Easy and flavorful: the best chicken lo mein recipe you’ll ever make (with mirin magic)

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of this delectable chicken lo mein recipe, where the rich umami of mirin harmonizes perfectly with tender chicken and savory vegetables. This dish is a symphony of textures, aromas, and tastes that will transport you to the bustling streets of Asia.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 package (12 ounces) lo mein noodles
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set aside.

2. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the carrots, celery, green onions, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Add the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes more.

5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of water.

6. Combine Ingredients: Add the noodles to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the noodles are heated through.

7. Serve: Garnish with additional green onions and serve immediately.

Tips:

• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a mixture of equal parts dry sherry and sugar.
• To make the dish vegetarian, replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu.
• Serve with a side of steamed rice or a fresh green salad.

Variations:

• Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
• Use different types of noodles, such as soba or udon.
• Top with a fried egg for an extra layer of richness.

Health Benefits:

• Chicken lo mein is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.
• The vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Mirin contains amino acids that are beneficial for heart health.

Conclusion:

This chicken lo mein recipe with mirin is a culinary masterpiece that combines the best of Asian flavors. Its tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and flavorful sauce will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Asia.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply add it to the skillet with the vegetables and heat through.

Q: What is a good substitute for mirin?
A: A mixture of equal parts dry sherry and sugar can be used as a substitute for mirin.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Simply prepare the chicken and vegetables and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and vegetables and combine them with the noodles and sauce.