How to make Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Directions:
- Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli, stir-frying for about 3-4 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet; add cooked noodles.
- Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the noodles and toss everything together until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and soft noodles. The blend of soy sauce and oyster sauce gives it a delightful umami taste, making it a favorite for those who enjoy an extra saucy meal. It’s not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Imagine a plate filled with colorful vegetables and tender chicken, all mixed with noodles coated in a rich sauce. It appeals to both the eyes and the palate, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Plus, the preparation is fairly simple, so even novice cooks can create this meal with confidence.
Nutriments benefits
This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here are some highlights:
- Chicken Breast: A great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers and broccoli add vitamins A, C, and K as well as fiber, helping to keep you full and healthy.
- Noodles: Lo mein noodles give a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your daily activities.
- Garlic: Known for its antioxidant properties, garlic adds flavor and health benefits. It may help boost the immune system and reduce blood pressure.
- Oyster Sauce and Soy Sauce: While these provide excellent flavor, they do contain sodium, so it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation.
By combining these ingredients, you get a balanced meal that is rich in flavor and nutritional benefits.
What to Serve With Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein can stand alone as an excellent main dish. However, if you want to add variety to your meal, consider these side dishes:
- Spring Rolls: These crispy delights complement the dish nicely and are easy to make or find pre-made.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A warm bowl of soup can be a fantastic starter, bringing a comforting and spicy note to your meal.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Adding a side of extra sautéed vegetables can enhance the nutritional value and add more colors to your plate.
- Asian-style Salad: A refreshing salad with a sesame dressing can balance the heaviness of the lo mein while providing a crunch.
How to store Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
If you have leftovers, storing your Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is simple. Follow these tips:
- Cool it Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the lo mein in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and prevents any odors from other foods in the fridge.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the lo mein. Keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to eat again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips and mistakes to avoid
To make your Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Do Not Overcook Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for a time of about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
- High Heat for Stir-Frying: Authentic stir-frying requires high heat. Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients. This keeps the vegetables crisp.
- Prep Ingredients Before Cooking: Have everything ready to go before turning on the heat. Stir-frying happens quickly, and you don’t want to be chopping while other ingredients cook.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and garlic really enhance the dish. Try to use the freshest produce you can find for the best flavor.
Variation
While the core recipe is delicious, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Consider these variations:
- Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each provides a unique twist on the flavor.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Noodle Substitutes: If lo mein noodles aren’t available, alternative noodles such as spaghetti or rice noodles can be used.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of sauce instead of oyster sauce?
Yes! If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or even a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar for a similar sweet-salty taste.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth or increase the amount of vegetables to maintain flavor.
3. Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure that your noodles are gluten-free as well. Rice noodles can be a convenient option.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Cook the noodles just before serving to keep everything fresh.
5. What can I do if the lo mein seems dry?
If your lo mein seems dry after reheating, add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to moisten it up while stirring. This adds flavor back to the dish as well.
Enjoy creating your Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein and watch how it becomes a favorite in your home! Happy cooking!
Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles Cook according to package instructions
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced Tender and lean protein
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil For cooking
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor and health benefits
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced Can use any color
- 1 cup broccoli florets For added nutrition
Sauces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce For umami flavor
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce Adds richness
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil For finishing touch
Seasonings
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference
Garnish
- to taste Green onions and sesame seeds Optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Cooking
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli, stir-frying for about 3-4 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet; add cooked noodles.
- Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the noodles and toss everything together until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.