Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies

Enjoy a flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies recipe that’s easy, healthy, and perfect for a quick, delicious meal! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles all slow-cooked to meld rich Asian-inspired flavors effortlessly. Whether you’re new to slow cooker meals or simply craving a tasty, wholesome dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes for convenience, nutrition, and satisfying taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking: Set it and forget it with the slow cooker doing all the work while you go about your day.
• Healthy and balanced: Loaded with fresh veggies, lean protein, and whole grain noodles for a nutritious meal.
• Family-friendly flavors: Classic soy-based sauce pleases kids and adults alike, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup since noodles, chicken, and veggies all cook together in one slow cooker.
• Flexible ingredients: Easy to customize with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies brings something special — whether it’s crunch, color, or that signature savory flavor that makes lo mein so beloved. These simple staples work together perfectly to create a well-rounded dish bursting with texture and taste.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Use boneless, skinless for tender protein that shreds easily during cooking.
• Lo mein noodles: Traditional wheat noodles that soak up flavors beautifully without getting mushy.
• Bell peppers: Add sweetness and vibrant color, boosting nutrition and crunch.
• Carrots: Provide a mild sweetness and dense texture that balances the dish.
• Snow peas or snap peas: Fresh, crisp veggies for a burst of green and natural sweetness.
• Soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone that ties all the flavors together.
• Sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic and ginger: Essential aromatics that bring warmth and depth to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses an extra layer of savory goodness.

Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to play around with different ingredients or seasonings to make it your own. Whether you need to accommodate dietary preferences or just want to experiment with flavors, the slow cooker method easily adapts.

• Swap chicken for beef or tofu: Use thinly sliced steak or firm tofu for a vegan-friendly protein alternative.
• Add more veggies: Mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini all blend seamlessly into the mix.
• Spicy twist: Toss in chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer a bit of heat and extra kick.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce and use gluten-free noodles.
• Thicker sauce: Mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir in near the end for a richer, glossy finish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Veggies

Trim and cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin strips. Chop bell peppers, carrots, and peas into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Combine Aromatics and Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. This flavorful sauce will infuse the chicken and veggies throughout the slow cooking process.

Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with chopped veggies, then pour the prepared sauce evenly over everything.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. This gentle heat tenderizes the chicken and allows veggies to become tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Add Noodles

About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the lo mein noodles. They will absorb flavors and finish cooking right in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Final Stir and Serve

Once noodles are tender and sauce has thickened slightly, give everything a good stir to combine fully. Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve warm.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies

• Pat chicken dry: Helps the meat brown slightly before slow cooking if you opt to sear it first for extra flavor.
• Don’t overcook noodles: Add them near the end to prevent mushiness and maintain that perfect lo mein texture.
• Use fresh veggies: They hold texture better during slow cooking and keep the dish vibrant.
• Layer thoughtfully: Put denser veggies closer to the bottom for even cooking.
• Taste before serving: Add more soy or sesame oil if the sauce needs a flavor boost after cooking.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies

Garnishes

Top your lo mein with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and fresh flavor right before serving.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside simple steamed rice, a light Asian cucumber salad, or even crispy spring rolls to round out the meal without overwhelming the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual bowls garnished with lime wedges for a citrusy twist, or plate on a large platter for easy family-style sharing at the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly reheat without drying out the chicken or noodles.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, but fresh vegetables tend to hold their texture better during slow cooking. If using frozen, add them later to avoid sogginess.

What type of noodles work best for lo mein?

Traditional wheat-based lo mein noodles or thin egg noodles are best as they absorb sauce well and maintain a pleasant bite.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

No, searing is optional. It adds depth of flavor but slow cooking alone will yield tender, juicy chicken.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and substitute with gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or shirataki noodles.

Can I prep this dish entirely the night before?

Yes! Assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight before cooking in the morning.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Lo Mein with Veggies is a comforting, flavorful meal that fits any busy lifestyle while keeping nutrition front and center. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this recipe quickly becomes a weeknight favorite you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and watch your family savor every delicious bite!

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