busy nights.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken Lo Mein proves that Dinner Meals don’t need to be complicated to be delicious. It’s a versatile, budget-friendly base for using up leftovers, aligning with Cheap Dinners For A Family goals. Pair it with our cozy Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners like beef stew to diversify your weekly rotation. Craving dessert? Try this vibrant rosewater raspberry sponge cake for a sweet finish!
FAQ
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Swap chicken for tofu or extra mushrooms.
Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, but freeze without noodles for best texture.
Q: How spicy can I make it?
A: Add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or Szechuan sauce to taste.
Q: What’s the best noodle brand for lo mein?
A: We love Twin Marquis or Fortune Noodle brands for authenticity.
Follow me on Pinterest for more Easy Chicken Lo Mein twists!
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