Chicken Lo Mein Most Authentic Recipe

Published Oct 31, 2024

Authentic Chicken Lo Mein Recipe

Lo mein is a popular noodle dish in Hong Kong where you boil and drain the noodles and then stir them into a savory sauce. Lo (捞) means to scoop up and mix, and mein (面) means noodles; in Cantonese, it refers to scooping up cooked noodles and mixing them with the sauce. This is my take on chicken lo mein, with silky smooth and tender chicken breast pieces, bok choy, carrots, and fresh shiitake mushrooms in a savory and authentic sauce. This chicken lo mein recipe is both healthy and super easy; it literally takes only 20 minutes from prep to dinner table. Imagine every strand of noodles coated in a savory and tasty sauce—this homemade lo mein is definitely much better than Chinese takeout! Don’t like chicken, you can make Vegetable Lo Mein or Shrimp Lo Mein.

Chicken Lo Mein Sauce

Traditionally, in Hong Kong, lo mein sauce is made from a stock (chicken or pork bone stock) and seasonings such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. This savory blend creates a rich and umami-packed flavor that clings to every strand of noodle, making it a standout dish. First, cook the sauce. Then, add the lo mein noodles to the sauce. That’s why lo mein is sometimes referred to as “stirred noodles.”

Difference Between Lo Mein And Chow Mein

When it comes to the difference between lo mein and chow mein, it’s all about how they’re made and their texture. Lo mein is mixed with the sauce without stir-frying, making it saucier and a bit more “wet.” The noodles have a smoother, silkier texture, making the dish irresistibly slurpable. On the other hand, chow mein is stir-fried, so the noodles are dry and have a firmer bite; it’s also greasier.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic flavor. You get all a Chinese restaurant quality lo mein in just 5 quick steps. Tasty sauce. The sauce is made from chicken stock, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil coats every noodle, making each bite savory and delicious. Fresh and healthy. With fresh chicken and veggies, it’s not just yummy—it’s also nutritious as a complete meal. Better than takeout. Satisfy your cravings with homemade goodness that tastes fresher, lighter, and even better than your neighborhood Chinese takeout!

Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients

Lo mein noodles – The heart of the dish. You can also use Chinese egg noodles, spaghetti or angel hair if you cannot find lo mein noodles in your grocery store. Chicken – I used boneless chicken breast, but you can also use chicken dark meat. Cornstarch – Coats the chicken, keeping it smooth and juicy, just like Chinese restaurants! Oil Garlic Bok choy Mushroom – fresh shiitake mushrooms lend a pleasant earthy note to the dish. Carrot Oyster sauce – The main flavor booster, adding a deep, savory umami taste that’s classic to lo mein. Soy sauce Dark soy sauce Chicken broth Sesame oil White pepper Sugar

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients.

Helpful Tips For Home Cooks

Don’t skip marinating the chicken in cornstarch—it really keeps the chicken tender and silky smooth! Cook on high heat to get that nice char on the chicken and keep your veggies crispy. Just remember to keep everything moving in the pan! If you’re making a lot, consider cooking in batches. This makes sure every single serving is perfectly cooked, and all ingredients turn out nice and crunchy.

What To Serve With This Recipe

For a wholesome Chinese meal and easy weeknight dinner, I recommend the following recipes. I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please leave a comment and consider giving it a 5-star rating. For more easy and delicious recipes, explore my Recipe Index, and stay updated by subscribing to my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for new updates.