Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Why Make This Recipe

Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. With crispy chicken coated in a savory sesame sauce and tossed with colorful vegetables and tender lo mein noodles, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying. Plus, it requires simple ingredients that you can find in most grocery stores, making it accessible for everyone. You can create a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle and expense of dining out.

Another great reason to make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is its versatility. You can customize it with different vegetables or even add tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a different twist. This dish appeals to everyone at the table, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. The combination of sweet and savory flavors alongside the texture of tender noodles creates a meal that is hard to resist.

How to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Creating this tasty dish involves a few simple steps that will have you enjoying your meal in no time. The secret to a successful Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein lies in the balance of flavors and ensuring that everything is cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 8 oz lo mein noodles
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 3 tbsp sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Directions

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

1. Cook the Noodles: Begin by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once they are done, drain them and set aside.

2. Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Be careful not to let it smoke, as this can change the flavor of the oil.

3. Sauté the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken to the pan. Sauté the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add Vegetables and Garlic: Next, add the mixed vegetables and the minced garlic to the pan. Stir-fry them together until the vegetables are tender-crisp, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

5. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. This will create the flavorful sauce that coats your chicken and vegetables.

6. Combine Everything: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the pan. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

7. Toss in the Noodles: Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the pan, tossing everything together until it is well combined and heated through.

8. Serve and Garnish: Serve your Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein immediately, garnished with chopped green onions for a fresh, flavorful finish.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

Serving Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein can be as simple or as fancy as you like. For a casual meal, you can dish out the noodles and chicken directly onto plates or bowls. Make sure to include some of the vibrant mixed vegetables, so everyone gets a colorful serving. A sprinkle of chopped green onions on top adds a nice crunch and enhances the flavor.

For a more festive presentation, you can use large serving platters. Arrange the noodles in a mound at the center, and then artfully place the sesame chicken and veggies on top. You can provide extra soy sauce on the side for those who enjoy a little more flavor. Pair it with some crispy spring rolls or dumplings for an added touch of authenticity to your meal.

For drinks, consider serving iced tea or lemonade, which pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory elements of the dish. If you want to keep the Asian theme going, try serving it with green tea or even a light beer.

How to Store Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

If you have leftover Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein, you’ll be happy to know it stores well. Here’s how to do it properly:

1. Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. This helps to prevent condensation in the storage container.

2. Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the leftover food to an airtight container. This ensures that the dish stays fresh and retains its flavor.

3. Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator where it will keep for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it instead.

4. Freezing: If you decide to freeze it, make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

5. Reheating: When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out during reheating. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little sesame oil or soy sauce to keep it tasty.

Tips to Make Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein

To ensure that your Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein turns out perfect every time, consider these handy tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also add color and nutrition to your dish. Opt for a mix that includes bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a vibrant presentation.

2. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Aim for a tender-crisp texture. Overcooked vegetables can lose their nutrients and become mushy.

3. Marinate the Chicken (Optional): For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic for about 30 minutes before cooking.

4. Watch the Heat: Always monitor the heat while cooking. Too high of a flame can burn the ingredients quickly, while too low will leave them undercooked.

5. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the honey and soy sauce to suit your taste. You can increase the honey for more sweetness or add more soy sauce for a saltier flavor.

Variation

Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit your preferences:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and follow the same cooking instructions.

• Seafood Variation: You can swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops. Add them to the pan after the garlic but before the vegetables, as they cook faster.

• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist.

• Different Noodles: While lo mein noodles are the traditional choice, you can use other types like rice noodles or even whole grain noodles for a healthier alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables besides bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots?

Yes, you can use any vegetables you enjoy. Sugar snap peas, snow peas, zucchini, or mushrooms all work well in this dish.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the noodles and vegetables right before serving for the best texture.

3. Is Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein gluten-free?

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

4. How can I make the dish healthier?

You can reduce the amount of honey and oil used in the recipe. Add more vegetables to increase fiber content, and consider using whole grain noodles for added nutrition.

5. What can I serve with Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein?

This dish pairs well with various sides, such as crispy spring rolls, egg rolls, or a light Asian salad with sesame dressing.

In conclusion, Sesame Chicken and Lo Mein is an easy and delicious dish to prepare at home. With a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy this flavorful meal that is sure to please everyone. Whether you are cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe will definitely impress! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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