What To Know
- Add more soy sauce for a saltier flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- Add a tablespoon of pineapple juice and a teaspoon of lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy and sweet twist.
- Add the lo mein to a bowl of chicken broth for a hearty and comforting soup.
Are you a dedicated lo mein lover who finds themselves avoiding the vegetable medley that often comes standard? Maybe you have picky eaters in your household, or maybe you just prefer the simplicity of a meat and noodle dish. Whatever your reason, you’re in luck! This blog post will guide you through how to make chicken lo mein without vegetables, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.
Embrace the Simplicity: A No-Veggie Lo Mein Recipe
This recipe is all about streamlining the traditional lo mein experience, focusing on the core flavors and textures you love. We’ll be using a combination of fresh ingredients and pantry staples to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 (12 ounce) package lo mein noodles
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to coat the chicken completely.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 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. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4. Cook the Noodles: While the sauce is simmering, cook the lo mein noodles according to package directions. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water.
5. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the noodles evenly.
6. Finish and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Gently toss the chicken and noodles together to combine. Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect No-Veggie Lo Mein
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more soy sauce for a saltier flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- Noodles Matter: Lo mein noodles are traditionally used, but you can also substitute with other types of Chinese noodles, such as egg noodles or chow mein noodles.
- Get Creative with Protein: While chicken is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu.
- Don’t Forget the Garnish: While we’re keeping vegetables out, you can still add a touch of freshness with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Variations on the Theme: Exploring Flavor Profiles
This basic recipe provides a fantastic foundation for endless flavor variations. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Spicy Lo Mein: Add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture for a fiery kick.
- Ginger-Soy Lo Mein: Substitute the garlic powder with a tablespoon of grated ginger for a more complex flavor.
- Sesame-Ginger Lo Mein: Combine the ginger and sesame oil for a nutty and fragrant dish.
- Sweet and Sour Lo Mein: Add a tablespoon of pineapple juice and a teaspoon of lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy and sweet twist.
Beyond the Plate: Serving Suggestions
This no-veggie lo mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving ideas:
- Simple and Satisfying: Enjoy the lo mein on its own for a quick and easy meal.
- Side Dish Delight: Serve it alongside a side of steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a more complete meal.
- Wrap it Up: Use the lo mein as a filling for spring rolls or wraps.
- Soup It Up: Add the lo mein to a bowl of chicken broth for a hearty and comforting soup.
The Final Bite: A Deliciously Simple Meal
By embracing the essence of lo mein, we’ve created a delicious and easy-to-make dish that caters to those who prefer a vegetable-free experience. This recipe is a testament to the fact that simplicity can be just as satisfying as complexity. So, next time you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal, try this no-veggie lo mein and discover a new favorite.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
A: Absolutely! You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, tofu, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I add any other seasonings to the sauce?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like hoisin sauce, sriracha, or even a dash of sugar for a sweeter flavor.
Q: Can I freeze the leftover lo mein?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover lo mein for later. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
A: Definitely! You can use tofu instead of chicken and swap the oyster sauce for a vegan alternative.
