Oh, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner—Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein! This dish has a special place in my heart because it seamlessly combines two delicious worlds: comforting Italian spaghetti and flavorful Asian lo mein. It’s like my culinary dream team played a game of tag and created a vibrant, tasty dish!
One of my fondest memories was when I first tried this fusion comfort food at a friend’s potluck dinner. I praised it so much that my friend jokingly suggested I should make it myself. Challenge accepted! After some experimentation in my kitchen, I’ve perfected a recipe that I can whip up in no time and is always a hit. Whether you’re trying to impress someone special or feeding the fam, Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein is sure to become one of your go-to meals too!
What’s in Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein?
Here’s a little breakdown of the key players in this delicious dish:
Chicken Breast: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breast because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. You can slice or shred it, making it as fancy or as rustic as you’d like!
Spaghetti: This might be a surprising ingredient for some, but trust me, spaghetti works like a charm! It gives you that comforting pasta vibe while allowing the stir-fry sauce to cling perfectly.
Vegetables: I usually go for bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. They add crunch and vibrant colors to make the dish pop! Feel free to throw in whatever veggies you have on hand—zucchini or broccoli are fantastic too.
Lo Mein Sauce: This is the secret sauce that ties everything together! Typically, it consists of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of sugar. The balance of salty, sweet, and nutty flavors brings everything to life.
Garlic and Ginger: No Asian dish would be complete without these aromatic powerhouses! They add depth and zing to the meal, giving it that authentic stir-fry taste.
Is Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish has some excellent health benefits while being oh-so-tasty.
Chicken Breast: High in protein, low in fat—it’s perfect for muscle repair and keeping you energized. Plus, it’s a lean choice that won’t weigh you down.
Vegetables: The colorful array of veggies means you’re getting a range of vitamins and minerals. More crunch equals more nutrition, and they provide fiber to aid digestion.
Whole Wheat Spaghetti: If you’re looking to make it a smidge healthier, swapping out regular spaghetti for whole wheat is a great option. It adds extra fiber and nutrients.
A little note, though: keep an eye on the sauce! Some store-bought varieties can be high in sodium. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or make your own if you’re concerned about salt intake.
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 4 people. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless Chicken Breast, sliced or shredded
– 8 oz Spaghetti (or whole wheat for a healthier touch)
– 2 cups Mixed Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 3 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp Ginger, minced or grated
– ¼ cup Soy Sauce (low-sodium preferred)
– 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
– 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
– 1 tbsp Sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for cooking (I recommend vegetable or canola oil)
How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein?
Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s your step-by-step guide:
1. **Cook the Spaghetti**: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prep the Chicken**: In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1-2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. **Add Aromatics**: Toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—enjoy the smell wafting through your kitchen!
4. **Stir in Vegetables**: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry until they are tender but still crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
5. **Combine Everything**: Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the chicken and veggies. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
6. **Adjust Seasoning**: Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper as desired.
7. **Serve**: Plate it up, sprinkle some extra green onions on top if you want to show off, and enjoy your delightful Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein!
Get Creative with Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein!
Here are a few fun tips to make this dish your own:
– **Protein Swap**: Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different twist.
– **Extra Spice**: If you’re like me and can’t resist a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or Sriracha into the mix!
– **Make it a Meal Prep**: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch throughout the week!
I can’t wait for you to give this Chicken Spaghetti Lo Mein a whirl! Trust me, once you make this, you’ll be hooked, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking, my friends!
