Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 2 cups snow peas
- 3 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Cook the noodles. Boil the lo mein noodles until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with a drizzle of oil so they do not stick.
- Make the sauce. Whisk the soy sauce, hoisin, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, cornstarch, and sugar in a small bowl until smooth.
- Sear the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Sear the chicken 4-5 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove to a plate.
- Sizzle the aromatics. Add the remaining oil, garlic, and ginger to the hot wok. Stir-fry 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Char the veggies. Add the bell pepper, carrots, and snow peas. Stir-fry 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender with a little char.
- Toss it all. Return the chicken and noodles to the wok, pour in the sauce, and toss 1-2 minutes until everything is glossy and coated. Shower with green onions and serve.
💡 Lo mein smarts
High heat is everything — a hot wok gives you that smoky takeout char. Slice the chicken against the grain and keep the slices thin so they stay tender. Do not overcook the noodles before tossing; they finish in the sauce. Swap in shrimp, beef, or extra veggies to make it your own.
Common questions
Can I use spaghetti instead of lo mein noodles?
Yes — spaghetti is the best substitute and what most home cooks have on hand. Cook it 1 minute shy of al dente so it finishes in the sauce.
How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?
Rinse them in cold water right after draining and toss with a little oil. Add them to the wok last so they only see heat for 1-2 minutes.
Can I make this ahead?
It is best fresh, but leftovers keep 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles.
Is hoisin sauce necessary?
It adds the sweet-savory takeout depth, but you can swap it for an extra tablespoon of soy sauce plus a teaspoon of sugar.
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