Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

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Why Make This Recipe

Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful noodles, all tossed in a shiny, delicious sauce. This dish brings the essence of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

The recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to enjoy flavorful Asian-inspired food at home. With its rich flavors and appealing presentation, it can impress family and friends alike. Moreover, this dish is versatile; you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. It’s comforting, satisfying, and provides a wonderful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

How to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Making Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is straightforward. It requires minimal cooking skills and just a few steps to follow, making it perfect for everyone, from beginners to experienced cooks. Once you gather all the ingredients, you can have this scrumptious dish ready in no time.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious meal, you will need the following ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
4 oz lo mein noodles
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
3 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
Sesame seeds for garnish
Green onions for garnish

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein:

Prepare the Noodles: Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside. This usually involves boiling them in water for a few minutes until they become soft.
Cook the Chicken: In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables and Garlic: Next, add your mixed vegetables and minced garlic into the pan. Stir everything together and sauté until the vegetables are tender. This part usually takes around 3-5 minutes, depending on how tender you like your vegetables.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and water. Mix them well until smooth. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the pan. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Combine with Noodles: Now add the cooked lo mein noodles to the chicken and vegetable mixture. Use tongs to toss everything together until the noodles are well coated in the sauce and mixed evenly with the chicken and vegetables.
Serve and Garnish: Finally, serve your hot Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein on plates. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

This dish is best served hot and fresh. You can place it straight on the dinner table and allow everyone to help themselves. For a lovely presentation, consider serving it in large bowls or on individual plates.

To enhance the meal, you can also serve it with sides like egg rolls, spring rolls, or a simple side salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette. Pairing it with a nice tea, such as green tea or jasmine tea, can elevate the experience and complement the flavors in the dish.

How to Store Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

If you have leftovers, that’s great! Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein stores well. Here’s how to properly store it:

Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing it.
Use Airtight Containers: Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent any absorption of smells from other foods in the fridge.
Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. It will be good for about 3-4 days.
Reheat Before Serving: When you are ready to enjoy the leftover dish, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s heated through. If needed, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the noodles as they may stiffen in the fridge.

Tips to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients whenever possible. Fresh vegetables add color and crunch to the dish.
Cooking Order: Cook the chicken first, then add the vegetables. This helps ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and the vegetables retain their vibrant color and crunch.
Adjusting the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water. If you like it sweeter, put in a little extra honey.
Noodle Choices: Lo mein noodles are traditional, but you can also use other types of noodles, such as chow mein or even rice noodles, depending on your preference.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the sauce.
Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, toss in some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts just before serving.

Variation

Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might consider:

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. Ensure to marinate them well to absorb flavors.
Seafood Option: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a seafood variation. Cook the seafood quickly, as it cooks faster than chicken.
Different Vegetables: If you have other vegetables on hand, feel free to add broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms. The dish is very flexible when it comes to the vegetables you want to include.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time but it’s best to cook the noodles just before serving to keep them fresh. You can also make the sauce in advance and store it properly.
Can I freeze Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein?
- While it is possible to freeze it, the texture may change once thawed. It’s best to consume it within a few days of preparation for optimal flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein?
- This dish pairs well with egg rolls, spring rolls, hot and sour soup, or a simple green salad. For beverages, consider serving it with tea or Asian-inspired cocktails.

Making Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a great way to enjoy a tasty, homemade meal. With simple steps, fresh ingredients, and a dash of creativity, you can whip up this classic dish to share with your loved ones.