Cheap Chicken Lo Mein: A Culinary Lifesaver

I remember those ramen-fueled nights during college. Money was tight, time was even tighter, and the craving for something more substantial than instant noodles was a constant battle. That’s when I discovered the magic of turning humble ramen into a surprisingly satisfying and flavorful lo mein. It wasn’t fancy, but it was warm, filling, and, most importantly, it tasted like home-cooked food even when home was a dorm room. This recipe is inspired by those days of culinary resourcefulness, proving that delicious doesn’t have to break the bank.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: About 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Budget-Friendly

Ingredients

• 3 chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 3 (3 ounce) packages oriental-flavor instant ramen noodles
• 3 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce
• Optional: vegetables such as frozen peas and carrots, sliced bell peppers, or shredded cabbage

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Large pot
• Colander

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the chicken. In a large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil (if needed, though the soy and teriyaki sauce can provide enough moisture). Add the diced chicken breasts to the pan.
2. Pour in a splash of soy sauce and teriyaki sauce – about 1 tablespoon of each – over the chicken. You can add other seasonings at this stage, such as garlic powder, ginger, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
3. Pan fry the chicken over medium-high heat until it is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring no pink remains and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. While the chicken is cooking, start preparing the ramen noodles. In a large pot, bring water to a boil according to the package directions of the instant ramen noodles.
5. Add all 3 packages of ramen noodles to the boiling water and cook as directed on the package. Usually, this takes about 2-3 minutes.
6. Once the noodles are cooked to your liking, carefully drain them in a colander, removing as much water as possible.
7. Return the drained noodles to the pot. Add the seasoning packets from all 3 packages of ramen, 3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce, and 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce.
8. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot with the noodles and sauce.
9. Mix everything very well, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and the chicken is distributed throughout.
10. Cook the mixture for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the flavors to meld together.
11. If desired, add vegetables at this stage. Frozen peas and carrots can be added directly from the freezer, while other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or shredded cabbage may need a few extra minutes to cook. Stir the vegetables into the noodles and cook until they are heated through and tender-crisp.
12. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the noodles from sticking together, toss them with a small amount of sesame oil after draining.
• If you’re using frozen vegetables, thaw them slightly before adding them to the noodles to prevent them from cooling down the dish.
• For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water to cook the ramen noodles.
• Adjust the amount of soy sauce and teriyaki sauce to your taste preferences. Start with the smaller amount and add more as needed.
• Don’t overcook the noodles! They should be slightly firm to the bite, or al dente. Overcooked noodles will become mushy.
• If you want to add some spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• If the lo mein seems dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Cheap Chicken Lo Mein hot, directly from the pot or skillet. It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to prevent the noodles from drying out. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for longer storage. Allow to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Frozen lo mein can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator and reheated as described above.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	489.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	182 g	37%
Total Fat	20.3 g	31%
Saturated Fat	7.8 g	39%
Cholesterol	69.6 mg	23%
Sodium	2418.4 mg	100%
Total Carbohydrate	44 g	14%
Dietary Fiber	1.6 g	6%
Sugars	3.1 g	12%
Protein	31.3 g	62%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Lo Mein: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as tofu or mushrooms.
• Shrimp Lo Mein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Spicy Lo Mein: Add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Deluxe Lo Mein: Include other protein sources, such as sliced pork or beef.
• Low-Sodium Lo Mein: Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to reduce the sodium content. You could also use fresh ramen noodles instead of instant.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use different flavors of ramen noodles?
A: Absolutely! While oriental flavor is classic, chicken, beef, or even shrimp ramen can work well depending on your preference. Just be mindful of the sodium content in the seasoning packets.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Broccoli, snap peas, water chestnuts, and baby corn are all great additions.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While best served fresh, you can make this ahead of time and reheat it. However, the noodles may become a bit softer upon reheating.

Q: What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?
A: You can substitute with a mix of soy sauce, a touch of brown sugar or honey, and a dash of ginger.

Q: Can I use fresh noodles instead of ramen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh lo mein noodles instead of ramen. Cook them according to package directions and then add them to the sauce and chicken. You will likely need to add some chicken broth or water to the sauce as there will not be a seasoning packet.

Final Thoughts

This Cheap Chicken Lo Mein recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious, satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s quick to prepare and easy to customize to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to transform humble ramen into a culinary delight! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and flavors to create your own unique version. And, as always, share your feedback and creations – I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Enjoy!