Craving that irresistible taste of classic takeout Lo Mein? While traditional versions often contain gluten, you don’t have to miss out! This easy, healthy Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein recipe delivers all the savory flavors you love without compromise. It’s a customizable, weeknight-friendly meal that tastes incredible and fits perfectly into a gluten-free lifestyle.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein
You’ll adore this recipe for so many reasons. It brings those delicious takeout flavors right into your kitchen, perfectly suited for a cozy night in.
- Quick & Easy: Get dinner on the table in just about 30 minutes, from prep to plate.
- Healthier Choice: Made with fresh vegetables and lean chicken, it’s a wholesome alternative to conventional takeout.
- Totally Customizable: Easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add different proteins to suit your taste.
- Perfectly Gluten-Free: Enjoy all the authentic taste of Lo Mein, made safe and delicious for gluten-free diets.
For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, adopting understanding a gluten-free diet is essential for managing symptoms and maintaining health.
- Beginner-Friendly: Simple, step-by-step instructions make this a perfect dish for any home cook.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, ~1lb, cut into thin strips
- 1 Tablespoon gluten-free reduced-sodium Tamari
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- Pinch white pepper
- High-heat cooking oil (e.g., avocado, grapeseed)
For the Noodles & Vegetables:
- 8 oz gluten-free spaghetti or ramen noodles
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (pre-shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Lo Mein Sauce:
- 1/4 cup gluten-free reduced-sodium Tamari
- 3 Tablespoons gluten-free oyster sauce (Kikkoman brand recommended)
- 2 Tablespoons chicken broth, low-sodium if possible
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1–2 teaspoons chili sauce, like Sriracha (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Pinch white pepper
Notes & Substitutions
Using the right ingredients ensures an authentic and safely Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein. Gluten-free Tamari is a non-negotiable substitute for regular soy sauce, providing the umami depth without the gluten. Similarly, a certified gluten-free oyster sauce is crucial for that classic savory Lo Mein flavor; Kikkoman is a reliable brand. When selecting ingredients, it’s crucial to understand the importance of independently verified gluten-free products to ensure safety for those with sensitivities.
For the noodles, gluten-free spaghetti or rice-based ramen noodles work wonderfully. Feel free to explore other gluten-free noodle options you prefer. Enhance your dish by adding a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, extra carrots, or bok choy. Adjust the chili sauce to your liking to control the spice level; you can always add more at the table!
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools for this recipe. A large wok or a spacious 12-inch skillet is essential for proper stir-frying. You’ll also need a large pot for boiling your gluten-free noodles to perfection. A convenient Ziploc bag is great for marinating the chicken, and a small bowl will help you whisk together the savory sauce easily.
How To Make Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein
Getting this delightful Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein on the table is simple. Let’s walk through it together!
- Marinate Chicken: Place the sliced chicken strips into a large Ziploc bag. Add 1 Tablespoon of gluten-free Tamari, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and a pinch of white pepper. Squish the bag gently to ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated. Refrigerate the chicken while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, combine all the Lo Mein sauce ingredients: 1/4 cup gluten-free Tamari, 3 Tablespoons gluten-free oyster sauce, 2 Tablespoons chicken broth, 1 Tablespoon cornstarch, chili sauce (if using), 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper. Whisk everything until smooth and set aside.
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your gluten-free spaghetti or ramen noodles and cook according to package directions until they are al dente. This usually means they are firm but tender. Drain the noodles very well and set them aside.
- Stir-Fry Chicken: Heat a drizzle of high-heat cooking oil in your large wok or 12-inch skillet over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering hot, add the marinated chicken strips. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the cooked chicken from the wok and place it on a clean plate. Set it aside for later.
- Steam Broccoli: Add 3 Tablespoons of water to the wok. Once the water begins to simmer, add the broccoli florets. Cover the wok with a lid and let the broccoli steam for just 1 minute to tenderize it slightly.
- Sauté Vegetables: Remove the lid from the wok. Add the coleslaw mix, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and another small drizzle of cooking oil to the wok. Stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to wilt and become crisp-tender.
- Combine & Sauce: Return the cooked chicken and the drained noodles to the wok with the vegetables. Give the prepared Lo Mein sauce a quick re-whisk, then pour it evenly over all the ingredients in the wok.
- Thicken: Continue to stir-fry everything together for another 1-2 minutes. Stir constantly until the sauce has thickened beautifully and thoroughly coats all the noodles, chicken, and vegetables.
- Serve: Transfer your delicious Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein to serving bowls immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra chopped green onions if desired, and enjoy while hot!
Pro Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein
Achieving perfect stir-fry results for your Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein is easy with these simple tips.
- High Heat Cooking: Use a hot wok or skillet over high heat. This is crucial for getting that signature stir-fry sear and prevents ingredients from steaming instead of stir-frying.
- Prep Ahead: Before you even turn on the stove, chop all your vegetables, measure your sauces, and marinate your chicken. Stir-frying moves quickly, so having everything ready saves time and stress.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you have a smaller pan, cook the chicken in two batches to ensure it browns nicely. Overcrowding cools the pan and steams the chicken.
- Al Dente Noodles: Cook your gluten-free noodles just until they are al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy when you add them back to the wok with the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using regular soy sauce: Always double-check labels to ensure you are using gluten-free Tamari for your recipe.
- Overcooking vegetables: Aim for crisp-tender vegetables. They should still have a slight bite, not be soft and mushy.
- Not draining noodles thoroughly: Excess water from the noodles can dilute your sauce, making it watery instead of thick and glossy.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, & Variations
This Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein is wonderfully versatile, perfect as a complete meal or easily adapted to your preferences.
Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein Serving Suggestions
Serve this flavorful dish piping hot as a satisfying meal on its own. For a complete takeout-style experience, you could pair it with a light side salad or homemade spring rolls. A final garnish of extra fresh green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds both color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
If you have any delicious leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, or warm gently in the microwave until heated through.
Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein Variations
- Protein Swaps: Customize your Lo Mein with other proteins. Try shrimp, thinly sliced beef, or even pan-fried tofu cubes for a plant-based option.
- Extra Vegetables: Load up on more veggies! Sliced mushrooms, snap peas, shredded carrots, or fresh bok choy would all be fantastic additions.
- Spicier Lo Mein: For those who love a kick, increase the amount of chili sauce in the recipe, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during the stir-frying process.
- Sauce Customization: Experiment with your sauce! A dash of fresh grated ginger or a teaspoon of rice vinegar can add an extra layer of zing and brightness.
Nutrition Information
Enjoying this homemade Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein means you get to control the ingredients and savor a healthier meal. Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, based on the ingredients listed:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 345 kcal |
| Carbohydrate Content | 57 g |
| Protein Content | 23 g |
| Fat Content | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1 g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0.01 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 36 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1611 mg |
| Fiber Content | 5 g |
| Sugar Content | 5 g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 2 g |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein recipe is already naturally dairy-free, so no substitutions are needed. It’s perfect for those with dairy sensitivities. - What kind of gluten-free noodles work best?
Gluten-free spaghetti or rice ramen noodles are excellent choices for this dish. They hold up well to stir-frying and absorb the sauce beautifully. - Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?
Absolutely, you can use fresh cabbage! Just finely chop about 2 cups of green cabbage and add it to the stir-fry as instructed. - Is Kikkoman gluten-free oyster sauce truly gluten-free?
Yes, Kikkoman offers a certified gluten-free oyster sauce. Always verify the label to ensure it meets your dietary needs. - How can I reduce the sodium content?
To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and use the reduced-sodium versions of gluten-free Tamari. You can also adjust the amount of Tamari to your preference.
Conclusion
There you have it: a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein that’s perfect for any night of the week. You no longer need to miss out on those beloved takeout flavors; now you can enjoy them guilt-free and from the comfort of your own home. This recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and a fantastic way to bring more joy and confidence into your kitchen. We encourage you to try this recipe tonight and experience the delightful taste for yourself!
Easy Gluten Free Chicken Lo Mein
Equipment
- Large Ziplock bag
- large pot
- Dish
- Large wok or 12” skillet
- Lid
- Plate
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts ~1lb, cut into thin strips
- 1 Tablespoon gluten free reduced-sodium Tamari
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- pinch white pepper
- 8 oz gluten free spaghetti or ramen noodles
- high heat cooking oil
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups coleslaw mix
- 3 green onions chopped
- 2 garlic minced
Lo Mein Sauce
- 1/4 cup gluten free reduced-sodium Tamari
- 3 Tablespoons gluten free oyster sauce Kikkoman brand recommended
- 2 Tablespoons chicken broth low-sodium if possible
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 — 2 teaspoons chili sauce like Siracha
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- pinch white pepper
Instructions
Chicken Preparation
- Combine sliced chicken, tamari, and cornstarch in a Ziplock bag, then refrigerate while preparing other ingredients.
Sauce and Noodles
- Mix all lo mein sauce ingredients in a dish and set aside. Cook gluten-free noodles in boiling water until al dente, then drain.
Stir-Frying Chicken
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet, then stir-fry the marinated chicken until cooked through and set aside on a plate.
Vegetables and Final Toss
- Steam broccoli in the wok for 1 minute with water, then add coleslaw, green onions, garlic, and oil, stir-frying until wilted. Finally, add the cooked chicken, noodles, and sauce, stir-frying for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens; serve hot.