Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we understand that comfort food often translates into dishes that are rich in flavor, satisfying to the soul, and simple enough to prepare without stress. Among these beloved dishes, Asian-inspired recipes hold a special place, especially when they combine fresh ingredients with bold, savory sauces. Today, we present to you an exhaustive, detailed guide to preparing a classic Chicken Lo Mein—an iconic dish that epitomizes the harmony of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly coated noodles in a delectable sauce. This recipe is more than just a meal; it is an experience that transports your palate directly to the bustling streets of Asia, where street vendors craft these flavorful noodle dishes with passion and precision.

The beauty of Chicken Lo Mein lies in its versatility and the ability to adapt it to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer more vegetables, a spicier kick, or a richer sauce, this recipe provides a comprehensive foundation upon which you can build. With step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks, as well as insights into ingredient choices, this guide aims to empower home cooks to master this dish like a professional chef. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare yourself for an immersive culinary journey that will leave your family and friends craving more!

Time

The total time required to prepare this Chicken Lo Mein recipe is approximately 50 minutes, divided into specific phases to optimize efficiency and flavor development:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes – This includes chopping vegetables, preparing the chicken, and assembling ingredients.
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes – From boiling the noodles to stir-frying vegetables and combining everything in the sauce.

Proper time management ensures a seamless cooking experience, allowing each component to be cooked to perfection while maintaining freshness and texture.

Needed Equipment

Equipping your kitchen with the right tools is essential for achieving optimal results. Here is a comprehensive list of equipment needed:

• Large Pot: For boiling lo mein noodles, ideally a 3-4 quart capacity with a lid.
• Medium Saucepan: For dissolving chicken bouillon and preparing broth-based components.
• Large Skillet or Wok: A high-sided skillet or wok is preferable for stir-frying vegetables and combining ingredients evenly.
• Slotted Spoon: For removing cooked chicken from the broth without excess liquid.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of liquids and seasonings.
• Chef’s Knife: Sharp and durable, essential for chopping vegetables, chicken, and slicing scallions.
• Cutting Board: Preferably non-slip for safety and stability during chopping.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing sauces and marinating ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend sauces smoothly, especially cornstarch mixtures.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and tossing ingredients during stir-fry.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurately measuring soy sauce, wine, and spices.
• Grater or Julienne Peeler: For preparing carrots and other vegetables if needed.
• Kitchen Tongs: Helpful for tossing noodles and vegetables without breaking them.
• Thermometer (Optional): To verify chicken reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F or 74°C).

Tags

This recipe falls under several culinary categories, making it versatile for various dietary and culinary preferences:

• Asian Cuisine
• Stir-Fry
• Comfort Food
• Quick & Easy
• Family-Friendly
• Homemade Noodles
• Chicken Dishes
• Vegetable-Based Recipes

Serving Size

The recipe yields approximately 4 servings, which makes it suitable for a family dinner or a gathering of friends. Each serving contains a hearty portion of noodles, chicken, and vegetables, providing a balanced meal with ample nutrients and flavor.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as Intermediate—perfect for home cooks with some experience in stir-frying and handling multiple ingredients simultaneously. However, even beginners can successfully execute this dish by following the detailed steps and preparation tips provided in this guide. The key to success lies in mise en place—organizing all ingredients before starting—and maintaining a steady cooking rhythm.

Allergen Information

While this recipe is designed to be accessible, it contains common allergens:

• Gluten: Present in soy sauce and lo mein noodles (unless gluten-free noodles are used).
• Soy: Soy sauce contains soy protein.
• Wheat: Lo mein noodles and soy sauce may contain wheat.
• Garlic and Ginger: Potential allergens for sensitive individuals.

To accommodate food allergies or sensitivities, substitute gluten-free soy sauce (tamari), gluten-free noodles, or omit specific ingredients as needed.

Dietary Preference

This dish can be adapted to various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and soy sauce.
• Low Sodium: Choose low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.
• Keto: Replace noodles with shirataki or zucchini noodles and adjust ingredients accordingly.
• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh; ensure sauces are vegetarian-friendly.

Course

This recipe is categorized as a Main Course, ideal for lunch or dinner. It offers a complete, satisfying meal with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates all in one dish.

Cuisine

Authentically inspired by Chinese-American cuisine, this Chicken Lo Mein embodies the vibrant flavors and cooking techniques typical of East Asian culinary traditions.

Ingredients in Tables

Core Ingredients

Optional and Additional Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Phase

Step 1: Dissolving the Chicken Bouillon

Begin by bringing a small saucepan filled with 2 cups of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the instant chicken bouillon granules, stirring constantly until completely dissolved. This process creates a flavorful broth that will serve as the base for cooking the chicken and flavoring the dish. Stir until the granules are fully integrated, forming a clear, savory broth. Once dissolved, set aside 1/2 cup of this broth mixture for later use in the sauce thickening process. Carefully transfer the remaining broth to a heat-safe container and allow it to cool slightly to prevent overcooking the chicken when added later.

Step 2: Preparing the Chicken

While the broth is cooling, take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve even cooking and prevents splattering during stir-frying. Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice the chicken into thin strips approximately 1/4 inch wide and 2 inches long. This size ensures quick cooking and a tender texture. Season the chicken lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired, but keep in mind that soy sauce and other seasonings will be added later. Place the sliced chicken in a bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Preparing Vegetables

Wash all fresh vegetables thoroughly. Julienne the carrot into thin matchstick-sized strips, which not only look appealing but also cook quickly and evenly. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. For the cabbage, shred it finely, aiming for thin, delicate strands that will soften slightly during stir-fry without becoming mushy. Slice the water chestnuts into thin rounds or strips based on preference. Slice the green onions into small rounds, keeping the white and green parts separate if desired for layering flavors. Prepare the frozen peas by measuring out 1 cup and setting aside to thaw slightly if needed.

Cooking Phase

Step 4: Boiling the Noodles

Fill a large pot with water, approximately 4-6 quarts, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the lo mein noodles. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions, usually between 3-5 minutes, until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. To prevent the noodles from sticking together, drain them into a colander and rinse with cold water. Toss lightly with a teaspoon of vegetable oil to keep them separated until ready to incorporate into the stir-fry. Set aside.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken

In the same large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the sliced chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving, allowing the chicken to develop a light sear. Then, stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer if needed, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Keep warm.

Step 6: Stir-Frying Vegetables

In the same skillet or wok, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Once hot, add minced garlic and ground ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the prepared vegetables—water chestnuts, shredded cabbage, sliced celery, julienned carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and green onions. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, maintaining high heat to keep vegetables crisp-tender. The vegetables should be brightly colored and slightly softened but not limp. During stir-frying, toss vegetables continuously for even heat distribution, ensuring no burning or sticking occurs.

Step 7: Incorporating Chicken and Noodles

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Gently toss to combine. Next, add the drained lo mein noodles, using tongs or a spatula to lift and mix the ingredients thoroughly. Cook together for 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and ensuring the noodles are heated evenly. At this stage, the dish should look vibrant, fragrant, and well-combined.

Step 8: Preparing and Adding the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of dry white wine, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will act as the sauce’s base, providing sweetness, saltiness, and a slight thickening effect. Re-stir the cooled broth mixture in the saucepan to ensure the cornstarch is evenly suspended, then pour it into the skillet. Stir continuously, allowing the sauce to cook and thicken over 2-3 minutes. The sauce should become glossy and slightly clingy, coating all ingredients evenly.

Preparation Tips

• Use high heat: Stir-frying requires quick cooking at high temperatures to preserve the crunchiness of vegetables and prevent ingredients from becoming soggy.
• Prep all ingredients beforehand: Organize vegetables, chicken, noodles, and liquids to streamline the cooking process.
• Slice ingredients uniformly: Consistent size ensures even cooking and a professional appearance.
• Adjust soy sauce and seasoning: Taste the dish before final serving and add more soy sauce or seasonings for preferred saltiness or umami.
• Don’t overcook vegetables: Maintain a crisp-tender texture to maximize flavor and health benefits.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality noodles make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Soak or rinse noodles: Rinsing cooked noodles with cold water prevents sticking and stops the cooking process.
• Marinate chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken briefly with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil before cooking.
• Adjust sauce thickness: Add more cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker sauce or less if you want a lighter coating.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, sautéed separately for best results.

Add-ons and Variations

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes or Sriracha sauce into the stir-fry for heat.
• Sesame Flavor: Drizzle toasted sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma.
• Egg Addition: Scramble an egg in the pan before adding vegetables for extra protein and richness.
• Extra Protein: Add shrimp or beef strips to diversify the dish.

Side Dishes

Complement your Chicken Lo Mein with these delicious side dishes:

• Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls with dipping sauce.
• Egg Drop Soup: Light and savory, perfect as a starter.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber slices dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil.
• Steamed Dumplings: Pork, chicken, or vegetable-filled dumplings for added variety.

Improvements and Variations

To elevate or customize this dish further, consider these enhancements:

• Homemade Noodles: Make your own lo mein or egg noodles for an authentic touch.
• Broth-Based Version: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor base.
• Gluten-Free Version: Select gluten-free noodles and soy sauce alternatives.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan, and ensure sauces are vegan-friendly.
• Additional Sauces: Experiment with oyster sauce, hoisin, or sesame oil for deeper complexity.

Save and Store

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later consumption. To store leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container. Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive moisture. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent noodles from becoming overly soft.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze cooked noodles as they tend to become mushy upon thawing.

FAQ

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free lo mein noodles and replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes. Shrimp, beef, tofu, or tempeh are excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly to prevent overcooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes, Sriracha, or chopped fresh chili peppers during stir-frying. Be mindful of spice levels to suit your taste.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, by substituting chicken with plant-based proteins and ensuring sauces are vegetarian-friendly, you can enjoy a vegetarian version.

What are some tips to prevent noodles from sticking?

Rinse cooked noodles with cold water, toss with a small amount of oil, and avoid overcooking them in boiling water.

Conclusion

Crafting a perfect Chicken Lo Mein at home is a rewarding culinary pursuit that combines technique, fresh ingredients, and a touch of creativity. By following the detailed steps outlined here, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Remember, the secret lies in high heat stir-frying, quick cooking, and balancing flavors to suit your palate. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish promises to impress and satisfy. Love With Recipes is committed to guiding you through every culinary adventure—so don’t hesitate to experiment, adapt, and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

References

• Seon, S. (2018). The Essential Asian Cookbook. Asian Culinary Press.
• Lee, J. (2020). Stir-Fry Secrets: Techniques for Perfect Asian Dishes. Gourmet Publishing.