If you're a fan of Chinese food, chances are you've heard of Chicken Lo Mein. This savory dish is a staple in many Chinese restaurants and can also be easily made at home. And the best part? 1 cup of chicken lo mein contains only 278 Calories, making it a healthier option compared to other Chinese dishes.
In addition to being low in Calories, Chicken Lo Mein is a good source of Protein and carbohydrates. It typically contains Vegetables like green onions, carrots, and cabbage, which add nutritional value to the dish. However, the sauce used to cook the chicken and Noodles can be high in sodium and sugar, so it's important to be mindful of portion sizes.
In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, cooking process, health benefits, and substitutes of Chicken Lo Mein. We'll also provide some tips and tricks for making a delicious plate of chicken lo mein at home.
What is Chicken Lo Mein?
Chicken Lo Mein is a popular Chinese dish made with stir-fried chicken, Vegetables, and egg Noodles. It's typically served with a flavorful sauce that includes Soy Sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. The dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a popular takeout option for many people. The noodles used in chicken lo mein are made from wheat flour and eggs, giving them a chewy texture that pairs well with the tender chicken and crisp vegetables. The dish is typically garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Overall, chicken lo mein is a delicious and filling dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side to other Chinese dishes.
Ingredients of Chicken Lo Mein
To make Chicken Lo Mein at home, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz. egg Noodles
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced cabbage
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 3 minced Garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
These ingredients can be adjusted based on personal preference, and other
Vegetables such as mushrooms or peppers can also be added for variety. Some
Recipes also call for the addition of ginger or chili flakes to amp up the flavor.
How to Cook Chicken Lo Mein?
To make Chicken Lo Mein at home, follow these steps:
- Cook the egg Noodles according to package instructions.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and cook in the pan for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add the Garlic, carrots, and cabbage to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the Vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cooked noodles, green onions, Soy Sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, and toss to combine.
- Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot.
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, so leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Is Chicken Lo Mein Healthy?
Chicken Lo Mein can be a healthy option, but it depends on the preparation and portion size. The dish is high in Protein and fiber, and the Vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, the sauce used to cook the dish can be high in sodium, sugar, and Calories. If you're looking to make a healthier version of chicken lo mein at home, consider using low-sodium Soy Sauce, reducing the amount of oil used, and adding more vegetables to the dish. You can also swap out the egg Noodles for whole wheat noodles or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option. Overall, chicken lo mein can be a healthy choice when enjoyed in moderation and prepared with nutritious ingredients.
Substitutes for Chicken Lo Mein
If you're not a fan of Chicken, or simply want to switch up your Chinese takeout order, there are plenty of substitutes for Chicken Lo Mein. Some popular options include:
- Beef lo mein
- Shrimp lo mein
- Veggie lo mein
- Pork lo mein
- Mushroom lo mein
These options can be made at home or ordered from your local Chinese restaurant.
Calories in Chicken Lo Mein
One cup of Chicken Lo Mein contains approximately 278 Calories, according to the USDA. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the portion size and ingredients used in the dish. If you're trying to keep track of your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of your portion sizes and choose ingredients that are nutrient-dense and low in calories. You can also make a lighter version of chicken lo mein at home by using less oil and adding more Vegetables to the dish.
Nutrition Facts of Chicken Lo Mein
One cup of Chicken Lo Mein contains the following nutrients, according to the USDA:
- Calories: 278
- Protein: 17 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 412 mg
- Sugar: 3 g
These values are based on a standard recipe and portion size, and can vary depending on the ingredients used in the dish.
Tips for Making Delicious Chicken Lo Mein
To make a flavorful and delicious plate of Chicken Lo Mein, consider these tips:
- Marinate the chicken in Soy Sauce and sesame oil for added flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh Vegetables for a crisp and colorful dish.
- Cook the Noodles al dente for the best texture.
- Adjust the sauce to your taste by adding more or less soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil.
- Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
With these tips, you'll be able to make a delicious and authentic plate of chicken lo mein in no time!
Side Dishes for Chicken Lo Mein
If you want to round out your meal, consider adding one of these side dishes to your Chicken Lo Mein:
- Egg rolls
- Fried rice
- Hot and sour soup
- Crab rangoons
- Beef and broccoli
These dishes are classic Chinese sides that pair well with chicken lo mein and will make for a satisfying meal.
Famous Chicken Lo Mein Recipes
If you're looking for recipe inspiration, look no further than these famous Chicken Lo Mein Recipes:
- Gordon Ramsay's Chicken Chow Mein
- Easy Chicken Lo Mein by Damn Delicious
- Chicken Lo Mein by Rasa Malaysia
- Classic Chicken Lo Mein by The Woks of Life
These recipes showcase different variations of chicken lo mein and can be tailored to your taste preferences.
"Cooking is like painting or writing a song. Just as there are only so many notes or colors, there are only so many flavors - it's how you combine them that sets you apart." -Wolfgang Puck
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Lo Mein
1. What is chicken lo mein?
Chicken lo mein is a popular Chinese dish consisting of stir-fried Noodles, Vegetables, and chicken. The dish usually includes ingredients such as carrots, celery, onions, and bean sprouts. It is often seasoned with Soy Sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
2. How many Calories are in a cup of chicken lo mein?
A cup of chicken lo mein contains approximately 278 calories. The calorie count may vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.
3. Is chicken lo mein healthy?
While chicken lo mein can be a tasty meal option, it is not considered a particularly healthy one. The dish is often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and calories. However, you can make some minor adjustments to the recipe to make it a bit healthier, such as using whole wheat noodles and adding more vegetables.
4. What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken lo mein?
Some good side dishes to serve with chicken lo mein include egg rolls, dumplings, fried rice, and stir-fried vegetables.
5. How do you store leftover chicken lo mein?
To store leftover chicken lo mein, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat in a pan with a bit of oil or water.