Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

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Why Make This Recipe

Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen. This dish not only offers a delightful taste but is also packed with nutrients from the mixed vegetables. Making this recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic takeout favorite at home. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you prefer a milder flavor or a spicier kick, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. The combination of juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and chewy lo mein noodles tossed in a sweet and savory sesame sauce is sure to please anyone at the dinner table.

How to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
8 oz lo mein noodles
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
3 tbsp sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish

Directions:

Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
In a large pan or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced chicken to the pan. Sauté the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to add the vegetables. Toss in the mixed vegetables along with the minced garlic. Stir-fry everything together until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir everything to ensure that the chicken and vegetables are well coated with the sauce.
Next, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the pan. Toss them with the chicken and vegetable mixture until everything is combined and heated through.
Finally, serve the dish hot. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Serving Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is straightforward. You can present the dish in a large serving bowl for family-style dining or plate it for individual servings. Consider adding additional garnishes like sesame seeds or even spicy chili flakes for those who like a bit of heat. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed rice or with some egg rolls for a complete meal.

To enhance the dining experience, you might also serve some soy sauce or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra flavor. Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to entertaining guests.

How to Store Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store the Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water or additional sesame oil to help revive the noodles and prevent them from drying out. Ensure the mixture is heated evenly throughout.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. However, keep in mind that the texture of the noodles and vegetables may change once thawed and reheated.

Tips to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Chicken Substitution: If you prefer, you can swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just remember to adjust the cooking times based on the protein you choose.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to use any combination of vegetables that you like. Snow peas, snap peas, and bok choy are excellent additions that enhance the flavor and texture.
Homemade Sauce: For a unique touch, you can create your own sauce by experimenting with additional ingredients like ginger, rice vinegar, or hoisin sauce.
Noodle Options: If lo mein noodles are not available, you can substitute them with spaghetti or udon noodles. The cooking method will remain the same.
Add More Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

Variation

One delicious variation of this dish is to make a Sesame Chicken Stir-fry. Instead of lo mein noodles, you can serve the sesame chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. This option is lighter while maintaining the wonderful flavors of the classic dish.

Another fun twist is to make Sesame Chicken and Veggie Lettuce Wraps. Instead of serving everything with noodles, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the filling mixture. This creates a fun, interactive way to enjoy the meal, especially for parties or gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use other types of oil instead of sesame oil?

Yes, while sesame oil adds a distinct flavor, you can use other oils such as vegetable oil or coconut oil in a pinch. However, it’s best to add a small amount of sesame oil later for that unique taste.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total time to prepare and cook Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick meal for busy weeknights.

Is this dish healthy?

Yes, this dish can be healthy, especially when you add plenty of vegetables and use lean chicken breast. You can also control the amount of oil and sugar in the sauce to make it even healthier.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

What if I have a gluten allergy?

If you have a gluten allergy, opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari when making the sauce. Additionally, be sure to check the noodle packaging to ensure they are gluten-free. There are some excellent gluten-free noodle options available in stores nowadays.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Definitely! Fresh vegetables will add a vibrant flavor and crunch to the dish. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as fresh vegetables may require a slightly shorter cook time to achieve that tender-crisp texture.

By following this simple recipe for Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. With easy-to-follow directions and lots of room for customization, it’s a great choice for any home chef. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress your guests, this dish is sure to be a hit!