Indulge in tender chicken lo mein from your crock pot: a perfect weeknight dinner treat!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of chicken lo mein, effortlessly prepared in the comfort of your crock pot. This hearty and flavorful dish is a culinary masterpiece that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 (12-ounce) package lo mein noodles
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 (15-ounce) can black bean sauce
• 1 (8-ounce) can water chestnuts, drained and sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add the Noodles: Once the chicken is done, add the lo mein noodles to the crock pot.
5. Stir in the Sauce: Pour the black bean sauce over the noodles and chicken.
6. Add Vegetables: Stir in the water chestnuts, green onions, and cilantro.
7. Cook the Noodles: Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes or until the noodles are tender.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• If you don’t have black bean sauce, you can substitute hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce.
• Add other vegetables to your lo mein, such as carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas.
• Serve the lo mein with additional soy sauce, hot mustard, or Sriracha for extra flavor.

Variations

• Vegetable Lo Mein: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, and mushrooms.
• Seafood Lo Mein: Add shrimp, scallops, or crab to the dish for a seafood twist.
• Spicy Lo Mein: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Benefits of Using a Crock Pot

• Convenience: Simply prepare the ingredients and let the crock pot do the work.
• Time-Saving: You can cook the lo mein while you’re at work or running errands.
• Flavorful Cooking: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and develop.
• Healthy Option: You can control the ingredients and avoid unhealthy additives.

“Wrap-Up”

Indulge in the culinary delight of chicken lo mein, effortlessly prepared in the comfort of your crock pot. This hearty and flavorful dish is a testament to the convenience and versatility of slow cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the lo mein ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use a different type of noodles?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as ramen noodles or udon noodles.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze the lo mein?
Yes, you can freeze the lo mein for up to 2 months.