Easy One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein: A Comforting Recipe!

Okay, friend, gather ’round the counter! Let’s talk about my absolute go-to for busy weeknights: One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein. Seriously, if I could only make one dish for the rest of my life, it might just be this. I remember the first time I tried to make something similar – it was a total disaster! The noodles were gummy, the chicken was dry, and the sauce? Well, let’s just say it tasted like something you’d find at the bottom of the fridge. Yikes! It was a humbling experience, but it sparked a mission to create a simplified lo mein recipe that even I couldn’t mess up. After countless trials and a little help from my mom’s old cookbooks, I finally nailed this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein, and boy, am I proud of it.

The aroma alone, when it’s simmering on the stove, is pure comfort. The savory scent of soy sauce mixes with the sweetness of the veggies, creating this irresistible invitation that always has the kids hovering around the kitchen, asking, “Is it ready YET, Mom?” It’s the kind of smell that instantly transforms a hectic evening into a cozy family dinner. Life gets crazy, and sometimes a gourmet meal is the last thing on my mind. That’s why this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein is my saving grace. It’s quick, it’s easy, and cleanup is a breeze – all thanks to the one-pan magic. It’s become such a regular on our table, I can practically make it in my sleep now. And honestly? It’s one of the few dishes my picky eaters will devour without complaint.

My goal is to make cooking feel less like a chore and more like a joyful experience, a way to nourish your loved ones and create lasting memories. I truly believe anyone can make delicious food at home, regardless of skill level. So, ditch the takeout menus, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! I promise you, this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein will become a weeknight staple in your house, too. Ready to get started?

What You’ll Need for This One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein

Alright, let’s gather our ingredients! Don’t worry, nothing too fancy here – just good, honest ingredients that come together to create something truly special. I always use fresh ginger for my One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein; the flavor is just so much brighter and more vibrant than the powdered stuff.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup sliced carrots
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 8 ounces lo mein noodles (fresh or dried)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (I prefer low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

When making One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein, you can often find great deals on chicken breasts at your local butcher shop. I like to buy in bulk and freeze them for later use. Speaking of freezing, I’ve also found that pre-chopped veggies can be a huge time-saver when you’re in a pinch. Look for them in the produce section – they’re usually a bit more expensive, but sometimes the convenience is worth it!

Here’s a One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein trick I learned from my grandma: marinate the chicken in a little soy sauce and sesame oil for about 30 minutes before cooking. It makes it extra tender and flavorful. It also really helps with making a quick lo mein recipe.

To save some money, I often grow my own green onions and herbs in a small container garden on my patio. It’s surprisingly easy, and it’s so rewarding to snip fresh herbs right before adding them to my One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein!

For leftover ingredients, I always store my ginger in the freezer. It lasts for months, and you can grate it directly from frozen – no need to peel it! I found this tip at Chicken Lo Mein (One Pan) – Momsdish and it’s been a lifesaver! This is one of my favorite hacks for making easy chicken lo mein. Now, let’s move on to the good stuff: the cooking!

Let’s Make This One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein Together

Okay, friend, let’s get cooking! Don’t be intimidated; this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein is seriously foolproof. I’m going to walk you through it step by step, just like I’m standing right there with you in your kitchen.

  1. Get Started: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, and chicken broth. Set aside. This is your flavor bomb!
  2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remember, even if it’s not perfectly browned, it’s okay! We’re going for taste here.
  3. Add Aromatics: Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Oh, the smell! This is when you know the One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein magic is about to happen.
  4. Veggies In! Add the bell pepper, carrots, and broccoli to the skillet and cook until slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes. Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies here – mushrooms, snap peas, even bok choy would be delicious.
  5. Noodle Time: Add the lo mein noodles to the skillet. If using dried noodles, cook them according to package directions before adding them to the pan. I’ve learned the hard way with One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein that undercooked noodles are a disaster! Make sure to fully cook them!
  6. Sauce it Up: Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together until well combined.
  7. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened and the noodles are heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Your One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein should smell like a delicious Asian-inspired dream!
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

In my kitchen, One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. While the One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein is cooking, I like to set the table and maybe even pour myself a glass of wine (don’t judge!). I sometimes check out articles like Gluten Free Lo Mein | Make a quick and easy dinner tonight to look for variations on this recipe.

Don’t worry if your One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein seems a little dry at first. The noodles will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits. If it seems too dry, just add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s so flexible. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Want it sweeter? Add a touch more brown sugar. Make it your own! This is an authentic chicken lo mein.

How I Love to Serve This One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein

Now for the best part – serving! My family loves this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein when I serve it with a side of steamed edamame. The bright green color and slightly salty flavor of the edamame complement the savory noodles perfectly. Plus, it adds a little extra protein and fiber to the meal.

This One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a casual dinner party. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to double or triple the recipe to feed a larger group. My friends always ask for this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein recipe, and I’m always happy to share it. It is, without a doubt, a simplified lo mein recipe that everyone can enjoy.

For presentation, I like to pile the noodles high in a serving bowl and garnish with plenty of sesame seeds and chopped green onions. A few sprigs of cilantro also add a nice pop of color and freshness.

If you have extra One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein, it’s even better the next day! The flavors have had a chance to meld together, and the noodles are even more tender. I often pack it for lunch or reheat it for a quick and easy dinner. Sometimes I’ll serve it with a bowl of hot and sour soup, or a side of crispy spring rolls if I’m feeling fancy. One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein can be an easy chicken noodle stir fry.

For a seasonal twist, try adding some roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes in the fall. In the summer, I like to add grilled corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and smokiness. You could even make it a teriyaki chicken lo mein. I’m also a huge fan of Authentic Chicken Lo Mein (VIDEO) – CJ Eats Recipes.

Your One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein Questions Answered

Okay, let’s tackle some common questions about this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein. I’ve gotten these from blog readers and even from my own family, so don’t be shy!

Q: Can I use a different type of noodle?

A: Absolutely! Lo mein noodles are traditional, but you can easily substitute spaghetti, linguine, or even udon noodles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You know what I do when my One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein has different types of noodles? I make sure they are properly cooked so that they won’t ruin the dish.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?

A: Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add some extra vegetables, such as tofu, mushrooms, or snow peas. To maintain the umami flavor, you can also add a tablespoon of vegetarian oyster sauce. My family likes this option, too!

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the recipe as directed. I actually sometimes get this question about my Turmeric Chicken Soup, which you can find here: Turmeric Chicken Soup

Q: My sauce is too thin. What do I do?

A: No problem! Simply whisk together a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

Q: My noodles are sticking together. How can I prevent this?

A: Make sure to cook the noodles al dente and toss them with a little sesame oil after draining. This will help prevent them from sticking together. Sometimes, I’ll even add a little bit of sesame oil to them before cooking.

Q: Can I freeze this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein?

A: I don’t recommend freezing the finished dish, as the noodles can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables separately. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them and add them to freshly cooked noodles and sauce.

Q: Can I use different proteins, like shrimp or beef?

A: Absolutely! Shrimp and beef both work great in this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. I’ve learned the hard way with One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein that some proteins can cook faster than others, so make sure you keep an eye on it.

My Final Thoughts on This One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein

This One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein recipe is more than just a quick and easy meal; it’s a symbol of family, comfort, and the joy of sharing good food with the people you love. It’s a dish that has evolved over time, adapting to my family’s tastes and preferences, and it continues to be a staple on our table week after week. It’s also a dish that is close to my Mushroom Parmesan Chicken Soup recipe. You can find it here: Mushroom Parmesan Chicken Soup

Finished One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein dish

Here are my One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein Pro Tips:

  • Don’t overcook the noodles! Mushy noodles are the enemy of delicious lo mein.
  • Adjust the sauce to your liking. Feel free to add more or less soy sauce, oyster sauce, or brown sugar to suit your taste.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

Some variations I’ve tried with my family include a spicy One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein with red pepper flakes, a sweeter version with honey instead of brown sugar, and a veggie-packed One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein with tons of different vegetables. My son loves the spicy version, while my daughter prefers the sweeter one. Of course, they both love the original, too! It’s fun to create a teriyaki chicken lo mein. I also like my spicy buffalo chicken mac and cheese! Check it out here: spicy buffalo chicken mac and cheese

I hope you’ll try this One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein recipe and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create a dish that your family will love. Remember, cooking should be fun, so relax, enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results. I’m sure this simplified lo mein recipe will be a hit in your household. Give my easy chicken lo mein a try today!

\n   \n Print

One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein

This One-Pan Chicken Lo Mein is a quick and easy weeknight meal with tender chicken, stir-fried vegetables, and flavorful noodles, all cooked together in one pan for minimal cleanup! Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

  • Author: Liliana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 8 ounces lo mein noodles, cooked according to package directions
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • Green onions, chopped, for garnish
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and cornstarch. Toss to coat and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and chicken broth.
  5. Add the cooked lo mein noodles and the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the noodles and chicken. Toss to combine and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!