Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

why make this recipe

Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a beloved dish that combines the delightful flavors of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory noodles. This recipe is appealing because it is not only delicious but also offers a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and nutrients from the vegetables. It brings a taste of Asian cuisine into your home, and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The best part? You can customize it according to your taste! If you’re a fan of different kinds of vegetables, you can easily switch out the mixed veggies to suit your preference. The sweet and savory sauce, combined with the aromatic sesame oil, makes each bite enjoyable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for your family, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

how to make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Making Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is straightforward and enjoyable. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up this dish; just follow these simple steps. The best part about cooking at home is that you can taste and adjust the flavor as you go. With the right ingredients and a bit of timing, you will create a mouthwatering meal that rivals any restaurant.

Ingredients:

To prepare your 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 (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

These ingredients come together to form a tasty meal that not only satisfies hunger but also tickles the taste buds.

Directions:

Follow these simple steps to prepare the dish:

1. Cook the lo mein noodles: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions. Once done, drain them and set them aside.

2. Heat the skillet: In a large skillet or wok, heat the 3 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. The oil adds a nutty flavor that is essential for this dish.

3. Cook the chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the hot skillet. Cook it until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink in the middle. This step usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Cooking the chicken properly ensures it is tender and safe to eat.

4. Add garlic: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

5. Stir-fry the vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. This adds color and nutrition to the meal.

6. Make the sauce: While the chicken and veggies are cooking, take a small bowl and mix together 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of honey. This mixture will form a sweet-savory sauce that ties everything together.

7. Combine everything: Pour the soy sauce and honey mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir it well to ensure everything is coated in the sauce.

8. Add the noodles: Toss in the cooked lo mein noodles and mix everything thoroughly. Ensure the noodles are warmed through and mix well with the garlic, chicken, and veggies.

9. Season it up: Now, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds over the top for added flavor and crunch.

10. Garnish and serve: Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

how to serve Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein can serve as a satisfying main course. You can serve it directly from the skillet for a casual dining experience. For a more formal setting, scoop the dish into individual bowls. Serve hot to enjoy the flavors at their best. Pair it with extra soy sauce or a side of spring rolls for a complete Asian-themed meal. You can also enjoy it with a hot cup of green tea for a delightful dining experience.

For garnishing, sprinkle additional sesame seeds or fresh cilantro on top if desired. The dish can be enjoyed right away, but it also makes for great leftovers the next day.

how to store Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious. Allow the Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Adding a splash of soy sauce can help bring back the flavors if it seems a bit dry.

If you think you won’t finish it within that time frame, you can also freeze it. Store the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 2-3 months. To eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.

tips to make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

1. Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken breast makes a significant difference in flavor and texture.

2. Customize the veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables. Snap peas, bok choy, or mushrooms all work well and boost the dish’s nutritional value.

3. Adjust the sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences, you can add more or less honey to the sauce mixture. You can also use other sweeteners like maple syrup.

4. Don’t overcook the veggies: To keep vegetables vibrant and crisp, reduce the cooking time if you prefer them less cooked.

5. Double the sauce: If you enjoy saucier noodles, consider doubling the amount of sauce. Just increase the soy sauce and honey for a richer flavor.

6. Experiment with spices: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or enhance flavors with ginger for an extra kick.

variation

You can easily modify this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example:

• Vegetarian version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative. Ensure to press tofu to remove excess moisture for better frying.

• Gluten-Free option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles for those with gluten intolerance. There are several brands of gluten-free noodles available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this meal.

• Different proteins: Instead of chicken, you could use shrimp or beef. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the protein is cooked correctly.

• Spicy sesame chicken: Add some chili paste or sriracha to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick that complements the flavors well.

FAQs

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional, you can substitute other noodles like udon or even rice noodles. Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions for those specific noodles.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicier version, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha or chili oil to the sauce. Experiment with the heat level that is comfortable for you.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, sauce, and veggies in advance, and then cook the noodles just before serving. Store each component separately in the refrigerator and combine them right before you plan to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a fantastic meal prep option. You can portion the dish into containers for quick, easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What can I serve with Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein?

This dish pairs well with various sides like egg rolls, dumplings, or even a side salad. You can also serve it with some pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch that balances well with the flavors.

Understanding these aspects can enhance your cooking experience and help you enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a sure way to bring smiles to the table. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Print