Easy Crockpot Chicken Lo Mein

The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces in this Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein creates a comforting and satisfying dish. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tbsp oyster sauce

• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1 tbsp minced ginger

• 8 oz lo mein noodles

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 cup snow peas

• 2 green onions, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

2. Add sliced chicken breasts to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is cooked through.

3. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

4. Add red bell pepper, shredded carrots, snow peas, and green onions to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

5. Add cooked lo mein noodles to the slow cooker. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein: A Flavorful and Easy Asian-Inspired Dish

The History and Inspiration Behind Lo Mein

Lo Mein is a classic Chinese noodle dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Originating in China, “Lo Mein” translates to “tossed noodles,” distinguishing it from its sibling dish, Chow Mein, where noodles are stir-fried to a crispy texture. Traditionally, Lo Mein consists of soft egg noodles mixed with a savory sauce, vegetables, and protein such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.

As Chinese cuisine made its way to Western cultures, Lo Mein became a staple in Chinese-American restaurants. The dish is known for its rich umami flavors, versatility, and ability to adapt to different dietary preferences. With the advent of modern kitchen appliances, slow cookers have revolutionized how we prepare meals, making classic dishes like Lo Mein easier than ever to make at home.

Why Choose Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein?

This Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein recipe is a game-changer for those who love Asian cuisine but prefer a more hands-off approach to cooking. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

1. Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
2. Tender, Juicy Chicken – Cooking chicken low and slow results in incredibly tender and flavorful meat that absorbs all the savory goodness of the sauce.
3. Customizable Ingredients – Whether you prefer extra veggies, a bit of spice, or a different protein, this recipe is easy to tweak to your personal taste.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep – This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
5. Healthier Alternative – Homemade Lo Mein allows you to control the ingredients, reducing excess sodium and unhealthy additives found in takeout versions.

The Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to the dish’s deep, rich flavors and nutritional benefits:

• Chicken Breast – A lean source of protein that keeps you full and energized.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth and a salty balance to the dish.
• Oyster Sauce & Hoisin Sauce – These sauces bring a sweet-savory complexity that elevates the overall taste.
• Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty aroma and enhances the dish’s authentic Asian flavor.
• Garlic & Ginger – Both ingredients are known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Lo Mein Noodles – These soft, chewy noodles perfectly absorb the flavors of the sauce.
• Fresh Vegetables – Bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas provide a satisfying crunch and a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce – In the slow cooker, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to create a rich, flavorful base.
2. Add the Chicken – Place the thinly sliced chicken into the slow cooker, ensuring it is coated with the sauce. Let it cook on low for about 4 hours until tender.
3. Cook the Noodles Separately – While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Lo Mein noodles according to the package instructions.
4. Incorporate the Vegetables – Add bell peppers, shredded carrots, and snow peas to the slow cooker and let them cook for an additional 30 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Combine Everything – Toss in the cooked noodles and mix well until evenly coated with the sauce and combined with the chicken and veggies.
6. Serve & Garnish – Plate the Lo Mein and top with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Lo Mein

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Cook the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy in the slow cooker.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables add vibrant flavor to the dish.
• Add a Kick – If you enjoy a little heat, add a drizzle of Sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Experiment with Proteins – Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Use Low-Sodium Sauces – If you’re watching your salt intake, opt for reduced-sodium soy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice for extra heartiness
• A side of crispy spring rolls or dumplings
• A light, refreshing cucumber salad
• Hot and sour soup for a classic Chinese takeout experience at home

Storing and Reheating

This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. For reheating:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to rehydrate the noodles.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein is the perfect balance of convenience and flavor, offering a homemade take on a beloved classic. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a comforting and delicious meal, this dish delivers every time. Enjoy the ease of slow cooking while indulging in a satisfying, savory bowl of Lo Mein that rivals your favorite takeout spot! Try this recipe today, and you’ll never look at store-bought Lo Mein the same way again!