Chicken Lo Mein Recipe: How to Make It at Home in 30 Minutes

Craving a big bowl of Chicken Lo Mein recipe but don’t want to order takeout? You’re in luck! This Chicken Lo Mein recipe is just as delicious—if not better—than your favorite restaurant’s. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and totally customizable to fit your tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Better Than Takeout: Enjoy fresh, homemade flavors without the extra grease or high sodium, and skip the delivery fees for a more budget-friendly meal.
Fast & Easy: This dish cooks up in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules when you want a delicious meal in no time.
Customizable: Add your favorite proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu, and swap veggies to suit your taste—making it a versatile dish for every preference.
One-Pan Wonder: With fewer dishes to wash, you can focus on enjoying your flavorful, comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

What is Chicken Lo Mein?

Chicken Lo Mein is a beloved Chinese noodle dish that brings together soft wheat noodles stir-fried with chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich umami-packed sauce. Unlike Chow Mein, which features crispy noodles, Chicken Lo Mein is all about soft, chewy noodles enveloped in a flavorful, glossy sauce.

This dish has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, often served in takeout boxes alongside fortune cookies. But here’s the best part—you can make your own Chicken Lo Mein at home using simple ingredients and no special equipment!

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process: from selecting the best noodles to perfecting that savory sauce. Let’s dive in and create the ultimate homemade Chicken Lo Mein!

For more delicious chicken ideas, don’t miss our Chicken and Potatoes Recipe—a classic favorite that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress

What is Chicken Lo Mein?

Chicken Lo Mein is a classic Chinese stir-fried noodle dish made with soft wheat noodles, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. The name “Lo Mein” (捞面) comes from the Cantonese words meaning “tossed noodles”, referring to how the noodles are mixed with sauce rather than pan-fried.

This dish is loved for its chewy noodles and umami-packed sauce, making it a staple in Chinese-American cuisine. It’s commonly found in takeout menus across the U.S., often served in those iconic white paper boxes. But here’s the good news—you can make an even tastier and healthier version at home!

Lo Mein vs. Chow Mein: What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse Lo Mein with Chow Mein, but they’re actually quite different:

• Lo Mein: Soft, boiled noodles tossed in sauce with stir-fried ingredients. The focus is on the chewy texture and flavorful sauce.
• Chow Mein: Noodles are pan-fried until crispy, giving them a crunchy texture. The sauce is usually lighter and absorbed quickly.

If you love tender, saucy noodles, then Lo Mein is the way to go!

The Origin and Popularity of Lo Mein

Lo Mein originated in China, where it was a simple noodle dish made with seasonal vegetables and meat. When Chinese immigrants brought it to the United States, it evolved into a richer, sauce-heavy dish that became a popular takeout favorite. Today, Chicken Lo Mein is a must-have on American-Chinese restaurant menus, loved for its balance of flavors and textures.

Why Homemade Chicken Lo Mein is Better Than Takeout

While ordering takeout is tempting, making Chicken Lo Mein at home is a total game-changer! Here’s why:

Healthier: Control the ingredients—no excessive oil, MSG, or sodium.
Customizable: Add your favorite proteins (shrimp, beef, tofu) and veggies.
Budget-Friendly: One homemade batch costs less than a single takeout order.
Fresher & Faster: Ready in 25 minutes—faster than waiting for delivery!

Now that you know why homemade Chicken Lo Mein is a must-try, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need!

Ingredients You Need for the Best Chicken Lo Mein

To make a flavorful and authentic Chicken Lo Mein, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The key to a great Lo Mein is using the right noodles, protein, fresh vegetables, and a rich, umami-packed sauce. Let’s break it down!

Noodles: What’s the Best Type for Lo Mein?

The heart of any Lo Mein recipe is the noodles! Traditional Lo Mein noodles are soft, chewy, and slightly thick, perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Here are your best options:

Lo Mein Noodles – Fresh or dried wheat noodles made specifically for Lo Mein.
Egg Noodles – Thin, yellow noodles that add a rich flavor.
Spaghetti (Substitute) – If you can’t find Lo Mein noodles, regular spaghetti or linguine works well. Just cook them until al dente so they don’t get mushy.

Protein: What Works Best?

Chicken is the most popular protein for Lo Mein because it’s lean, flavorful, and cooks quickly. But not all cuts are equal!

• Chicken Breast – Leaner and firmer, perfect for slicing into thin strips.
• Chicken Thighs – Juicier and more tender, adding extra flavor to the dish.
• Other Options – Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, tofu, or even pork if you want variety.

Vegetables: What to Add for the Best Flavor & Texture?

A great Lo Mein isn’t just about noodles—it’s packed with fresh, crunchy veggies to balance the dish. Here are some great choices:

Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness and crunch.
Carrots – Thinly sliced or julienned for color and texture.
Onions – Sautéed for extra flavor.
Cabbage – Adds a slight crunch and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Snow Peas, Mushrooms, or Broccoli – Optional, but great for variety!

The Secret to a Perfect Lo Mein Sauce

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Lo Mein

Making Chicken Lo Mein at home is super easy! Follow these simple steps to get that perfectly chewy texture, tender chicken, and bold, savory sauce.

1: Cook the Noodles

Perfect Lo Mein noodles are soft and chewy—not mushy! Here’s how to cook them just right:

Boil Water – Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
Cook Noodles – Add the noodles and cook until al dente (usually 3–4 minutes for fresh Lo Mein noodles or 6–7 minutes for dried ones).
Drain & Rinse – Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
Toss with Sesame Oil – Lightly coat the noodles with a teaspoon of sesame oil to keep them from clumping.

👉 Pro Tip: If using spaghetti as a substitute, undercook it by 1 minute to prevent it from becoming too soft.

2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Prepping your ingredients ahead of time makes cooking fast and effortless!

Slice the Chicken Thinly – Cut chicken breast or thighs into thin strips, about ¼-inch thick, for quick cooking.
Chop the Vegetables – Julienne carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage into thin strips so they cook evenly.
Mince Garlic & Ginger – Fresh garlic and ginger bring out the best flavors in the sauce.

Pro Tip: Slice chicken against the grain to keep it tender and juicy.

3: Stir-Fry the Chicken and Veggies

Time to fire up the wok (or a large skillet)! High heat is key to getting that classic restaurant-style flavor.

Heat the Pan – Add 1 tablespoon of oil (vegetable or sesame) to a hot wok or skillet.
Cook the Chicken – Stir-fry the sliced chicken for 3–4 minutes, until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies – In the same pan, add the chopped vegetables and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Return Chicken to the Pan – Add the cooked chicken back in and mix everything together.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to keep everything sizzling hot

4: Add the Noodles and Sauce

Now for the best part—bringing it all together with the sauce!

Pour in the Sauce – Add the pre-mixed Lo Mein sauce (soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger).
Toss in the Noodles – Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss everything until fully coated in sauce.
Stir-Fry for 2 More Minutes – Let the noodles soak up all the flavors, stirring continuously.
Serve Hot & Enjoy! – Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for the final touch.

Pro Tip: If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen them up.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Lo Mein

Want to take your Chicken Lo Mein to the next level? Here are some insider tips that’ll make your dish taste just like the best Chinese takeout (but even better, of course)!

Best Noodles for Lo Mein: Choosing the Right Texture

The noodles are the star of the dish, so getting the texture right is key. Here’s what you should look for:

Fresh Lo Mein Noodles – These are ideal for a chewy, soft texture. They’re typically available at Asian grocery stores and have the best flavor.
Egg Noodles – They’re tender and flavorful, adding richness to the dish. If you can’t find Lo Mein noodles, this is a great substitute.
Spaghetti (if needed) – In a pinch, regular spaghetti can work. But make sure to undercook it slightly so it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Pro Tip: Always rinse your noodles under cold water after cooking to stop them from continuing to cook and becoming mushy.

Secret to Restaurant-Style Sauce: Balancing Sweetness, Saltiness, and Umami

The key to a restaurant-quality sauce is balance—you want a perfect mix of salty, sweet, and savory. Here’s how to get it just right:

Soy Sauce – It’s salty and rich, but don’t overdo it! For a healthy option, use low-sodium soy sauce.
Oyster Sauce – This gives the dish deep umami flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Hoisin Sauce – A sweet and tangy addition that completes the flavor.
Adjust Sweetness & Saltiness – If your sauce is too salty, add a pinch of brown sugar or a little extra hoisin. If it’s too sweet, balance it with soy sauce or a splash of vinegar.

Pro Tip: Taste the sauce before adding it to the noodles and adjust the flavors to your liking. Every palate is different!

How to Prevent Soggy Lo Mein: The Trick to Keeping Noodles Firm

We’ve all been there—soggy, mushy noodles are a no-go! Here’s how to keep your Lo Mein noodles firm and perfect:

Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Follow the package instructions and under cook them by about 1 minute to keep them firm.
Toss with Oil – Once drained, toss your noodles with a little sesame oil to prevent them from sticking and to keep them glossy and firm.
High Heat Stir-Frying – Cook everything at high heat to avoid steaming the noodles and vegetables. Stir-fry them quickly so they stay crisp.

Pro Tip: If the noodles do get soggy, don’t worry! Toss them back in the wok with a bit more sauce and stir-fry over high heat for a minute or two to bring them back to life.

Adding Protein Variations: Shrimp, Beef, Tofu, and More

Chicken Lo Mein is delicious, but you can mix things up by swapping out the protein! Here are some great options:

Shrimp – Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until pink and tender. It adds a sweet, succulent flavor.
Beef – Thinly slice flank steak or sirloin for a rich, hearty taste. Stir-fry it until browned and crispy around the edges.
Tofu – For a vegetarian or vegan version, use extra-firm tofu. Press it to remove excess moisture, then pan-fry until crispy.

Pro Tip: Marinate your protein in a little bit of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for 10-15 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.

Serving and Storing Chicken Lo Mein

Once your Chicken Lo Mein is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy. And don’t forget, you can store leftovers to savor the dish later!

How to Serve: Best Toppings

The right toppings can elevate your Chicken Lo Mein to another level! Here are some classic choices to garnish your dish:

Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
Green Onions – Freshly chopped green onions add a burst of freshness and color.
Chili Flakes – If you like a little heat, top your dish with crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Cilantro – Fresh cilantro leaves can add a fragrant note and fresh contrast.

Pro Tip: You can mix and match these toppings depending on your taste preferences for a fun, personalized touch

What to Pair with Lo Mein: Perfect Side Dishes

Chicken Lo Mein pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Here are some classic options:

Egg Rolls – Crispy and savory, these are a perfect match for the soft noodles.
Dumplings – Whether steamed or fried, dumplings add a delicious bite alongside Lo Mein.
Hot & Sour Soup – A tangy and spicy soup is the perfect starter to complement your meal.
Spring Rolls – Light, fresh, and crunchy, these rolls add a balance to the richness of Lo Mein.

Pro Tip: Keep it simple with a side of stir-fried vegetables to add some extra fiber and balance out the flavors.

How to Store Leftovers: Refrigerating and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—Chicken Lo Mein can be enjoyed for days to come with the right storage and reheating methods.

Refrigerate – Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat – For the best results, reheat in a wok or skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen up the noodles. Stir-fry over medium heat until hot.
Microwave – If using a microwave, cover the container with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Pro Tip: Leftovers tend to soak up the sauce after sitting for a while, so feel free to add a little extra soy sauce or sesame oil when reheating to boost the flavor.

Chef’s Note

Your Easy Chicken Lo Mein Awaits!

Making Chicken Lo Mein at home is simpler than you might think—under 30 minutes and you can have a delicious, customizable meal that beats takeout every time! With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a flavorful dish packed with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and savory sauce.

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables and proteins you use. Whether you love bell peppers, carrots, or cabbage—or prefer swapping the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef—the options are endless!

So, what are you waiting for? Try it out, and let me know what your favorite version of Chicken Lo Mein looks like!

For high-quality chicken cuts, you can refer to The Chicken Council, which offers information on choosing the best cuts.