If you have been searching for a dish that perfectly balances savory flavors, a bit of spice, and an abundance of fresh, crunchy vegetables, then you are in for a treat. The Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe delivers all that and more. This dish brings together tender, marinated chicken, vibrant veggies, and silky noodles, all tossed in a luscious sauce that hits every note from sweet to spicy with a satisfying umami depth. It’s a weekday dinner hero that impresses with bold flavors and comforting textures, guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing the Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe is delightfully simple thanks to a thoughtful selection of ingredients that each play a vital role. From the tender chicken and crunchy vegetables to the perfectly cooked noodles and rich sauce, every component contributes to that irresistible harmony.
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti: Provides the soft, chewy base that carries all the delicious flavors.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced: Offers tender protein embroidered with flavor when marinated.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for marinating): Adds a salty depth to the chicken, enhancing umami notes.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Gives the chicken a light coating that seals juices and helps create a perfect sear.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (divided): Imparts a fragrant nuttiness that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the plate.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds subtle sweetness and a crunchy texture contrast.
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas: Offers crispness and a fresh, green bite, balancing the richness.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Provides a hearty vegetable punch along with nutrients and color.
- 3 green onions, chopped: Delivers mild onion freshness and a pop of green.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic pungency.
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger: Adds zest and a warming spicy note.
- For the sauce: Combines low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water to create a perfectly balanced, flavorful coating.
How to Make Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Cook your lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions until they’re tender but still have a slight chew. Drain them well and toss with a tablespoon of sesame oil. This small step prevents sticking and gives the noodles a subtle toasty aroma that complements the dish spectacularly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch. This simple marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps to create a silky coating when cooked. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes to soak up all that savory goodness.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until the edges are golden and the meat is cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes. Removing the chicken from the skillet keeps it juicy while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, toss in your red bell pepper, shredded carrots, snap peas, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for 4 to 5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp—this texture contrast is key! Then, add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onions. Cook everything together for one more minute until fragrant and mouthwatering.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked noodles. Pour over the luscious sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat every noodle and veggie bite with that perfectly savory, spicy sauce. Let it heat through for about 2 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
The final touch transforms this dish from delicious to restaurant-worthy. Sprinkle some extra chopped green onions and a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top. These add freshness, crunch, and a pop of nutty flavor. If you like an extra kick, a drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of fresh lime brightens it up beautifully.
Side Dishes
Though this lo mein is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with simple sides can elevate your dining experience. Light cucumber salad or steamed dumplings complement the hearty noodles without overwhelming the palate. For a refreshing finish, a crisp Asian slaw or miso soup works wonders.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe in individual bowls or on striking platters garnished with fresh herbs and colorful veggies makes it feel festive and special. For a more casual vibe, serve family-style straight from the skillet, inviting everyone to dive in and enjoy the mix of flavors and textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe keeps beautifully. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld and deepen overnight, making leftovers just as enjoyable as freshly made.
Freezing
This lo mein freezes well if you want to prep ahead. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and maintain moist, tender textures. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and bring back that fresh-from-the-wok flavor.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, beef, or even a plant-based protein. Just adjust cooking times accordingly. Tofu works particularly well for a vegetarian twist while keeping that satisfying texture.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is adjustable thanks to the chili garlic sauce. You can tone it down by reducing or omitting the chili sauce if you prefer mild flavors, or amp it up by adding more or even some fresh chili slices. It’s all about your personal heat preference!
Are lo mein noodles essential?
While lo mein noodles are traditional, spaghetti or other similar wheat noodles make excellent substitutes. Just cook them according to package instructions and toss with a bit of sesame oil to avoid clumping before combining with the sauce and other ingredients.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Fresh vegetables give the best crunch and color, but frozen veggies can work in a pinch. Defrost and drain excess moisture first to prevent sogginess. Adjust stir-fry time slightly to avoid overcooking and losing texture.
Is this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?
This Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe is naturally dairy-free. For gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and check that oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free, as some brands contain wheat.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying the Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe for your next meal. It’s a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that balances comfort and excitement with ease. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this lo mein will make every bite a celebration of savory, spicy, and veggie-loaded goodness. Dive in and enjoy the delicious journey!
Print
Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein: Savory, Spicy & Loaded with Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Ultimate Chicken Lo Mein is a savory and spicy Asian-inspired stir-fry dish packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a flavorful homemade sauce. An easy, quick, and satisfying meal that’s loaded with nutrition and fantastic taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for marinating)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (divided)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Marinate Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and cornstarch. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 4–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add bell pepper, carrots, snap peas, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp. Add garlic, ginger, and green onions; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine and Sauce: Return chicken to the skillet along with cooked noodles. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Notes
- Swap vegetables according to preference or availability — zucchini, mushrooms, or baby corn are great alternatives.
- Use firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to control the spice level.
