If you’ve been craving a flavor-packed, comforting meal that never fails to impress, then this Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein with Steamed Jasmine Rice Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken strips glazed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked lo mein noodles and vibrant veggies, all served alongside fluffy, fragrant jasmine rice. It’s that brilliant combination of savory, sweet, and a hint of warmth from the pepper that makes every bite irresistible. This dish comes together in under an hour and brings that restaurant-quality vibe right into your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role, blending flavors, textures, and colors to create a dish that feels both wholesome and exciting. From the fragrant jasmine rice to the crisp broccoli and sweet bell pepper, each element is essential for that balanced bite.
- Boneless chicken breasts: Provides tender protein that soaks up the honey pepper sauce beautifully.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and creates a glossy finish on the chicken and noodles.
- Soy sauce: Brings that savory, umami depth to the sauce.
- Rice vinegar: Offers a gentle tang that brightens the entire dish.
- Sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that makes the dish special.
- Olive oil: Perfect for cooking the chicken evenly without overpowering flavors.
- Crushed black pepper: Adds the signature spice and heat that make this dish pop.
- Garlic and fresh ginger: These aromatics deepen the flavor base with a fragrant kick.
- Lo mein noodles: The perfect noodle texture to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Broccoli florets and sliced bell pepper: Fresh veggies that add crunch, color, and nutrition.
- Green onions: For a burst of freshness and mild onion flavor at the end.
- Sesame seeds: Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal as a garnish.
- Jasmine rice: Soft, fragrant, and the perfect base to balance the flavorful lo mein.
- Butter and salt: Enhance the richness and seasoning of the steamed rice.
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein with Steamed Jasmine Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Steamed Jasmine Rice
Start with the jasmine rice because it needs to simmer and then rest. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt for seasoning. Stir in the jasmine rice, then immediately lower the heat so it gently simmers. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed. Once done, take it off the heat and fluff with a fork, mixing in a tablespoon of butter for that silky texture and extra flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Heat olive oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then add the chicken strips. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes until they are nicely browned and cooked through, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, keeping all those delicious browned bits in the pan.
Step 3: Build the Sauce and Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add sesame oil followed by minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking for just about 30 seconds each until fragrant—this step is where the magic really starts to happen. Then pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey, stirring to create a perfectly balanced sauce. Don’t forget to add the crushed black pepper—it’s the star spice that gives this dish its lively kick.
Step 4: Cook the Lo Mein Noodles and Vegetables
Add the lo mein noodles directly to the skillet and start tossing them in the sauce. If they feel dry, a small splash of water will help loosen things up. Meanwhile, boil the broccoli florets until tender and vibrantly green, then drain. Return to the skillet and add the cooked chicken, broccoli, and bell pepper slices, cooking everything together for a few more minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
After removing the skillet from heat, stir in chopped green onions for freshness, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top as a final touch. This not only adds texture but also a pop of visual appeal that makes every serving feel extra special.
How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein with Steamed Jasmine Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped green onions and sesame seeds as garnishes gives this dish a fresh, crunchy boost that contrasts perfectly with the tender noodles and chicken. These small touches elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This meal is hearty on its own, but a simple side of steamed dumplings or a crisp Asian cucumber salad pairs beautifully. The lighter sides balance the richness of the honey pepper sauce and keep the meal feeling complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the lo mein atop a neat mound of steamed jasmine rice on each plate or in individual bowls for a more casual, family-style experience. For a fun twist, try wrapping the chicken and veggies in lettuce leaves for a hands-on version of the dish that kids and adults will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein with Steamed Jasmine Rice Recipe stores wonderfully in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a good option. Store the lo mein and chicken separately from the rice in freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain texture. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the rice with a splash of water to keep it fluffy, and microwave or sauté the lo mein and chicken until warmed through. Stir often for an even heat and to refresh that sauce glaze on the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles besides lo mein?
Absolutely! If lo mein noodles aren’t available, spaghetti or linguine can be great substitutes. Just cook them according to package instructions and toss them with the sauce just as you would the lo mein.
How spicy is the Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein with Steamed Jasmine Rice Recipe?
This dish has a gentle heat level thanks to the crushed black pepper. If you want more spice, feel free to add some chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and double-check that your lo mein noodles are made from gluten-free ingredients or substitute with rice noodles.
Can I prep ingredients ahead of time?
Definitely! You can chop vegetables and slice the chicken a day ahead to save time. Just store everything in airtight containers and assemble the dish when you’re ready to cook.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Cooking the chicken in strips over medium-high heat helps it brown quickly without drying out. Avoid overcooking by keeping an attentive eye and removing it from the skillet once done.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so incredibly satisfying about this Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein with Steamed Jasmine Rice Recipe. It’s got all the right vibes—a juicy, flavorful protein, hearty noodles, crisp veggies, and that enchanting honey pepper punch. If you’re looking to wow your taste buds and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas, give this recipe a try. Once you do, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home cooking rotation.
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Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein with Steamed Jasmine Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A flavorful and hearty Honey Pepper Chicken Lo Mein served alongside perfectly steamed jasmine rice. This dish combines tender chicken breast strips cooked with a sweet and tangy honey pepper sauce, crisp vegetables, and traditional lo mein noodles, creating a balanced and delicious Asian-inspired meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon crushed black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
For the Noodles and Vegetables
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
For the Steamed Jasmine Rice
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Jasmine Rice: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add 4 cups of water. Once it boils, stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Cook the Rice: Add 2 cups jasmine rice to the pot, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
- Finish the Rice: Remove the pot from heat, add 1 tablespoon butter, and fluff the rice with a fork to keep it light and fluffy.
- Cook Chicken: While rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon sesame oil and minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add grated ginger and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Make Sauce: Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Stir in crushed black pepper and combine thoroughly.
- Cook Noodles: Add lo mein noodles to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly in the sauce. Add a splash of water if the noodles appear dry. Toss for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Steam Broccoli: Meanwhile, bring a separate pot of water to a boil and cook broccoli florets for about 3 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Return cooked chicken to the skillet with noodles. Add steamed broccoli and sliced bell pepper, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
- Heat Through: Continue cooking the mixture for another 2-3 minutes to warm the vegetables and let flavors meld.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove skillet from heat and stir in chopped green onions. Serve by dividing jasmine rice onto plates and topping with the honey pepper chicken lo mein mixture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option.
- If lo mein noodles are unavailable, spaghetti or linguine can serve as a substitute.
- Adjust crushed black pepper quantity based on your heat preference.
- Adding a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce can enhance umami flavor if desired.
- Leftover rice can be refrigerated and used within 2 days for best freshness.
