Name: Quick Garlic Chicken Lo Mein That Beats Takeout Every Time
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast or Thighs (Can substitute with shrimp, beef, or tofu.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch; 4 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Use gluten-free if needed.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce; 1 tablespoon Hoisin Sauce (Adjust to taste.); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Chicken Broth or Water; 8 ounces Lo Mein Noodles (Spaghetti can be substituted.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 1 cup Bell Peppers (Sliced.); 1 cup Carrots (Julienned.); 1 cup Snap Peas; 1/4 cup Green Onions (Sliced, for garnish.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Optional, grated.)

In just 30 minutes, you can go from a busy kitchen to a serene dining table with my Quick & Easy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein. The aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables fills the air, making it a delightful treat for both the appetite and the soul. This dish is not only a quick dinner solution but also offers flexibility — you can easily swap in shrimp, beef, or tofu to suit any palate. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more veggies without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight meal or craving a cozy dish to share, this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is your ticket to homemade goodness. Curious about making it? Let’s dive into the irresistible details!

Why is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein a Must-Try?

Quick preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weekdays.
Flavor explosion: The rich aroma of garlic, combined with savory sauces, creates an irresistible taste that rivals your favorite takeout.
Adaptable ingredients: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu to cater to your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
Nutritious & balanced: Packed with colorful vegetables, it’s a delicious way to sneak in healthy ingredients, making mealtime more wholesome.
Homemade comfort: Elevate your dining experience with this cozy dish, ensuring satisfaction for both your taste buds and your loved ones.
Elevate your meals effortlessly with other fantastic dishes like Gooey Cheesy Garlic or Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients

• Join me in whipping up this delicious Garlic Chicken Lo Mein with simple ingredients that promise mouthwatering flavors!

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast or Thighs – The heart of our dish, giving it a hearty bite; you can swap in shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different twist!
• Cornstarch – This secret ingredient helps marinate the chicken to perfection.

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Infusing umami, it’s essential for that takeout taste; be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce if needed!
• Sesame Oil – Adds a delightful nuttiness; vegetable oil can substitute, but the flavor will vary.
• Oyster Sauce – Boosts the savory depth of our sauce; essential for that authentic flavor.
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds a hint of sweetness and complexity; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the savory notes, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
• Chicken Broth or Water – Essential for mixing everything into a perfect sauce.

For the Noodles & Vegetables
• Lo Mein Noodles – The backbone of our dish; in a pinch, spaghetti works just as well.
• Garlic – The star aromatic; fresh garlic elevates the overall flavor.
• Bell Peppers – Adds crunch and color; feel free to swap for other veggies, like broccoli!
• Carrots – Sweet and nutritious, helping you sneak in those veggies!
• Snap Peas – For a bright, crisp texture; other vegetables can be used based on your favorites.
• Green Onions – For garnish and fresh flavor; chives work as a suitable substitute.
• Fresh Ginger (optional) – Adds warmth and spice; leave out if it’s not on hand.

Enjoy collecting these ingredients for a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or thighs with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Allow the chicken to marinate for 5–10 minutes, letting the flavors penetrate and ensuring tenderness. While this happens, prep your other ingredients to keep the cooking process smooth and quick.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
Follow the package instructions to cook your lo mein noodles, typically boiling for about 4–5 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and immediately toss them with a drizzle of sesame oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Set the noodles aside as you transition to cooking the chicken.

Step 3: Whisk the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together your sauce ingredients: soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth or water. Blend them until well combined and the brown sugar dissolves. This rich, savory sauce will be the star of your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, marrying perfectly with the ingredients in the next steps.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat, adding a splash of vegetable oil. Once shimmering, add the marinated chicken and spread it out to ensure even cooking. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5–7 minutes until it’s well browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, and throw in minced garlic and optional grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning. This step infuses the dish with a delightful garlicky flavor, essential to a mouthwatering Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables
Next, add sliced bell peppers, julienned carrots, and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3–4 minutes until they are vibrant and crisp-tender. Keep the heat high and continuously stir to ensure that everything cooks evenly, enhancing both color and flavor while retaining that delightful crunch.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the previously cooked chicken to the pan, and pour in the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Gently stir everything together and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the ingredients. This step ensures all the flavors meld beautifully, elevating your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.

Step 8: Toss in Noodles and Garnish
Finally, add the prepared lo mein noodles into the pan, along with sliced green onions for a fresh bite. Toss everything together over low heat for another minute until each noodle is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through. Serve the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein hot and enjoy the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas!

Expert Tips for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption and delicious tenderness.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor significantly; powdered garlic won’t provide the same aromatic depth.
Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Stir-fry your veggies until crisp-tender to maintain their color and nutrients. Overcooking will lead to mushiness.
Toss Noodles with Oil: After cooking, always toss lo mein noodles with sesame oil to prevent them from sticking together.
Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients according to your family’s preferences; add chili flakes for a spicy kick or extra hoisin for sweetness.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to maintain moisture in your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Variations

Customize your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein experience with delightful twists that cater to your tastes and dietary needs!

Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick of heat. Spice lovers will appreciate the added depth!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for tofu or a medley of vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and zucchini to make it completely plant-based.
Sauce Boost: Mix in a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for a zesty tang that brightens the overall flavor.
Noodle Alternatives: Use rice noodles or spiralized zucchini to give your dish a gluten-free twist while also introducing another texture.
Protein Shuffle: Switch chicken for shrimp or beef. Each option brings a new taste dimension, perfect for varying weeknight meals!
Flavor-Infused Oil: Try infusing your cooking oil with garlic or ginger for an extra layer of flavor throughout the dish. It’s a simple yet effective method!
Herb Garnish: Top your dish with fresh cilantro or basil for a fragrant finish that elevates the overall presentation and taste.
Veggie Boost: Add more vegetables such as bok choy, baby corn, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. The more, the merrier when it comes to colorful veggies!

Explore these ideas while whipping up your next batch, and be sure to check out some of my favorites like Garlic Butter Steak for additional inspiration!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain its delicious flavors while preventing spoilage.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, separate noodles and sauce to prevent sogginess.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.

Make-Ahead Tip: If meal-prepping, consider storing ingredients separately for the freshest outcome. This way, you can reheat each component to perfection when it’s time to eat!

What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

Enjoying your savory noodles is only the start—let’s elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairs!

Steamed Dumplings: With their tender, fluffy exterior, dumplings provide an ideal complement and add a delightful texture contrast.
Asian Cucumber Salad: This crunchy salad brings a refreshing and tangy accompaniment, perfectly balancing the savory flavors of the lo mein.
Fresh Spring Rolls: Light and filled with crisp vegetables, these rolls offer a fresh and vibrant contrast to the hearty garlic chicken.
Sesame Broccoli: A simple side of sautéed broccoli drizzled with sesame oil enhances the meal’s healthiness, adding color and nutrients.
Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, miso soup is a soothing starter that complements the richness of the lo mein beautifully.
Chili Garlic Edamame: Spicy yet satisfying, these steamed soybeans provide a delightful punch that enhances the meal’s overall flavor.
Szechuan Green Beans: Their crisp-tender texture and spicy kick provide both heat and crunch, making them a fantastic pairing for your noodles.
Thai Iced Tea: This deliciously sweet beverage rounds off the meal with a beautiful balance against your savory lo mein.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the sweet, creamy mango sticky rice delivers a delightful finish, making your meal unforgettable.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Chicken Lo Mein are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, making dinnertime a breeze. Simply combine your chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil, and let it soak in all that flavor. For the sauce, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy your Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, quickly sauté the garlic and veggies, add marinated chicken, and pour in the sauce. Toss in the noodles at the end for a fresh, delicious meal that saves you precious time on busy weeknights!

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe vegetables for my Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely! Opt for vibrant, firm vegetables without any dark spots or blemishes. For bell peppers, look for shiny skin and crisp texture. Carrots should be bright orange and crunchy, while snap peas should be bright green and snap easily when bent. This ensures you get the freshest, tastiest ingredients for your dish.

How should I store leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and texture, consider storing the noodles separately from the sauce and vegetables. When ready to reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth to bring moisture back into the dish.

Can I freeze Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Of course! Freeze the Garlic Chicken Lo Mein in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To avoid sogginess, I recommend separating the noodles from the sauce before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of water or broth to help revive its texture.

What should I do if my noodles are sticking together when I reheat?
It happens to the best of us! If your noodles are sticking, simply add a drizzle of sesame oil or a splash of water to the skillet while reheating. Stir gently with a spatula to loosen them up and prevent them from clumping. This will help reinvigorate their texture, bringing back that delightful chewiness.

Is there a way to make this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein recipe suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! To turn this into a gluten-free dish, swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, ensure your hoisin sauce and any other sauces used are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy this delicious meal without any dietary worries!

Can my pets share this Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
While it might be tempting to share a little, it’s best to keep this dish to yourself. Garlic and onions, key ingredients in Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, can be harmful to dogs and cats in large quantities. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends!