Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? It takes me back to those cherished moments spent with my grandma, her apron dusted with flour, as she taught me the secrets of simple yet soul-satisfying meals. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that wraps you in that same nostalgic warmth: Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace after a long day, a nod to the power of home-cooked goodness.

Imagine the tender chicken, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and ginger, sizzling in the pan while vibrant vegetables add a splash of color and crunch. The buckwheat noodles, perfectly cooked, soak up the savory sauce, bringing everything together in a harmonious blend. This recipe isn’t just about taste; it’s about creating memories. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or just for yourself, each bite is a reminder of the simple joys of home cooking.

The beauty of this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein lies in its simplicity and versatility. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to make it; it’s designed to be approachable for all skill levels. Plus, it’s a delightful way to incorporate more veggies into your diet, making it a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. So, let’s dive in and make some delicious memories together.

Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein brings a unique twist to traditional Asian dishes, making it a delightful addition to any family meal. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:

1. Flavorful Journey: The combination of garlic, ginger, and Szechuan garlic butter creates a flavor profile that’s both bold and comforting. The savory depth of garlic, paired with the subtle heat of ginger, ensures each bite is packed with an explosion of taste.

2. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and cabbage, it’s a nutritious choice that’s perfect for those looking to eat healthier. These veggies are not just fillers; they bring essential vitamins and minerals to the dish, making it both delicious and beneficial for your health.

3. Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 40 minutes, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights. The efficiency of this recipe doesn’t compromise its quality, allowing you to serve a restaurant-quality dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

4. Family-Friendly: The mild spice and savory notes make it a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring clean plates all around. The familiar flavors of garlic and soy sauce appeal to a broad range of palates, making it a go-to meal for families with diverse tastes.

5. Versatile Delight: Whether served as a main dish or a side, it pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and other dishes. Its adaptability means it can complement a casual lunch or become a star at your dinner party.

Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

To whip up this delightful Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade meals:

• Skillet or Wok: Essential for sautéing the chicken and vegetables to perfection. A wok is particularly useful as its high sides prevent spills and allow for easy stirring.

• Large Pot: For boiling the buckwheat lo mein noodles. Ensure the pot is large enough to allow the noodles to move freely, ensuring even cooking.

• Sharp Knife: To make quick work of cutting the chicken and slicing the vegetables. A sharp knife not only makes the task easier but also safer, as it reduces the risk of slipping.

• Cutting Board: A stable surface for preparing your ingredients. Opt for a non-slip version to keep it steady during chopping.

• Mixing Bowls: Useful for marinating the chicken and mixing sauces. Having a set of different sizes can be handy for various prep tasks.

How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Vegetables:

• 10 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cups cabbage, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 4 green onions, sliced
• 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced

For the Noodles & Sauce:

• 8 ounces buckwheat lo mein noodles
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Szechuan garlic butter (see note)
• Cooking oil (e.g., canola or vegetable oil)

Instructions

• Prepare the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix cubed chicken, garlic powder, salt, pepper, fish sauce, and grated ginger until evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

• Cook the Noodles:

1. Boil lo mein noodles according to package directions, undercooking by 1–2 minutes for a firmer texture. Drain and set aside. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

• Sauté the Chicken:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a hot skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
3. In the last 2 minutes, add 1 tablespoon of Szechuan garlic butter and half of the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. This step enhances the aroma and depth of flavor.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

• Sauté the Vegetables:

1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of cooking oil if needed.
2. Add the remaining minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute.
3. Toss in cabbage, broccoli, carrots, green onions, mushrooms, and celery. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Adjust the time based on your preference for crunchiness.

• Combine Everything:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables.
2. Add the undercooked noodles to the pan.
3. Pour in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, fish sauce, black pepper, and the remaining Szechuan garlic butter.
4. Stir-fry everything together over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, until the noodles are fully cooked and coated in sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce for saltiness or hoisin for sweetness.

• Serve & Enjoy:

1. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.

Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: Asian • Preparation Time: 20 minutes • Cooking Time: 20 minutes • Total Time: 40 minutes • Calories: 450 per serving • Servings: 4

Note: For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Szechuan garlic butter or substitute with regular garlic butter.

Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients

This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein not only promises delightful flavors but also comes with some surprising benefits:

• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and ability to enhance flavors. It’s a staple in many cuisines for its aromatic qualities and health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and improving heart health.

• Ginger: Adds a zesty kick while aiding digestion and reducing inflammation. It’s a powerful root that can help alleviate nausea and improve gut health.

• Broccoli: A powerhouse of vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It supports immune function and helps maintain healthy skin and bones.

• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, offering a natural sweetness and vibrant color. They are excellent for eye health and contribute to a healthy immune system.

• Buckwheat Noodles: A nutritious alternative to traditional noodles, providing protein and essential minerals. They are gluten-free and offer a unique texture and flavor to the dish.

Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish

This Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a versatile companion to various beverages and dishes, making it perfect for any occasion:

• Green Tea: Complements the savory flavors with its earthy notes. The slight bitterness of green tea balances the sweetness of the dish beautifully.

• Spring Rolls: A crunchy appetizer that pairs well with the soft noodles. Their crispiness contrasts with the tender lo mein, offering a delightful textural experience.

• Cucumber Salad: Offers a refreshing contrast with its crisp texture and light dressing. The coolness of cucumbers offsets the warmth of the lo mein, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.

• Lemon Water: Cleanses the palate and enhances the meal’s flavors. The acidity of lemon water helps cut through the richness of the garlic butter, making each bite as exciting as the first.

Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare in my house!), storing them is a breeze. Simply place the cooled Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to relive the deliciousness, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of soy sauce or a bit of broth to revive the noodles and vegetables. This dish also makes a fantastic lunch option, bringing a taste of comfort to your midday break.

For a creative twist with leftovers, consider turning them into a baked lo mein casserole. Simply transfer the lo mein to a baking dish, sprinkle some cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This transforms the original dish into a comforting, cheesy delight.

As we wrap up our cozy kitchen chat, I hope this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein brings warmth and joy to your table, just as it has to mine. There’s a unique satisfaction in creating something delicious from scratch, a little slice of love served on a plate. So next time you’re seeking a comforting meal, remember this recipe and let it transport you back to simpler times, when the kitchen was the heart of the home and every dish was made with love.

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

A delicious and savory noodle dish packed with chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cubed
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated

For the Vegetables

• 10 garlic cloves minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger grated
• 2 cups cabbage shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 carrots shredded
• 4 green onions sliced
• 6 ounces mushrooms sliced
• 2 celery stalks sliced

For the Noodles & Sauce

• 8 ounces buckwheat lo mein noodles
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Szechuan garlic butter see note
• Cooking oil e.g., canola or vegetable oil

Equipment

• Skillet or Wok

Method

 

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix cubed chicken, garlic powder, salt, pepper, fish sauce, and grated ginger until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Noodles: Boil lo mein noodles according to package directions, undercooking by 1–2 minutes for a firmer texture. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a hot skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. In the last 2 minutes, add 1 tablespoon of Szechuan garlic butter and half of the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of cooking oil if needed. Add the remaining minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute. Toss in cabbage, broccoli, carrots, green onions, mushrooms, and celery. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add the undercooked noodles to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, fish sauce, black pepper, and the remaining Szechuan garlic butter. Stir-fry everything together over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, until the noodles are fully cooked and coated in sauce.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or Szechuan peppercorns. Adjust vegetables based on preference or availability.