Chicken Lo Mein with Fresh Veggies: A Flavorful Delight
Origins
Chicken Lo Mein is a popular dish that originates from Chinese cuisine. It is believed to have originated in the Guangdong province of China, known for its flavorful and diverse culinary traditions. Lo Mein, which means “tossed noodles” in Cantonese, is a stir-fried noodle dish that has gained popularity worldwide for its delicious combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce.
Benefits Summary
This Chicken Lo Mein recipe offers a balanced and nutritious meal option. It incorporates lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables, and complex carbohydrates from the noodles. By using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles, you can tailor the dish to suit different dietary needs. Additionally, stir-frying the ingredients helps retain their nutritional value, making this dish a wholesome choice for a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz chicken breast, thinly sliced
– 8 oz lo mein noodles (whole wheat or gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snap peas
– 1 medium carrot, julienned
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Preparation:
1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the broccoli florets, snap peas, julienned carrot, and sliced red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over the ingredients. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
9. Serve the Chicken Lo Mein hot and enjoy the flavorful combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and savory sauce.
Pairing Suggestions:
Chicken Lo Mein pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice for a heartier meal. For added freshness, serve with a side of cucumber salad or a bowl of hot and sour soup.
Nutritional Values:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Shopping List:
| Ingredient | Quantity/Size |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 8 oz |
| Lo mein noodles | 8 oz |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 tablespoon |
| Broccoli florets | 1 cup |
| Snap peas | 1 cup |
| Carrot | 1 medium |
| Red bell pepper | 1/2 cup |
| Low-sodium soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh cilantro | For garnish |
Special Tip:
To add a seasonal twist to this recipe, you can incorporate seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or snow peas when they are available. This will enhance the freshness and flavor of the dish.
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of this Chicken Lo Mein with Fresh Veggies, a delightful and nutritious lunch option. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce, all tossed with noodles for a satisfying meal. With its quick and easy preparation, you can enjoy a taste of Chinese cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
