Name: Garlic Chicken Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 oz lo mein noodles; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table, Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is your next dinner winner. With juicy chicken, springy noodles, and a garlicky sauce that clings to every bite, this takeout-inspired classic is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Did you know that Lo Mein, which translates to ‘tossed noodles’, actually finds its roots in ancient Chinese street markets? It’s a dish designed for speedy satisfaction, and even after centuries, its popularity hasn’t waned.

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein stands out because it’s both luxurious and simple—no need to fuss or overthink, especially when time is short. My family requests this nearly as much as the Reader-Favorite Sesame Beef Stir Fry on the blog. Trust me, if you love quick, crowd-pleasing meals packed with bold flavors, you’ll want to save this recipe! Get your skillet ready and prepare to fall in love with weeknight dinners again.

What is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?

Let’s have some fun: why “Garlic Chicken Lo Mein”? Is there a law somewhere that declares garlic makes chicken extra irresistible? Maybe not, but I’m convinced it’s the golden rule for comfort food. Lo Mein literally means ‘tossed noodles,’ and when you toss in juicy bites of chicken with plenty of garlicky goodness, you’ve got a recipe that’s hard to beat. I always say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and this dish proves it every time. Why not become the family favorite chef tonight? Try this recipe and watch everyone dig in!

Why You’ll Love This

The star of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is its deeply savory sauce and crisp-tender veggies tossed with tender chicken and noodles—each bite is a flavorful adventure. Making this dish at home is not only a huge money saver compared to takeout, but it also lets you control the quality of ingredients and pile on extra veggies or lean proteins to suit your taste. The “secret weapon” here is the garlicky sauce with hits of soy, oyster, and hoisin—super robust, fast to whip up, and it’ll leave your kitchen smelling better than any restaurant. If you loved the Chicken Teriyaki Rice Bowl on the blog, this dish is your next must-try. Dive in and bring some flavor-packed happiness right to your table!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is the midweek hero that comes together in just 30 minutes! With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe keeps things stress-free. The magic happens with the quick-cooked chicken and a glossy sauce, all tossed together with noodles and fresh, colorful vegetables. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll be delighted by how easy, tasty, and satisfying this dish is.

Ingredients

8 oz lo mein noodles
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Step-by-Step

Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and stir-fry just until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they are bright and just tender.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the drained noodles.
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together so the noodles and chicken are coated in the sauce and everything is well-mixed.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with plenty of sliced green onions.

What to Serve Garlic Chicken Lo Mein With

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein truly shines as a main course but pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with steamed dumplings or crunchy vegetable spring rolls for an authentic takeout experience. For lighter fare, accompany it with a tangy Asian slaw or a bowl of hot-and-sour soup. Drinks like iced green tea or a citrus mocktail balance the rich, savory flavors and round out the meal perfectly.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Substitute the chicken for shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu for a different spin—just adjust the cooking time as needed for your chosen protein.
Use fresh, pre-cut stir fry veggies from the grocery store to cut down on prep time or use up any odds and ends in your fridge.
Don’t overcook the noodles; they should be just al dente so they hold up when tossed in the sauce.
Avoid crowding the pan when stir-frying the chicken to ensure it browns instead of steaming.
For an extra punch, add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat lovers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Garlic Chicken Lo Mein stores beautifully! Allow it to cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each until hot. To reheat on the stovetop, simply add a tablespoon of water, cover, and heat over medium-low until steaming. If you’d like to freeze leftovers, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle for Garlic Chicken Lo Mein?
Yes! While traditional lo mein noodles are ideal, spaghetti, linguine, or even rice noodles can be used in a pinch. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Is Garlic Chicken Lo Mein gluten-free?
Not by default—standard soy sauce, oyster, and hoisin sauces contain gluten. Use gluten-free versions to adapt the recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats well and can be made up to a day in advance for maximum flavor and convenience.

What vegetables work best in Lo Mein?
Carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli are classic, but snap peas, mushrooms, and baby corn are all excellent additions or substitutions.

How can I make this recipe spicier?
Stir in chili garlic sauce or add a sliced chili pepper with the garlic for a fiery kick.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein is everything you love about takeout—savory, garlicky, and bursting with flavor—all made right in your kitchen in just half an hour. With easy steps, customizable ingredients, and budget-friendly benefits, it’s a recipe destined to become a staple in your family’s meal rotation. Ready to skip the takeout menu and try something new and delicious? Give this recipe a go and discover just how simple and satisfying home-cooked Chinese food can be. Happy cooking!