There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of lo mein, isn’t there? It takes me right back to those cozy family dinners when the aroma of garlic and soy sauce filled the kitchen and everyone gathered around the table, eager for seconds. But here’s the best part: you don’t need fancy Asian noodles to enjoy this classic dish. Using simple spaghetti noodles makes this Chicken Lo Mein recipe not only quick but also super accessible for any home cook. Plus, it’s packed with vibrant veggies and tender chicken, all swimming in a savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
If you’re looking for a memorable, fuss-free meal that comes together in no time and tastes like you ordered takeout, this recipe is your new best friend.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Lo Mein (with Spaghetti Noodles)
- Fast: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Easy: Uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Giftable: Makes a great meal to share with friends or bring to potlucks.
- Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves the savory, saucy goodness of lo mein.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty Chicken Lo Mein:
- Spaghetti noodles: An easy pantry swap for traditional lo mein noodles.
- Chicken thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy, flavorful meat.
- Minced garlic: Adds that essential aromatic punch.
- Tri-color coleslaw mix: A colorful and crunchy veggie medley that softens just right.
- Dark soy sauce & regular soy sauce: Together they create a rich, balanced salty flavor.
- Oyster sauce & hoisin sauce: For that classic, slightly sweet depth.
- Brown sugar: Just a touch to balance the salty and savory notes.
- Sesame oil: Brings a toasty, nutty aroma that makes the dish sing.
- Chicken broth: Helps make a saucy coating that’s not too thick or thin.
- Cooking oil: For sautéing the chicken and veggies.
How to Make Chicken Lo Mein (with Spaghetti Noodles)
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for a bowl of chicken lo mein that’s sure to become a staple:
- Cook the noodles: Boil the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set them aside. I like to toss them lightly with a bit of oil to keep them from sticking.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a splash of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken thigh pieces and cook until they’re fully cooked through and lightly browned. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes depending on the size of your pieces.
- Add garlic and veggies: Toss in the minced garlic and the tri-color coleslaw mix. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the veggies soften just a bit but still have a nice crunch.
- Mix your sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the dark soy sauce, regular soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chicken broth. This combo is the secret to that bold, restaurant-style flavor.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked spaghetti noodles and the sauce mixture to the pan. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so the noodles and chicken get evenly coated with the sauce.
- Simmer to perfection: Let the whole thing simmer together for a few minutes. This lets the noodles soak up all those beautiful flavors.
- Serve hot: Dish it out right away, and enjoy that perfect balance of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and saucy noodles.
Substitutions & Additions
Want to switch things up or add a personal touch? Here are some fun ideas:
- Noodles: Swap spaghetti for linguine or even egg noodles if you have them on hand.
- Protein: Try chicken breasts, shrimp, or tofu for a different spin.
- Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
- Heat: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha if you like a little kick.
- Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions add a lovely finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to not overcook the coleslaw mix—it should be tender but still crisp for the best texture.
- If your noodles stick together, give them a quick rinse under warm water before adding to the pan.
- Prepare your sauce ingredients ahead of time—this little step makes cooking feel seamless and stress-free.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat, but breasts work fine if that’s what you have.
How to Store Chicken Lo Mein (with Spaghetti Noodles)
Got leftovers? No problem! Store your Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend warming it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep those noodles from drying out. This dish also freezes well if you want to prep meals ahead of time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! Egg noodles, linguine, or even ramen noodles can work great. Just cook them according to their package directions.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or extra veggies and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also use mushroom-based oyster sauce for a vegetarian option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You sure can. Cook the noodles and chicken separately, then combine with the sauce and veggies just before serving for the freshest taste.
If you love simple, comforting meals like this, you might also enjoy my guide on easy Hawaiian teriyaki chicken or the super flavorful spicy jalapeno chicken stir fry. And for a sweet finish after dinner, don’t miss the amazing no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake—it’s a breeze and absolutely delicious!
Thanks for cooking along with me today! If you try this Chicken Lo Mein recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out.
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Deliciously Easy Chicken Lo Mein with Spaghetti Noodles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Boil spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss lightly with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Step 2: Heat cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken thigh pieces and cook 6–8 minutes, until fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Step 3: Add minced garlic and tri-color coleslaw mix to the pan. Stir and cook a few minutes until veggies soften but remain slightly crunchy.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together dark soy sauce, regular soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chicken broth.
- Step 5: Add cooked noodles and sauce mixture to the pan. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat noodles and chicken evenly.
- Step 6: Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld and noodles to soak up the sauce.
- Step 7: Serve hot immediately, enjoying the perfect balance of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and savory saucy noodles.