Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Why Make This Recipe

Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory noodles. This recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying. If you are looking for a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love, this is the perfect choice. It’s packed with flavor, textures, and colors, making it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it is an excellent way to utilize seasonal vegetables and enjoy a taste of Asian cuisine right in your kitchen.

Preparing this dish is a breeze and can often be completed in under 30 minutes. That makes it an ideal weeknight dinner when time is limited. It is also perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. The balance of protein from chicken, carbohydrates from noodles, and nutrients from vegetables makes it a wholesome meal.

Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it by adding different types of proteins, swapping vegetables, or even adjusting the sauce to suit your taste. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or simply want a comforting weeknight meal, Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein will deliver a satisfying dining experience.

How to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Creating Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein at home is simple. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

To make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 4 oz lo mein noodles
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Green onions for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Noodles: Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. This usually involves boiling water and cooking the noodles for a few minutes until tender. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

2. Cook the Chicken: In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken. It should sizzle as it hits the pan. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure all sides cook evenly.

3. Add Vegetables and Garlic: After the chicken is cooked, add the mixed vegetables and minced garlic to the pan. Stir everything together and sauté the mixture until the vegetables are tender, about 3-5 minutes. The garlic will infuse the vegetables and chicken with a delicious aroma.

4. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, take a small bowl and mix together the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and water until smooth. This mixture will create a sticky and flavorful sauce for your dish. Once mixed, pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the pan. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Combine with Noodles: Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the chicken and vegetable mixture. Use tongs or a spatula to gently toss everything together. Make sure that the noodles are well coated with the sauce and mixed evenly with the chicken and vegetables.

6. Serve and Garnish: Once everything is well combined, it’s time to serve the dish. Plate the Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein while it’s hot. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation and added flavor.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Serving Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is as simple as plating it up and adding your garnishes. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed dumplings or a fresh green salad. This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking so that the flavors and textures are at their best.

When plating, make sure to distribute the chicken, vegetables, and noodles evenly. This not only looks appealing but also ensures that everyone gets a little of everything. The garnishes, sesame seeds, and green onions, add a nice touch, providing a sprinkle of crunch and brightness to the dish.

If you’re hosting a dinner, consider serving this dish family-style in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves. This promotes sharing and makes for a lovely, communal dining experience.

How to Store Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

If you have leftovers, storing Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is straightforward.

1. Cooling Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps to prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make the food soggy.

2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftover dish into airtight containers. You want to keep it sealed to maintain freshness.

3. Refrigerate: Place the containers in the refrigerator. The leftovers can be stored for up to 3-4 days. If you don’t think you will eat it within that timeframe, consider freezing it.

4. Freezing Tips: If you decide to freeze, it’s best to separate the chicken and vegetables from the noodles. The noodles may become mushy when thawed and reheated. Store each component in a separate container and use them together once thawed.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or a touch of sesame oil if the dish appears dry.

Tips to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

• Marinate the Chicken: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken with soy sauce and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Choose Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas are excellent choices, but feel free to mix in whatever you have on hand.

• Noodle Alternatives: While lo mein noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with other types of noodles such as chow mein noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch.

• Adding Heat: If you like a little spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce mixture for some heat.

• Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Variation

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations of Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein:

• Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, tofu, or beef. Just adjust cooking times as necessary. Shrimp cooks quickly, while beef may need additional time depending on the cut.

• Different Noodles: Feel free to experiment with different noodles like rice noodles or udon noodles for a different texture.

• Vegetable Variety: Change up the mixed vegetables to suit your preference. Broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas all work wonderfully in this dish.

• Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, toss in some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts right before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, using frozen mixed vegetables is a great option! They are quick to prepare and can save time in your cooking process. Just make sure not to overcook them when adding to the dish.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with tofu and ensure that your soy sauce is vegetarian-friendly. You can also increase the amount of vegetables for a heartier meal.

3. What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick while cooking, you can easily thin it out by adding a little bit of water or broth. Just add a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

4. How do I make sure the chicken stays tender?
To keep chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Once it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center, remove it from heat. Marinating beforehand and using fresh chicken also helps in retaining tenderness.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and cook the noodles right before serving. Mix everything together, heat, and enjoy!

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a fantastic homemade meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the flavors of Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein anytime you like, all from the comfort of your home!

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