If you’re someone who loves comforting, savory noodles that take minutes, and are better than takeout, you can easily make “Quick and Flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein” at home without even ordering it.
Quick and Flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein : Better Than Takeout
This instant pot chicken lo mein is easy to make at home, faster than ordering it. It’s packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich umami sauce. This recipe brings authentic Asian flavor to your kitchen with very little effort.
This article is explained in a very simple way for Americans, with step-by-step instructions, using all the common ingredients you can find at the store. If you’re an experienced home cook, you’ll get restaurant-quality results every time with this easy method.
Why Do You Love Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein?
- This quick and flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein is quick and super easy.
- Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- One-pot meal, more convenience and less cleanup.
- Customizable, you can substitute your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Better than takeout, it’s so delicious, fresh, and healthy.
All the ingredients you need:
Ingredients for the chicken and noodles:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 pound boneless, skinless, thinly sliced chicken breast
Some vegetables:
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
Ingredients for the sauce:
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
All the kitchen essentials:
- Cutting board and knife
- Instant pot
- Spatula or tongs
Full instructions on how to make quick and flavorful instant pot chicken lo mein:
1. Preparing the Ingredients
- First, cut the chicken into thin strips and chop all the vegetables.
- Measure out the ingredients for your sauce.
- Having everything ready makes the cooking process much easier and faster.
2. Sautéing the Chicken
- Now use the Instant Pot on sauté mode.
- Set it to sauté mode.
- Add vegetable oil and heat it.
- Once hot, add the chicken slices.
- Cook until lightly browned.
- Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Cooking the Aromatics
- Reuse the same pot.
- Add ginger and garlic.
- Saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- This step creates a strong flavor base.
4. Adding the liquid and noodles
- Now add the chicken broth.
- Scrap the bottom of the pot thoroughly to deglaze.
- Now break up the noodles and add them to the pot.
- Be careful not to over-stir – this prevents sticking.
5. Pressure Cook
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Continue cooking on Manual/Pressure Cook (High) for about 4 minutes.
- Once cooked thoroughly, turn to Quick Result.
6. Add the Sauce and Vegetables
- Open the lid and then:
- Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, hoisin, and brown sugar.
- Mix everything thoroughly.
- Return the cooked chicken and stir in the vegetables.
7. Final Mixing
- Return to sauté mode and continue cooking for 3 minutes.
- Thicken the sauce.
- Make sure the vegetables are soft but crisp.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Top with green onions.
- Quick and flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein is ready. Enjoy.
Lo Mein Tips:
- Never overcook the noodles: Keep them at pressure for 4 minutes.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce, which doesn’t create an overly salty taste.
- Add a cornstarch slurry: If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and water.
- Add vegetables of your choice: Broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms work well.
Try these variations:
To make this quick and flavorful instant pot chicken lo mein even more exciting, try these options.
For Spicy Chicken Lo Mein:
Add:
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce and
red pepper flakes
For Vegetarian Lo Mein:
Omit the chicken:
You can add tofu or extra vegetables.
For Shrimp Lo Mein:
Substitute shrimp for the chicken.
Cook the shrimp separately and add it at the end.
Nutrition Per Serving
- Protein: 25g
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 45g
Storage and Reheating Tips:
If you store this quick and flavorful instant pot chicken lo mein properly, you can enjoy it for a long time.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave or sauté with a little water.
- Freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the noodles will become soggy.
Serving Suggestion:
- Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein can be enjoyed with:
- Hot and sour soup
- Egg rolls
- It’s delicious with steamed dumplings.
FAQ
Quick and flavorful instant pot chicken lo mein, answers to questions you might have about making it, so you can fix mistakes.
Q. How can I prevent the noodles from sticking?
You should layer the noodles evenly before pressure cooking and then avoid stirring.
Q. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, use these ingredients:
Rice noodles and protein-free soy sauce
Q. Can I use spaghetti instead of lo mein noodles?
Absolutely! Spaghetti works perfectly and is very easy for Americans to find.
Q. What should I do if I see burn marks?
First, make sure you’ve thoroughly deglazed your pot.
You can add more liquid if needed.
Q. Can I double the instant pot chicken lo mein?
Absolutely! But make sure your instant pot isn’t too full.
Q. Can I meal prep it?
Yes! It’s perfect for lunch boxes and perfect for reheating.
Final Thoughts
Quick and flavorful, instant pot chicken lo mein is a game changer for busy days. It’s a much faster, tastier, and more satisfying recipe. It’s made with everything in just one pot, perfect for those who want to make a much-loved takeout dish at home.
It’s healthy and inexpensive. Whether you’re cooking for the family or making a filling meal for the week, this recipe delivers delicious results every time and never disappoints.