Revolutionize your weeknight dinners with this irresistible chicken lo mein recipe (no oyster sauce required)

Chicken lo mein, a beloved Chinese noodle dish, is renowned for its tantalizing blend of flavors. However, for those with dietary restrictions or allergies, the traditional use of oyster sauce can pose a challenge. This comprehensive guide presents an exceptional chicken lo mein recipe that eliminates oyster sauce while preserving the dish’s authentic taste.

Ingredients

Noodles:

• 12 ounces dried lo mein noodles

Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce (or additional hoisin sauce)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Vegetables:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1/2 cup bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with the soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
5. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Combine the ingredients: Add the noodles, chicken, and sauce to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
• Experiment with different vegetables, such as snap peas, baby corn, or bok choy.
• If you don’t have dark soy sauce, substitute with additional hoisin sauce.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice or fortune cookies.

Variations

• Vegetarian Lo Mein: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as tofu or mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free Lo Mein: Use gluten-free noodles, such as rice noodles or zucchini noodles.
• Spicy Lo Mein: Add a pinch of chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce for a kick.

Health Benefits

This chicken lo mein recipe is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:

• Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Fiber: Noodles and vegetables provide fiber, which promotes digestive health and satiety.
• Antioxidants: Vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage.
• Low in Fat: This recipe is low in fat, making it a healthier choice than traditional lo mein.

The Final Verdict

This chicken lo mein recipe without oyster sauce is a culinary triumph that satisfies the taste buds without compromising dietary needs. Its rich flavors, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables make it a perfect meal for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with other types, such as ramen noodles or udon noodles.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the lo mein and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

3. Is there a vegan alternative to chicken?
Yes, you can use tofu, tempeh, or seitan as a vegan alternative to chicken.