Lo mein is a beloved classic that brings together tender noodles and savory sauce in every bite. Our kosher chicken lo mein recipe lets us enjoy this Chinese-American favorite while keeping it kosher and full of flavor. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when we want a comforting meal fast.
Using kosher chicken and fresh veggies, we create a balanced dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The sauce blends soy, garlic, and a hint of sweetness to coat the noodles perfectly. Whether you’re new to cooking lo mein or looking for a reliable kosher version, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.
Ingredients
To create the perfect kosher chicken lo mein that is both flavorful and satisfying, we combine fresh, high-quality ingredients. Let’s break down everything we need by category for easy preparation.
Chicken and Protein Ingredients
For a tender and juicy protein base, we use kosher chicken prepared simply to complement the bold flavors of the sauce.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless kosher chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, for cooking chicken
Vegetables and Aromatics
Fresh vegetables and aromatics bring vibrant color and a depth of flavor, balancing the savory sauce perfectly.
- 2 cups napa cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms, stems removed
- ½ cup sliced green onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce is the heart of our kosher chicken lo mein, blending salty, sweet, and umami notes to coat every strand of noodle.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Low-sodium soy sauce | ½ cup |
| Hoisin sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Toasted sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon (dissolved in 2 tablespoons water) |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
Noodles and Other Essentials
The noodles hold everything together and provide the signature texture we love in lo mein. Choosing the right noodles makes all the difference.
- 8 oz egg noodles or lo mein noodles, cooked al dente according to package instructions
- Salt, to taste during noodle boiling
With these carefully selected ingredients, our kosher chicken lo mein recipe combines a harmonious blend of tastes and textures that is simple to prepare and sure to please.
Equipment Needed
To master our Kosher Chicken Lo Mein Recipe, having the right kitchen tools is essential. This allows us to cook efficiently and achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Below is a detailed list of the essential equipment we recommend:
- Large wok or deep skillet: Ideal for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables quickly over high heat.
- Large pot: To boil the lo mein noodles until al dente.
- Colander or strainer: To drain the cooked noodles thoroughly.
- Sharp chef’s knife: For precise and safe chopping of kosher chicken, vegetables, garlic, and ginger.
- Cutting board: Preferably separate ones for meat and vegetables to maintain kosher standards.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of sauces and seasonings.
- Mixing bowls: To combine sauce ingredients before adding them to the stir-fry.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: To toss ingredients smoothly in the wok without breaking noodles.
- Tongs: Helpful for turning chicken pieces and mixing noodles evenly.
- Grater or microplane: For finely shredding fresh ginger if not pre-minced.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wok or deep skillet | Stir-frying chicken and vegetables |
| Large pot | Boiling lo mein noodles |
| Colander or strainer | Draining noodles thoroughly |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Cutting chicken and vegetables |
| Cutting board | Prepping ingredients with kosher separation in mind |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Accurate measurement of sauce and ingredients |
| Mixing bowls | Combining sauce ingredients |
| Spatula or wooden spoon | Tossing ingredients during cooking |
| Tongs | Handling chicken and noodles |
| Grater or microplane | Shredding fresh ginger |
Utilizing this equipment ensures our Kosher Chicken Lo Mein comes together perfectly with ease and precision.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, proper prep work streamlines the process and enhances flavor development. Let’s get everything ready for our Kosher Chicken Lo Mein.
Preparing the Chicken
- Use 1 lb boneless, skinless kosher chicken breast.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure even browning.
- Slice the chicken thinly against the grain into bite-sized strips about 1/4 inch thick for tender, quick cooking.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavor before cooking.
Chopping Vegetables
- Wash and dry all fresh produce thoroughly.
- Slice 1 cup napa cabbage into thin strips for a crisp texture.
- Peel and julienne 1 large carrot, cutting into matchstick-sized pieces.
- Remove stems and slice 4 shiitake mushrooms thinly for earthy flavor contribution.
- Chop 3 green onions finely, separating whites and greens for layered cooking.
- Mince 3 cloves of garlic and grate 1 tablespoon fresh ginger using a microplane to release aromatic oils.
| Vegetable | Preparation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Napa cabbage | Thin strips | 1 cup |
| Carrot | Julienne/matchsticks | 1 large |
| Shiitake mushrooms | Thin slices | 4 pieces |
| Green onions | Finely chopped | 3 stalks (whites & greens separated) |
| Garlic | Minced | 3 cloves |
| Ginger | Grated | 1 tablespoon |
Cooking the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Add 8 oz egg or lo mein noodles to boiling water and cook according to package instructions—typically 3 to 5 minutes until al dente.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.
- Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch.
- Toss noodles lightly with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil to keep them separated and prevent clumping when stir-frying later.
By completing these foundational steps, we create an efficient workflow that preserves the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures, setting us up for perfectly balanced Kosher Chicken Lo Mein.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our Kosher Chicken Lo Mein with perfectly cooked chicken, crisp vegetables, and flavorful noodles tossed in a savory sauce.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced kosher chicken breast in a single layer.
- Let the chicken sear without moving it for about 2 minutes until the edges start to brown.
- Stir-fry by tossing the chicken to cook evenly for another 2 to 3 minutes, until the pieces are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. Cover loosely to retain warmth.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
- In the same wok, add an additional 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the julienned carrots, chopped shiitake mushrooms, and sliced napa cabbage.
- Stir-fry the vegetables over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender-crisp and their vibrant colors intensify.
- Add the chopped green onions during the last minute of cooking for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Remove the vegetables from the wok and set aside, keeping them warm.
Combining Noodles and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken and vegetables to the wok.
- Add the drained, al dente 8 oz of egg or lo mein noodles.
- Slowly pour the prepared sauce mixture over the ingredients.
- Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the sauce coats every strand of noodle and piece of chicken and vegetable evenly.
- Cook for an additional minute to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and adhere to the noodles perfectly.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
| Step | Time | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken sear | 2 minutes | Let develop a brown crust |
| Chicken cook through | 2-3 minutes | No pink inside |
| Garlic & ginger stir | 30 seconds | Fragrant, do not burn |
| Vegetables stir-fry | 3-4 minutes | Tender-crisp |
| Toss with sauce | 2-3 minutes | Coat noodles evenly |
Tip: Avoid overcrowding the wok when stir-frying chicken or vegetables to ensure proper browning and crunch.
This method guarantees our Kosher Chicken Lo Mein bursts with balanced textures and rich aromas with every bite.
Assembly and Serving
Once all elements are cooked and prepped, it’s time to bring our Kosher Chicken Lo Mein together for a flavorful finish. Proper assembly ensures every bite delivers the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and aroma.
Mixing Everything Together
Begin by adding the cooked noodles into the wok or skillet containing the seared chicken and stir-fried vegetables. Pour the prepared lo mein sauce evenly over the mixture. Using a pair of tongs or a spatula, gently toss everything together on medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes. This step allows the sauce to coat each strand of noodle and vegetable slice, enhancing every component with deep, savory flavor.
We want to ensure the noodles remain tender yet slightly springy while absorbing the sauce without becoming soggy. Stirring constantly prevents sticking and guarantees a uniform distribution of heat and seasoning. Adjust heat carefully to maintain the ideal texture throughout.
| Step | Action | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Add noodles | Incorporate cooked noodles with chicken & veggies | Immediately |
| Pour sauce | Evenly distribute lo mein sauce | Immediately |
| Toss & heat | Toss and gently stir over medium-high heat | 2-3 minutes |
Garnishing Tips
To elevate our Kosher Chicken Lo Mein visually and flavor-wise, we recommend these simple yet impactful garnishes:
- Chopped green onions: Sprinkle fresh, thinly sliced green onions over the dish for a fresh, vibrant crunch and mild onion flavor.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds add a nuttiness and subtle texture contrast.
- Fresh cilantro: A small handful of chopped cilantro introduces a bright, herbaceous note that complements the savory sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who prefer a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat without overwhelming the dish.
As we plate the dish, serve hot to preserve the glossy sauce sheen and the satisfying bite of the noodles. Using a wide, shallow bowl or plate lets the colors and layers shine, inviting everyone to dig in.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing Kosher Chicken Lo Mein in advance saves us valuable time on busy days while preserving its vibrant flavors and appealing textures. Here are essential make-ahead and storage tips to ensure our dish remains delicious and safe to enjoy later.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook Noodles and Chicken Separately: We recommend cooking the lo mein noodles and searing the kosher chicken separately ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers once cooled to room temperature.
- Chop Vegetables in Advance: We can slice napa cabbage, julienne carrots, and chop shiitake mushrooms and green onions up to 24 hours before cooking. Store the prepped vegetables in the refrigerator, wrapped or sealed well to maintain freshness.
- Prepare Sauce in Advance: The flavorful soy-based sauce can be mixed in advance and refrigerated. This helps deepen the flavors and reduces our active cooking time.
Reheating and Assembly
- When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and vegetables together in a large wok or skillet over medium heat until warm. Add the cooked noodles and pour the pre-made sauce over the mixture. Stir-fry on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes to integrate flavors and restore the perfect saucy coating on the noodles.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage prolongs freshness and prevents spoilage. Follow these steps:
| Item | Storage Method | Refrigerator Duration | Freezer Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked kosher chicken | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | Up to 3 months |
| Cooked lo mein noodles | Airtight container | 3 to 5 days | Up to 2 months |
| Chopped vegetables | Sealed plastic wrap/container | 1 to 2 days | Not recommended |
| Sauce | Airtight jar/container | Up to 1 week | Not recommended |
Tips for Best Texture and Flavor
- Avoid freezing pre-cooked vegetables as they lose their crunch and vibrant color.
- When refrigerating, cool all components to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
- Reheat Kosher Chicken Lo Mein gently to avoid overcooking the noodles or drying out the chicken.
Conclusion
This kosher chicken lo mein recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward techniques to create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a savory sauce, we’ve crafted a recipe that’s easy to customize and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this lo mein delivers delicious results every time.
Give it a try and enjoy a taste of comforting homemade Asian cuisine that fits perfectly within kosher guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kosher chicken lo mein?
Kosher chicken lo mein is a noodle dish made with kosher-certified chicken, fresh vegetables, and egg or lo mein noodles, all tossed in a savory soy-based sauce. It balances flavors and textures for a comforting meal.
What ingredients are needed for kosher chicken lo mein?
Key ingredients include boneless, skinless kosher chicken breast, napa cabbage, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, green onions, garlic, ginger, egg or lo mein noodles, and a sauce made with low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and rice vinegar.
What kitchen equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need a large wok or deep skillet, a pot for boiling noodles, a colander, sharp chef’s knife, cutting boards, measuring cups/spoons, mixing bowls, spatula or wooden spoon, tongs, and a grater or microplane.
How do I properly prep the ingredients?
Slice the chicken thinly against the grain and pat dry. Wash and cut vegetables (napa cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, green onions) as instructed. Mince garlic and grate ginger. Boil noodles al dente, drain, and toss with oil to prevent sticking.
How is kosher chicken lo mein cooked?
First, sear chicken in hot oil until cooked. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and vegetables until crisp-tender. Combine chicken, vegetables, noodles, and sauce in the wok, tossing over medium-high heat for a few minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
Can I make kosher chicken lo mein ahead of time?
Yes! Cook noodles and chicken separately and store in airtight containers. Chop vegetables up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Sauce can also be prepared in advance. Reheat chicken and vegetables before adding noodles and sauce for quick assembly.
How should I serve kosher chicken lo mein?
Serve hot in wide, shallow bowls or plates. Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor and color.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Store cooked chicken, vegetables, and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week. Freeze components for longer storage, and reheat gently to maintain texture.