Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors with a hint of spice — perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy workweek when I needed something fast yet satisfying. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels gourmet without extensive time spent in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic way to please the whole family or impress guests without breaking a sweat.
Reasons to Try It
There are numerous reasons to whip up Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles tonight. First off, it’s an incredibly quick recipe, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it perfect for those hectic days when you still want a home-cooked meal without the hassle. Budget-friendly ingredients ensure you don’t have to spend a fortune. Plus, who can resist the combination of chicken coated in a sticky garlic sauce tossed with noodles?
"This dish was a hit at our dinner table! The balance of flavors is perfect, and it took no time at all to prepare. My kids are already asking for it again!"
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is a straightforward process. It starts with creating a delicious sauce that brings the dish to life. Then, you’ll toss the chicken in cornstarch before cooking it to perfection. The noodles cook simultaneously, making for a seamless cooking experience. Finally, everything gets tossed together for a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
What You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to success. Here’s what you’ll need for this scrumptious dish:
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian twist or switch up the noodles based on your preference!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes to create a flavorful sauce.
- Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, coating them evenly for a nice crunch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, stirring well to coat. Allow it to simmer until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
- While the sauce thickens, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the chicken and sauce in the skillet, tossing everything to meld the flavors.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles can be as simple or as fancy as you wish. Plate it beautifully in a bowl, and sprinkle with additional green onions and sesame seeds for that restaurant-quality touch. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or some stir-fried vegetables for added color and crunch.
How to Store & Freeze
Leftovers? No problem! You can store Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. If you’re planning to freeze it, keep in mind that noodles may soften after thawing, but the flavors will still be delightful.
Pro Chef Tips
- For added depth, marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch coating; it helps lock in moisture and adds a delightful crunch.
- For a more substantial meal, toss in some bell peppers or snap peas to the stir-fry.
Creative Twists
Looking to mix things up? Try adding cooked shrimp or beef for a different protein. You can also switch out the honey for maple syrup for a unique sweet twist. Want a creamier sauce? Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for added richness.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
A: The entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken for something else?
A: Absolutely! Tofu, shrimp, or even beef are great alternatives.
Q: How do I store leftovers safely?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat thoroughly before consuming.
No matter the occasion, Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With a delightful balance of flavors and quick prep, this dish is destined to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire!
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch For coating the chicken
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil For cooking
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey Can substitute with maple syrup for a unique twist
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes Optional for added spice
For the Noodles
- 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles)
For Garnish
- 2 pcs green onions, chopped For garnishing
- 1 tsp sesame seeds Optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes to create a flavorful sauce.
- Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, coating them evenly for a nice crunch.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, stirring well to coat. Allow it to simmer until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
- While the sauce thickens, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the chicken and sauce in the skillet, tossing everything to meld the flavors.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
