There’s magic in recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home, specifically when it’s a classic like Chicken Lo Mein. This dish, often overshadowed by the more well-known dim sum offerings at places like Din Tai Fung, is a hidden jewel that deserves its moment in the spotlight.
Its rich flavors and simple ingredients make it a dish that can quickly become a household favorite. Let’s dive into creating a delightful Chicken Lo Mein that rivals any takeout.
Chicken Lo Mein
A Noodle Love Affair
For many people, the love for stir-fried noodles is unmatched. Whether it’s the texture of the noodles or the savory sauce they’re tossed in, there’s something undeniably addictive about them. And while restaurants like Din Tai Fung have made a name for themselves with their dim sum, their noodle dishes, especially the Chicken Lo Mein, are a culinary experience in their own right.
Simplifying the Sophistication
The magnificence of Chicken Lo Mein lies in its simplicity. At its heart, it’s just noodles, chicken, and spinach, all brought to life with a garlicky soy sauce. But don’t let the short ingredient list fool you. When done precisely, this dish is a symphony of tastes that are comforting and refreshing.
A Recipe for Busy Lives
One of the most satisfactory things about this Chicken Lo Mein recipe is its ease and quickness. With a minimal ingredients list and a brief cooking time, it’s the ideal dish for those hectic weeknights when you’re desiring something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
A Dish for All Ages
This Chicken Lo Mein has been a hit across all age groups, from toddlers to adults. Its universal charm makes it a reliable choice for family dinners, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Chicken Lo Mein Possible Variations:
Keep in mind, with these modifications, the dish will no longer be a Din Tai Fung-inspired copycat version, but it will provide a memorable and delightful twist to the classic recipe:
Sauces:
- Add 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce for a richer, savory flavor.
- Add a spicy kick with 1 teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha sauce.
Vegetables:
- Include red bell peppers for added color and crunch.
- Blend in sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Broccoli florets can be a great complement for more greenery and texture.
Proteins:
- Switch out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian twist.
- Add sliced beef for a beef lo mein take.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for a fresh finish.
- Add a squeeze of lime for a zesty touch.
Noodles:
- Experiment with rice noodles or udon for a distinct noodle experience.
Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Alright, noodle fans, let’s get down to brass tacks. If you’re looking for a Chicken Lo Mein recipe that’s a cut above the rest, you’re in the right place. No fluff, just the good stuff. Ready to stir things up?
Ingredients:
For the Sauce:
- 4 Tbsp of low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp of sesame oil
For the Lo Mein:
- 8 oz of lo mein noodles, uncooked
- 2 1/2 tsp of olive oil
- 1 tsp of sesame oil
- 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into thin strips (medium size)
- 1 cup of shredded carrots
- 1 cup of snow peas
- 3 cups of fresh spinach
Instructions:
- Sauce Preparation: In a bowl, blend the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil thoroughly. Once mixed, set it aside for later use.
- Noodle Preparation: Pour water into a large pot and bring it to a boil. Add in the lo mein noodles, ensuring they cook to an al dente texture. After cooking, drain the water and place the noodles aside.
- Chicken Cooking: Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a sizable pan over medium heat. As the oils heat up, add the garlic, followed by the chicken. Continuously stir to make sure it is evenly cooking. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a separate dish.
- Vegetable Cooking: Add the carrots and snow peas using the same pan. Constantly stir them until they achieve a tender consistency, which should take approximately 3 minutes.
- Final Combination: Reintroduce the cooked chicken to the pan, followed by the spinach, the set-aside noodles, and the previously prepared sauce. Stir the mixture, ensuring the spinach softens and all ingredients are uniformly covered with the sauce. This should take around 2 minutes.
- Serving: Transfer the Chicken Lo Mein to serving dishes, and it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Note: If you can’t find lo mein noodles, linguine or spaghetti are great replacements.
Do you have a noodle crush on this Chicken Lo Mein? Give your Pinterest friends a taste of your impeccable food choices! Pin the image below and let the drooling commence!
Tips for the Best Chicken Lo Mein:
Noodle Selection:
Always opt for fresh lo mein noodles if available. They have a better texture and taste. If using dried noodles, ensure they are not overcooked; they should be al dente to avoid a mushy meal.
High Heat Cooking:
Stir-frying is best done on high heat. This ensures the ingredients are cooked fast, retaining their crunch and vibrant colors.
Preparation is Key:
Have all your ingredients prepared and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a fast process; you won’t have time to chop or measure once you begin.
Use a Wok or Large Pan:
A wok is ideal for stir-frying as its shape ensures even cooking. A large frying pan will do if you don’t have a wok. Ensure it’s adequately heated before adding ingredients.
Avoid Overcrowding:
If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding your pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying, which may result in a soggy meal.
Marinate the Chicken:
For added flavor, consider marinating your chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Fresh Ingredients:
Always use fresh veggies for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen vegetables, ensure they are totally thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasonings if needed. Depending on your preference, you might want to add a bit more soy sauce or a pinch of salt.
Serve Immediately:
Lo Mein is best served hot right out of your pan. The noodles can become soft and lose their delightful texture if left to sit.
Storing and Reheating
Chicken Lo Mein, like most stir-fried dishes, is best consumed fresh. However, if you have leftovers:
Refrigerator: Store the Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: While it’s possible to freeze Chicken Lo Mein, it’s not highly suggested as the texture of the noodles can change upon thawing, becoming a bit mushy. If you still choose to freeze it, ensure it’s in a sealed, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. For the best quality, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
Reheating Tips:
If reheating from the refrigerator, it’s best to use a stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan to help rehydrate your noodles and prevent them from drying out.
When reheating from the freezer, allow your Chicken Lo Mein to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
Always make sure that the Chicken Lo Mein is reheated thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
