Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

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Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a savory, stir-fried noodle dish that’s beloved in Asian-American cuisine for its rich garlic flavor, tender slices of chicken, and crisp vegetables. It’s the perfect fusion of convenience, flavor, and comfort—offering everything you want in a satisfying weeknight dinner. Typically made in under 30 minutes, this dish is a go-to for families and food lovers alike.

Unlike many other noodle-based dishes, Lo Mein focuses on soft, saucy noodles that are lightly tossed, not fried. The garlic in this recipe is more than just a seasoning—it’s the foundation that gives the dish its bold aroma and taste. Paired with a soy-based sauce, crunchy veggies, and succulent chicken breast, Garlic Chicken Lo Mein brings both nutrition and comfort to the table.

If you’re interested in the background of Lo Mein and its preparation, you can learn more about Lo Mein history and preparation from a culinary perspective. Plus, if you’re curious about ways to recreate or modify this dish, Pinterest offers more Lo Mein recipe inspirations for every taste and dietary need.

Internally, check out our own guides on quick Asian-inspired dinners and healthy noodle recipes to broaden your menu with similarly easy meals that don’t sacrifice flavor.

🍗 Ingredients breakdown and their role 🌶️

A winning Garlic Chicken Lo Mein starts with the right mix of ingredients, each contributing to the final flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Here’s a breakdown of each essential component:

  • Lo Mein noodles (or spaghetti)
    These egg-based noodles are slightly chewy and perfect for soaking up sauce. If you can’t find them, spaghetti is a great substitute.

  • Chicken breast
    Lean, high in protein, and quick-cooking, chicken breast slices make the dish hearty without being heavy.

  • Garlic
    The aromatic base of the entire recipe. Four cloves of garlic add pungency and depth to every bite.

  • Red bell pepper
    Adds sweetness and vibrant color. Sliced thin, it complements the noodles both in taste and texture.

  • Shredded carrots
    Offer natural sweetness, crunch, and a nutrient boost.

  • Broccoli florets
    Provide earthy flavor and fiber. Cooked just until tender-crisp, they balance the soft noodles beautifully.

  • Low-sodium soy sauce
    The salty, umami-rich base of the sauce. Going low-sodium helps control overall salt levels.

  • Oyster sauce
    Adds a deep, savory note. You can learn more about oyster sauce and its culinary uses to understand its impact.

  • Hoisin sauce
    Thick and slightly sweet, this sauce gives the dish complexity. Here’s a great overview of hoisin sauce origins.

  • Sesame oil
    Just a teaspoon adds a nutty aroma that completes the dish. Explore the nutritional profile of sesame oil if you’re interested in its health benefits.

  • Sugar
    Balances the salty and umami notes.

  • Green onions
    Added as garnish, they provide freshness and a mild oniony zing.

Want to see this dish reimagined? Head to garlic chicken cooking ideas for Pinterest-inspired variations.

Also, explore our feature on ingredient swaps for popular dishes to adapt the recipe to your diet.

🔪 Step-by-step cooking instructions 🍴

Creating Garlic Chicken Lo Mein at home is easier than you might think. With a few smart steps, you can whip up this dish like a pro. Follow these instructions closely:

  1. Cook the noodles:
    Boil 8 oz of Lo Mein noodles (or spaghetti) according to the package. Drain and set aside.

  2. Prepare the sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together:

    • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

    • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

    • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

    • 1 teaspoon sugar

    Set this sauce aside.

  3. Sauté the chicken:
    In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
    Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  4. Stir-fry the vegetables:
    In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir in garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli.
    Cook for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

  5. Combine all ingredients:
    Add the cooked chicken and noodles back into the pan. Pour the sauce over everything and toss well to coat. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.

  6. Garnish and serve:
    Top with chopped green onions and serve hot.

The method of stir-frying is essential here—it keeps the vegetables vibrant and flavorful.

Check out our tutorial on how to stir-fry like a chef if you’re new to the technique.

🧠 Tips for perfect Garlic Chicken Lo Mein every time 🍽️

Here are key tips to make your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein consistently amazing:

  • Use high heat:
    A hot wok ensures quick cooking and helps preserve texture.

  • Mise en place is key:
    Chop, measure, and prepare everything before you start cooking.

  • Don’t overcook noodles:
    Cook them al dente so they don’t turn mushy when stir-fried.

  • Sauce absorption:
    Toss noodles thoroughly with sauce off-heat for even coating without overcooking.

  • Fresh garlic is non-negotiable:
    Skip pre-minced versions for authentic taste.

Need more help with cooking hacks? Visit easy weeknight dinners for expert-level kitchen shortcuts.

🌱 Variations and substitutions for every lifestyle 🧘‍♀️

This dish is versatile, making it ideal for customizing to different diets and tastes. Here are some top variations:

  • Vegetarian:
    Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh. Use vegetarian oyster sauce.

  • Gluten-free:
    Substitute with rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti. Use tamari in place of soy sauce.

  • Spicy:
    Add chili garlic sauce or a dash of Sriracha during sauce preparation.

  • Low-carb:
    Swap noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

  • Other proteins:
    Try shrimp, turkey bacon, or beef strips for a twist.

Explore more healthy Asian recipes that align with your dietary goals.

Also, our recipe substitution guide offers more swap options for allergens and preferences.

🧊 Meal prep and storage guide 🥡

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein makes for excellent leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly:

  • Refrigerator:
    Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer:
    Freeze in meal prep containers for up to 1 month. Reheat directly in a skillet for best texture.

  • Reheating tip:
    Add a splash of water or broth while reheating to revive the sauce and prevent dryness.

For those interested in long-term prep, explore meal planning for Asian meals with ready-to-use guides.

🧮 Nutritional breakdown and health considerations 💪

Here’s a full breakdown of the nutritional value of one serving of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein:

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 460 kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 45g
Total Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 3g
Fiber 4g
Sugars 7g
Sodium 720mg

Health tips:

  • Use low-sodium soy sauce and hoisin to reduce salt.

  • Add more vegetables to increase fiber content.

  • Swap noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to fit dietary needs.

Need more recipes with under 500 calories? Our collection of low-calorie dinners is packed with flavorful options.

🥟 Serving suggestions and pairings 🍶

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein can be a complete meal on its own, but here are some great side options:

  • Spring rolls

  • Egg drop soup

  • Asian cucumber salad

  • Steamed dumplings

Best drinks:
Serve with hot green tea or sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber for a refreshing contrast.

Visit stir fry vegetables for additional side dish inspiration that pairs beautifully with this dish.

❌ Common mistakes to avoid while making Lo Mein ⚠️

Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect dish every time:

  • Overcooking noodles or chicken:
    Always cook in batches and remove promptly to avoid drying.

  • Using too much oil:
    Stick to 2 tablespoons to prevent greasiness.

  • Sauce timing:
    Add sauce last to ensure ingredients retain their individual flavor.

  • Cold wok or pan:
    Always preheat to avoid soggy vegetables.

Want more tips like these? Read our piece on kitchen mistakes that ruin meals to save every recipe you make.

❓FAQs about Garlic Chicken Lo Mein 🤔

What is Lo Mein made of?
Lo Mein is made of wheat-based noodles, vegetables, a protein (often chicken), and a soy-based sauce.

Can I use spaghetti noodles instead of Lo Mein?
Yes! Spaghetti works well and is a great substitute if Lo Mein noodles aren’t available.

What is the difference between Lo Mein and Chow Mein?
Lo Mein is boiled and tossed with sauce, while Chow Mein is fried until crispy.

How do I make Garlic Chicken Lo Mein healthier?
Use lean protein, reduce sodium sauces, and load up on vegetables.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes—just replace chicken with tofu and ensure sauces are plant-based.

For more quick answers, visit our Asian recipe FAQ hub covering a wide range of culinary topics.

✅ Final thoughts on Garlic Chicken Lo Mein 🍲

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is not just a tasty dish—it’s a fast, flexible, and fulfilling meal that works for nearly every dietary preference. From weeknight dinners to meal-prep Sundays, it checks every box: bold flavor, easy steps, and endless customization.

With the perfect mix of umami, texture, and nutritional value, this recipe belongs in every home cook’s rotation.

Whether you’re new to Asian cuisine or a seasoned stir-fry master, this dish is a delicious way to bring homemade comfort to your table.

Explore. Cook. Enjoy. 🌟

Print

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a fast and flavorful stir-fry dish made with tender chicken breast, crisp vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles tossed in a rich garlic and soy-based sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal the whole family will love.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Chicken
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Noodles:

8 oz Lo Mein noodles (or spaghetti)

Protein:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin

Vegetables:

1 red bell pepper, julienned

1 cup shredded carrots

2 cups broccoli florets

2 green onions, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

For Stir-Frying:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce:

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Cook 8 oz of Lo Mein noodles (or spaghetti) according to the package directions.

Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon sugar

Set aside for later use.

3. Sauté the chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Season chicken slices with salt and pepper.

Add chicken to the pan and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Remove chicken and set aside.

4. Stir-fry the vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.

Add minced garlic, bell pepper, shredded carrots, and broccoli florets.

Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Combine everything

Add the cooked chicken and drained noodles to the pan with the vegetables.

Pour the prepared sauce over everything.

Toss well using tongs or two spoons to ensure even coating.

Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

6. Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.

Spicy Twist: Add chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

No Oyster Sauce? Substitute with mushroom sauce or extra hoisin.

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