Name: Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 pound dry lo mein or spaghetti; 1/2 cup tamari/soy sauce; 1/4 cup hoisin sauce; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons salted butter; 1 pound ground chicken; 6 cloves garlic, sliced or chopped; 1 teaspoon chili flakes; black pepper; 3 cups mixed stir fry veggies(carrots/zucchini/bell peppers/broccoli); 1/4 cup fresh basil baby leaves and chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

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Nothing beats a quick, delicious meal like Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein after a long day. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was racing against the clock, needing to whip up something tasty for dinner in no time. The vibrant colors of the mixed stir-fry veggies, the aroma of the garlic, and the satisfying chew of the lo mein came together in a symphony of flavors. It was a weekday savior! Now, every time I prepare this dish, it brings back that sense of urgency and satisfaction, knowing I can create a restaurant-quality meal in less than 15 minutes. Whether I’m cooking for myself or impressing friends, this recipe never fails to deliver joy and flavor.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

Why This Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein Stands Out

It’s Ready in a Flash

One of the most compelling reasons to love Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is its speed. With just a few minutes of prep and cook time, you can serve a delicious dish that rivals takeout. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and toasted sesame oil creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that’s full of depth. Every bite bursts with flavor, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Plus, the garlic and chili flakes add a wonderful kick!

Customizable

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the mixed stir-fry veggies for whatever you have on hand. From bell peppers to snap peas, the possibilities are endless. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and make the dish your own.

Healthy Ingredients

With a mix of fresh veggies and protein-rich ground chicken, Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein strikes a balance between taste and nutrition. It’s a great option for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on health.

Warm and Comforting

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of noodles. The lo mein is satisfyingly chewy, and when combined with the savory sauce and tender chicken, it feels like a big hug on a plate. Perfect for any occasion!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe works just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as it does for hosting friends. Whether you’re serving it up on a busy evening or treating guests, Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is bound to impress.

What’s In This Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Great dishes start with great ingredients, and Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is no exception. Each component plays a critical role in creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. The key players here include fresh vegetables, savory ground chicken, and a rich sauce that brings everything together. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this delightful dish.

1 pound dry lo mein or spaghetti – The base of this dish, providing that satisfying chew.
1/2 cup tamari/soy sauce – A key ingredient for that delicious umami flavor.
1/4 cup hoisin sauce – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil – Incorporates a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
2 tablespoons salted butter – For sautéing and adding creaminess.
1 pound ground chicken – The protein in this dish, making it hearty and filling.
6 cloves garlic, sliced or chopped – Essential for a strong aromatic foundation.
1 teaspoon chili flakes – For a touch of heat that elevates the flavor.
black pepper – A seasoning staple to enhance all flavors.
3 cups mixed stir fry veggies (carrots/zucchini/bell peppers/broccoli) – Provides freshness and crunch.
1/4 cup fresh basil baby leaves and chopped green onions – For garnish and an extra burst of flavor.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds – Adds texture and a final pop of flavor.

Cooking Instructions for Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to cook! Making Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is straightforward and fun. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to package directions. This usually involves boiling them in salted water until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine tamari/soy sauce, hoisin sauce, toasted sesame oil, and 1/4 cup water. Whisk these together until well combined, ensuring the sauces blend perfectly.
In a large skillet, melt salted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the ground chicken. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Use a spatula to break the chicken into smaller pieces.
Next, add the garlic and chili flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. You want a nice aromatic base without burning the garlic.
Now, season the mixture with black pepper. Then, add the mixed stir fry veggies to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the veggies are tender but still crisp.
Once the veggies are cooked, pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring everything to a low simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for 2 to 3 minutes.
Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat everything through.
Serve the noodles warm, garnished with toasted sesame seeds, basil baby leaves, and chopped green onions on top.
Enjoy your delicious Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t overcook the noodles: Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente for the best texture. They should have a slight bite to them.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy are all great options.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and vegetables will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them entirely.

Make It Your Own

You can easily adapt Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the noodles.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked noodles and chicken mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garnish: Try adding crushed peanuts or chopped cilantro as an extra garnish for added flavor.
Variations: Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.

Accompaniments for Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

When serving Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, there are plenty of delicious accompaniments to consider:

Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make a great appetizer before diving into the hearty noodles.
Fried Rice: Pair it with a side of fried rice for a classic Asian-inspired meal.
Salad: A light salad with sesame dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, meal preps, or even as a part of a potluck spread.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, allow them to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for lo mein noodles, you can easily substitute them with other types like spaghetti, rice noodles, or even whole wheat noodles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodle you choose, as each has different cooking requirements. Enjoy your favorite noodles in this savory dish!

The spice level of Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein can be easily adjusted to suit your taste. The recipe includes chili flakes, which add a mild heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh sliced chili peppers. Conversely, you can omit the chili flakes entirely for a milder flavor. It’s all about what you enjoy!

This recipe is highly customizable! You can use any combination of vegetables you like or have on hand. Popular choices include bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and zucchini. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. The more colorful the mix, the more appealing your dish will be!

Definitely! Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare a large batch and divide it into individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they should stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Sesame Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the best of Asian-inspired cuisine to your kitchen. With its delightful combination of chewy noodles, savory chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a meal that satisfies any craving. I encourage you to give it a try—it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!