Easy Chicken Lo Mein Sauce Recipe

When you crave comfort food, when you need a quick meal, when you want something that satisfies, Easy Chicken Lo Mein brings it all together. You might be surprised at how simple it is to whip up a tasty sauce that raises your dish, enhancing both chicken and vegetables. With just a few common ingredients, you can create a flavor-packed sauce that captures the essence of your favorite takeout. So, what goes into this effortless yet delightful recipe, and how can you customize it to suit your own taste?

Key Takeaways

• Combine 3 tbsp of soy sauce, 2 tbsp of oyster sauce, and 1 tbsp of hoisin sauce for a flavorful base sauce.
• Add 2 tsp of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and enhance flavor depth.
• Sweeten with 1 tsp of sugar or honey to balance the savory elements.
• Incorporate minced garlic and ginger to elevate the sauce with aromatic notes.
• Adjust the sauce ingredients to taste for desired sweetness or spiciness in your lo mein.

History

The history of lo mein is a fascinating journey that traces the evolution of a simple noodle dish into a beloved staple in both Chinese and American cuisines. Its origins date back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC to 220 AD), when Chinese wheat noodles began to gain popularity.

Here’s a closer look at its historical context:

• Geographic Roots: Initially, lo mein originated in Northern China, where wheat was the dominant crop. This led to the development of various noodle dishes across the country.

• Migration to the U.S.: In the 19th century, lo mein made its way to the United States with Chinese immigrants, contributing to a rich culinary exchange.

• Early Establishments: Pekin Noodle Parlor, established in 1911, is one of the longest-running Chinese restaurants in the U.S., likely serving early versions of lo mein. Pekin Noodle Parlor showcases the dish’s enduring legacy in American dining.

• Cultural Significance: The rise of Chinese restaurants in America wasn’t solely due to cuisine; immigration laws that favored restaurant owners allowed these establishments to flourish.

Through these transformations, lo mein has evolved, becoming a dish that reflects both Chinese heritage and American tastes.

Recipe

To whip up a delicious chicken lo mein, you’ll need to gather some fresh ingredients and sauces that will bring all the flavors together. This dish isn’t only quick to make but also offers a wonderful way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. The mix of savory sauces combined with tender chicken and crisp veggies will make for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. One key to achieving the perfect flavor in your dish is the use of dark soy sauce, which is essential for achieving the desired color and taste in the noodles.

Once you’ve prepared your ingredients, the cooking process is quite straightforward. Start by cooking your lo mein noodles and marinating the chicken to infuse flavor. Then, you’ll stir-fry both the chicken and vegetables before combining everything with a rich, savory sauce. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have a hearty dish ready to serve!

Ingredients:
– 8 oz uncooked lo mein noodles
– 8 oz boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
– Mixed vegetables (cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, and spinach)
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp oyster sauce
– 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp sugar or honey
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, minced
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– Optional: rice wine vinegar, light brown sugar, green onions, sesame seeds

Begin your chicken lo mein by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions; drain and set aside. In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch, allowing it to marinate for 15-30 minutes.

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat and stir-fry the marinated chicken until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and add the mixed vegetables, cooking until they’re tender. Return the chicken to the pan; combine everything and add the sauces, along with minced garlic and ginger. Stir well, ensuring the noodles are thoroughly heated and coated with the sauce before serving.

When preparing chicken lo mein, feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Experiment with different protein options such as shrimp, beef, or tofu, and mix in a variety of vegetables to keep things exciting.

Additionally, adjust the sauce ingredients for sweetness or spiciness based on your preferences. For an extra kick, consider adding chili flakes or sriracha. Remember, this dish is versatile and perfect for using up leftover ingredients from your fridge!

Final Thoughts

In the context of making chicken lo mein, the flexibility of the recipe is one of its greatest strengths. You can customize the sauce according to your taste preferences and dietary requirements. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Broth Options: Instead of chicken stock, try using vegetable stock or beef broth for a different base flavor.

• Soy Sauce Alternatives: Tamari, coconut aminos, or hoisin sauce can replace traditional soy sauce if you need gluten-free options or want to experiment.

• Spicy Additions: For those who enjoy heat, incorporating red pepper flakes or chili garlic sauce will boost flavor complexity. Utilizing fresh egg noodles will add a delightful chewy texture to your dish.

• Flavor Augmenters: Peanut butter and sesame oil can add a rich, nutty depth to your sauce.

Ultimately, both ingredients and preparation techniques contribute to a delightful lo mein dish. Focus on using fresh vegetables and high-quality noodles for the best results. Remember to balance your flavors: sweet, salty, and umami make the perfect harmony.

With these tips, you’ll create chicken lo mein that not only meets your expectations but can easily become a family favorite. Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to get creative!

FAQ

Noodle Preparation: Determine if your lo mein noodles are raw or pre-cooked. Raw noodles require boiling, while pre-cooked noodles should be brought to room temperature.

Ingredient Options: Common ingredients include:
– Chicken
– Cabbage
– Carrots
– Mung bean sprouts

You can also customize with veggies like broccoli or bell peppers. This allows you to take advantage of leftover vegetables from the fridge for a healthier meal option.

Cooking Methods: You can use a wok or a large skillet for quick stir-frying. Most recipes can be ready in under 30 minutes.

Sauce Components: The key sauce ingredients are:
– Soy sauce (low sodium is preferable)
– Hoisin sauce
– Sesame oil
– Oyster sauce

Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Many agree that lo mein tastes even better the next day!

Substitutions: If you don’t have lo mein noodles, spaghetti works as an alternative. You can also swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu as protein options.