Craving Chinese Takeout? Try This Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe With Ramen Noodles In 20 Minutes!
What To Know
- This delectable dish is a testament to the versatility of ramen noodles, transforming them from a college student staple into a cornerstone of a satisfying meal.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, minus the seasoning packets.
- To reheat, thaw the lo mein overnight in the refrigerator or microwave it on low power until heated through.
In the realm of culinary delights, few dishes offer a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation like our easy chicken lo mein recipe with ramen noodles. This delectable dish is a testament to the versatility of ramen noodles, transforming them from a college student staple into a cornerstone of a satisfying meal. With its tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory sauce, this chicken lo mein recipe is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors Awaits
To embark on this culinary adventure, you will require the following ingredients:
- 2 packages of ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Preparation: A Step-by-Step Guide to Lo Mein Mastery
1. Boil the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, minus the seasoning packets.
- Drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Tenderize the Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
- Add the chicken strips and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté the vegetables until they are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
5. Bring It All Together:
- Add the cooked noodles, chicken, and sauce to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the chicken lo mein to a serving dish and garnish with thinly sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of flavors.
Tips for Ultimate Lo Mein Success:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients:
- Opt for fresh vegetables and tender chicken to elevate the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles:
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Season to Taste:
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and red pepper flakes to suit your personal preferences.
- Add Extra Vegetables:
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, baby corn, or snow peas for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
Variations: A Culinary Canvas for Creativity
- Vegetarian Delight:
- Omit the chicken and add extra tofu or tempeh for a meatless version.
- Spicy Kick:
- Amp up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or Sriracha sauce.
- Noodles of Choice:
- Experiment with different types of noodles, such as udon or soba, for a unique texture.
Storage and Leftovers: Preserving Lo Mein Magic
- Refrigeration:
- Store leftover chicken lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing:
- For longer storage, freeze the lo mein in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:
- To reheat, thaw the lo mein overnight in the refrigerator or microwave it on low power until heated through.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Lo Mein Experience
- Accompaniments:
- Serve chicken lo mein with steamed rice or a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnishes:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or chopped cilantro on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Sauces:
- Offer dipping sauces like hoisin sauce or sweet and sour sauce for those who prefer a bolder taste.
“The Final Touch”: A Culinary Farewell
Our easy chicken lo mein recipe with ramen noodles is a culinary masterpiece that combines convenience with extraordinary taste. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you towards creating a dish that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Top Questions Asked
1. Can I use store-bought chicken broth instead of making my own?
- Yes, store-bought chicken broth is a convenient alternative, but be sure to choose a low-sodium option to control the saltiness of the dish.
2. What are some substitutes for oyster sauce?
- Fish sauce or hoisin sauce can be used as alternatives to oyster sauce, offering unique flavor profiles.
3. How can I make my lo mein vegetarian?
- Simply omit the chicken and add extra tofu or tempeh for a meatless version that is equally delicious.