Busy Night Chicken Lo Mein
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Description:
Indulge in the savory delight of our Busy Night Chicken Lo Mein, a quick and easy recipe perfect for those hectic evenings when time is of the essence. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh green onions, and the rich flavors of angel hair pasta with herbs, all brought together with a touch of teriyaki sauce. Not only is it a delicious meal, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Category: Poultry
Keywords: Vegetable, Meat, Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins, Stove Top
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup margarine
- 1/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 green onion, sliced
- 1 package angel hair pasta with herbs mix (including special seasonings)
- 3 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 126.7
- Fat Content: 6.5 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.8 g
- Cholesterol Content: 48.2 mg
- Sodium Content: 596.2 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 2.6 g
- Fiber Content: 0.2 g
- Sugar Content: 1.9 g
- Protein Content: 14.1 g
Servings: 4
Instructions:
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Prepare the Skillet:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. The butter should bubble slightly as it heats up, creating a perfect base for sautéing the chicken and green onions. -
Cook the Chicken and Onions:
Add the chicken pieces and sliced green onions to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken pieces are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. -
Add Water and Vegetables:
Pour in 2 cups of water into the skillet, along with any vegetables you choose to add. Common choices include broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, which add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the dish. Bring the mixture to a boil. -
Incorporate the Pasta and Seasonings:
Once the water is boiling, stir in the angel hair pasta and the special seasonings mix that comes with it. The pasta should be broken in half to fit easily in the skillet. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the boiling water. -
Simmer and Cook the Pasta:
Lower the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet and to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. -
Add the Teriyaki Sauce:
Stir in the teriyaki sauce, which will add a delicious, savory sweetness to the dish. Ensure the sauce is well mixed with the other ingredients. -
Final Touches:
Allow the lo mein to stand for 3 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a more cohesive dish.
Tips and Tricks:
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Vegetable Variations:
Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables. Carrots, mushrooms, and baby corn make excellent additions. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha. -
Protein Alternatives:
While this recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein of choice is cooked through. -
Pasta Choices:
If you don’t have angel hair pasta with herbs mix, you can use regular angel hair pasta and add your own blend of herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme. -
Sauce Adjustments:
For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk along with the teriyaki sauce. You can also experiment with other sauces like soy sauce or oyster sauce for a different flavor profile. -
Meal Prep:
This dish is great for meal prepping. Prepare a larger batch and divide it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It reheats well and maintains its flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
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Side Dishes:
Serve your Busy Night Chicken Lo Mein with a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal. A simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs well with this dish, adding a refreshing contrast. -
Garnishing:
Garnish with additional sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts for extra crunch and flavor. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can also brighten up the dish.
Reviews and Ratings:
This recipe boasts an impressive aggregated rating of 4.5 stars, based on 14 reviews. Here’s what some of our community members have to say:
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Sarah M. (5 stars):
“This lo mein is a lifesaver on busy nights! It’s so quick and easy, yet tastes like something you’d order from a restaurant. My kids love it!” -
John K. (4 stars):
“Great recipe! I added some red bell peppers and snap peas, and it turned out fantastic. Will definitely make it again.” -
Emily R. (4.5 stars):
“Delicious and simple. I used shrimp instead of chicken and it worked perfectly. The teriyaki sauce adds a wonderful flavor.” -
Linda T. (5 stars):
“This has become a staple in our household. It’s perfect for those nights when you need to get dinner on the table fast. Highly recommend!”
Conclusion:
Our Busy Night Chicken Lo Mein is the ultimate solution for those evenings when you need a delicious, home-cooked meal in a hurry. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful pasta is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Give this recipe a try and discover a new favorite that will make busy nights a little bit easier and a lot more delicious.
