If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, this garlic chicken lo mein is exactly what you need. It’s super easy to make, packed with garlic goodness, and drenched in an extra saucy, savory sauce that clings perfectly to every noodle. Whether you’re craving takeout or want to impress guests with a homemade Asian-inspired dish, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Garlic chicken lo mein is a comforting classic, and with this recipe, you can whip it up in less than 30 minutes. You’ll love how the tender chicken and fresh veggies blend seamlessly with the luscious sauce, making each bite full of bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Extra saucy, so every noodle is deliciously coated.
- Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or protein.
- Comforting, flavorful, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your super easy extra saucy garlic chicken lo mein. The sauce is what makes this dish special, so be sure to measure carefully.
- 8 ounces lo mein or spaghetti noodles
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red or yellow)
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
How to Make Super Easy Extra Saucy Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for 5–6 minutes until cooked through and slightly golden. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the shredded carrots and sliced bell peppers, stir-frying for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are just tender but still vibrant.
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chicken broth, and toasted sesame oil. Stir well to combine.
- Mix in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce is glossy and coats the chicken and veggies beautifully.
- Add the cooked noodles and sliced green onions to the pan. Toss everything together over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, ensuring noodles are fully coated in the extra saucy garlic mixture.
- Adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or pepper if desired, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds if you like.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic in jars.
- Don’t overcook the noodles; al dente texture holds up well in the sauce.
- Slice chicken thinly against the grain for tender bites.
- Customize with your favorite veggies like snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb more sauce as they sit, intensifying the flavor.
To reheat, warm the lo mein gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti, linguine, or even rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the noodle type to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe easy to make gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives, and make sure your noodles are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, swap the chicken for tofu or extra vegetables and replace oyster sauce with a vegetarian mushroom sauce or additional soy sauce. The dish will still be deliciously saucy.
How spicy is this garlic chicken lo mein?
This recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add spice by including chili flakes or hot sauce to suit your taste.
