If you're looking for a weeknight dinner that's packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, this quick chicken lo mein with noodles and stir-fried vegetables is your answer. It's fast, flexible, and fiercely delicious. Inspired by the classic Chinese lo mein recipe but tailored for busy home cooks, this version gives you that satisfying takeout experience without the wait (or the price tag). Whether you're craving an easy chicken lo mein or curious about how to make lo mein noodles at home, this dish delivers all the comfort and flavor in a single wok.

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Quick Chicken Lo Mein with Noodles and Stir-Fried Vegetables

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Chinese

Servings 4

Equipment

Wok Traditional and ideal for high-heat cooking. If you don’t have a wok, a large nonstick skillet or stainless steel frying pan works well.
Tongs or cooking chopsticks For tossing noodles and veggies evenly. Wooden spoons or silicone spatulas are also fine.
Medium pot To boil the noodles.
Colander For draining noodles after boiling.
Cutting board and sharp knife To prep your chicken and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Lo Mein

8 oz lo mein noodles fresh or dried; spaghetti or ramen can be substituted in a pinch
1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced (breasts work too, but thighs offer juicier flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce adds deeper color and flavor
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated

For the Vegetables

1 cup shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
1 cup snow peas
2 cups napa cabbage or green cabbage shredded
2 green onions sliced

Optional additions

A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Mushrooms broccoli, or baby corn for variety
A splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime for brightness

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a medium bowl, mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and a teaspoon of sesame oil. Add the sliced chicken and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit while you prep the rest of the ingredients—about 10 minutes is enough.

Step 2: Boil the Noodles

Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. If you're following a low mein noodles recipe easy style, you might use instant noodles or spaghetti. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce, and the rest of the sesame oil. Stir well and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of oil in your wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s browned and cooked through—about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the carrots, bell pepper, snow peas, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still vibrant.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the wok, add the cooked noodles, and pour in the sauce. Use tongs or chopsticks to toss everything together thoroughly. Keep the heat high and toss until everything is heated through and evenly coated, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer to bowls, garnish with green onions, and serve immediately. A squeeze of lime or a drizzle of chili oil can elevate it even further.

Pairings in Detail

Lo mein is a complete dish on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with:

Hot and sour soup: Adds a tangy contrast and extra warmth.
Cucumber salad with sesame dressing: For a refreshing, crunchy bite alongside the noodles.
Spring rolls: Especially if you’re doing a larger spread or hosting friends.
Jasmine green tea or Tsingtao beer: Both balance the savory-sweet profile of the dish.
Chili oil or Sriracha on the side for those who like it hot.

FAQs

1. What type of chicken works best for lo mein?

Chicken thighs are ideal due to their moisture and tenderness. However, chicken breasts also work well if you prefer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

2. Can I use other proteins like shrimp or pork?

Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Use the same marinade for pork strips to make a pork lo mein recipe or toss in pre-cooked shrimp at the end for a quick shrimp lo mein recipe variation.

3. What’s the difference between lo mein and chow mein?

While both dishes involve noodles, chow mein typically features crispy, fried noodles, whereas lo mein noodles are soft and tossed with sauce. If you’re after a chicken chow mein recipe easy style, just stir-fry the noodles until slightly crispy before adding sauce.

4. Is this a healthy lo mein recipe?

This version leans toward a healthier take: it includes lean protein, lots of vegetables, and can be made with low-sodium sauces. You can also opt for whole wheat noodles or add more vegetables for a high-fiber boost.

5. How does this compare to PF Chang’s lo mein recipe?

While inspired by the flavors of restaurant-style lo mein, this homemade lo mein emphasizes fresh ingredients and easy prep. You can achieve a similar flavor profile at home without preservatives or additives—and in less time than it takes for delivery.