Easy Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein For Dinner

Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein: A Quick and Flavorful Delight

As a super busy mom I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and convenient. Today, I’m excited to share with you an easy recipe for Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein.

This dish is a perfect blend of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce, all brought together in the convenience of a pressure cooker. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Chinese restaurant favorite, offering a homemade, healthier version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use different types of noodles? A: Absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional, you can use spaghetti noodles, rice noodles, or even ramen noodles for a quick and easy substitute.

Q: Can I make this with other proteins? A: Yes, chicken thighs, beef strips, or even tofu can be used in place of chicken breasts. The cooking time may vary slightly.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? A: Definitely. This Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein keeps well in an airtight container and can be a great option for next-day lunches.

Tips and Tricks

• Quick Release of the Pressure: To keep the noodles from overcooking, use the quick release function of your Instant Pot after the cook time is up.
• Layering Ingredients: To avoid the ‘Burn’ notice, place liquids at the bottom of the pot and layer the chicken and vegetables on top of the noodles.
• Al Dente Noodles: For perfectly cooked noodles, cook them just until al dente. They will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.

Variations

• Vegetable Options: Feel free to add snow peas, bell peppers, or even bamboo shoots for lots of veggies.
• Sauce Variations: Experiment with oyster sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a tbsp of hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of sriracha for a spicy kick.

Where to Serve

This Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a special treat during a cozy movie night at home. It’s a versatile dish that fits well in both casual and semi-formal settings.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth to loosen the noodles if needed.

Ingredients

• Sliced Chicken Breast
• Matchstick Carrots
• Red Pepper
• Garlic
• Soy Sauce
• Brown Sugar
• Chicken Stock
• Lo Mein Noodles or Ramen Noodles
• Optional: Sesame Seeds, Baby Corn

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

• Noodles Sticking Together: To prevent this, stir the noodles gently after adding them to the pot and ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
• Undercooked Vegetables: Cut your vegetables in a uniform size to ensure even cooking. Adding them on top of the noodles helps them steam perfectly.
• Overcooked Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken by cutting it into even, bite-sized pieces and not extending the cooking time.

Tips for Making This Recipe with Kids

• Safe Tasks: Let them help with safe tasks like measuring the soy sauce or mixing the sauce in a small bowl.
• Vegetable Prep: Kids can help wash the vegetables or even help with cutting if they’re old enough and supervised.
• Assembling the Dish: Kids love layering the ingredients in the Instant Pot, a great way to get them involved in cooking.

Topping Options

• Sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for added flavor and crunch.
• Add a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra zing.

Why This Recipe Works

This Instant Pot Chicken Lo Mein recipe is a fantastic one-pot meal that combines simple ingredients with a savory Asian sauce, resulting in a delicious dish that rivals takeout chicken lo mein. The pressure cooking method ensures juicy chicken and perfectly cooked noodles, while the layering technique prevents the dreaded ‘Burn’ notice.

It’s an easy dump-and-go recipe, ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving Chinese food but want a healthier, homemade option. Plus, it’s a versatile dish, allowing for lots of veggies and protein variations, making it a hit with the whole family.

Here are some more amazing Instant Pot recipes:

• Instant Pot Garlic and Cheese Grits
• Instant Pot Thai Noodles
• Easy Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Wings Recipe
• Amazing Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Soup