Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp brings together the heat of chili oil, tender noodles, and juicy chicken breast in one fast and flavorful dish. It’s the kind of recipe you can make after a long day without sacrificing taste or variety. If you enjoy bold chicken pasta dishes and love trying new pasta recipes for dinner, this is one to bookmark.
The lo mein base is easy to adapt, and chili crisp adds complexity with its layers of garlic, shallots, and spices. Whether you’re serving two or a family of five, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp is the perfect example of how a quick meal doesn’t have to be boring. From the chewy noodles to the savory-spicy sauce, everything comes together effortlessly with pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate
- Uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens
- Bold chili crisp flavor without overwhelming heat
- Customizable for different veggies or protein preferences
- Perfect balance of comfort and spice for easy weeknight dinners
This recipe also offers a great way to use up leftover vegetables or cooked chicken. Plus, the flavors only improve if you let them sit, making it ideal for meal prep. If you love recipes like sesame noodles or saucy stir-fry pasta, this one is going to be a new favorite.
Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp
Here’s everything you need to bring this spicy chicken lo mein to life. Try to use fresh ingredients and quality chili crisp for the best results. It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that feels a little elevated just by combining great texture and flavor.
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking chicken)
- 2 tbsp chili crisp (plus extra for serving)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for brightness)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Colorful vegetables make this dish pop on the plate, and fresh garlic and ginger boost the flavor of the sauce naturally. Chili crisp brands vary in heat, so adjust based on your spice preference.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp
This spicy chicken pasta dish is made in one large skillet or wok, and it all comes together quickly. Have everything prepped and ready before cooking.
- Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss in a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the chicken. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Cook aromatics and veggies. In the same skillet, add garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onions. Cook 30 seconds. Then add bell pepper and carrots. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Mix the sauce. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili crisp. Pour into the skillet with veggies. Stir well to coat.
- Combine and finish. Add cooked noodles and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together. If using cornstarch slurry, stir it in and cook for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Garnish with green onion tops and sesame seeds. Add an extra spoon of chili crisp for those who love it hot.
How to Serve Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp
This spicy chicken lo mein is perfect as a main course, but it can also be paired with a few simple sides to make a full meal. Here are some great ways to enjoy and present it.
- Serve it hot in shallow bowls for easy eating
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for color
- Add a wedge of lime for brightness
- Pair with steamed broccoli or bok choy
- Enjoy with a light cucumber salad for a cooling contrast
For those looking for a creamy alternative, check out this One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It’s also great for nights when you’re craving comforting chicken pasta dishes with minimal cleanup.
Customize Your Chicken Lo Mein Recipe
Spicy Chicken Lo Mein is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for adapting to what you have on hand or to suit dietary preferences. Here are some easy swaps and ideas.
- Protein swap: Use shrimp, sliced beef, or tofu instead of chicken
- Add greens: Mix in spinach, kale, or bok choy toward the end of cooking
- Spice level: Use half the chili crisp or add sriracha for a different heat profile
- Low-carb version: Replace noodles with spiralized zucchini or cabbage
- Sauce twist: Add a splash of hoisin for sweetness or tamari for gluten-free
You can even add a spoonful of peanut butter for a nutty depth to the sauce. Try combining ideas until you find the perfect version for your table. For another bold twist on comfort food, see this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Store and Reheat Spicy Chicken Lo Mein
Spicy lo mein holds up well in the fridge and is easy to reheat for lunch or dinner the next day. The sauce may thicken, but a quick fix brings it back to life.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until warmed through.
Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through and add a little moisture if the noodles feel dry.
Want a creamy, cheesy version of pasta that also reheats like a dream? Try this Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Lasagna Recipe.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Lo Mein
To make your spicy chicken lo mein with chili crisp restaurant-quality, keep these tips in mind. Little tweaks in timing and preparation can make a big difference.
- Cook noodles just until al dente and rinse to stop cooking
- Slice chicken thinly for even, quick cooking
- Have all your ingredients prepped before cooking begins
- Stir-fry over medium-high heat to keep veggies crisp
- Don’t add chili crisp too early or it may lose texture
Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end. A drizzle of soy sauce or a splash of vinegar can balance the final flavor beautifully. If you love making dinner in under 30 minutes, you’ll enjoy these Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipes.
Avoid These Mistakes When Making Chicken Lo Mein
Making lo mein is simple, but there are common errors that can affect the final taste and texture. Here’s what to watch out for.
- Overcooking noodles makes them mushy and prone to breaking
- Skipping the prep slows you down during fast stir-fry steps
- Adding sauce too early causes veggies to steam instead of stir-fry
- Using cold oil results in sticking or uneven browning
- Neglecting seasoning may lead to bland noodles despite the chili crisp
Keep ingredients moving in the pan and don’t walk away. A little attention during cooking keeps everything fresh and flavorful.
Final Thoughts on Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp
This spicy chicken lo mein with chili crisp is one of the most satisfying pasta recipes for dinner you can make in under 30 minutes. It’s bold, colorful, and full of texture. Whether you’re new to chili crisp or a seasoned fan, this dish is an easy way to bring big flavor to your dinner table.
Don’t forget to pin and share this spicy noodle recipe with your favorite home cooks.
FAQs About Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp
What noodles work best for spicy chicken lo mein with chili crisp?
Lo mein noodles are ideal, but spaghetti, linguine, or even udon can work well. For gluten-free options, rice noodles or soba are great choices that also soak up the chili crisp beautifully.
Can I make this spicy chicken lo mein less spicy?
Yes, you can reduce the heat by using only 1 tablespoon of chili crisp or opting for a milder brand. Balancing it with a teaspoon of honey or hoisin sauce helps mellow the flavor without sacrificing taste.
Is this chicken breast dinner idea good for meal prep?
Absolutely. This lo mein stores well for up to 3 days and reheats quickly. Keep the noodles and chicken slightly undercooked if you plan to reheat, to preserve the texture.
What are the best vegetables to use in this spicy pasta recipe?
Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and broccoli all hold up well in stir-fry cooking. For a colorful plate, mix red and green bell peppers or add a handful of baby spinach at the end.
Can I make this spicy chicken lo mein with pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken can work. Just slice or shred and add it after the veggies are cooked. Since it’s already cooked, avoid over-stirring to keep it tender.
PrintSpicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Bold and flavorful, this Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes with juicy chicken, chewy noodles, and a savory-spicy sauce.
Ingredients
8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp chili crisp (plus extra for serving)
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
3 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional)
Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
1. Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss in sesame oil.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet. Sauté chicken until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onion to skillet. Cook for 30 seconds. Add bell pepper and carrots. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
4. Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili crisp in a bowl. Pour over vegetables. Stir to coat.
5. Return chicken and noodles to skillet. Toss everything together. Add cornstarch slurry if using. Cook 1–2 more minutes.
6. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and extra chili crisp if desired.
Notes
Use any chili crisp brand you enjoy. Adjust amount based on spice tolerance.
For extra protein, add scrambled eggs or tofu.
Swap veggies with what you have on hand like snow peas, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Spicy Chicken Lo Mein with Chili Crisp, Easy Weeknight Dinners, Chicken Pasta Dishes, Quick Dinner Ideas

