One of my favorite memories in the kitchen has to be those cozy evenings when I’d whip up a batch of Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles. The aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan would drift through the house, drawing my family in like a warm hug. I can still see my kids peeking around the corner, their eyes lighting up at the smell. It’s a simple dish, but it holds so much comfort and joy. Plus, it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet tasty enough to impress on the weekends.
These Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles have become a staple in our home, especially during those chilly months when we crave something hearty and satisfying. The sticky, sweet garlic sauce clings to the noodles and chicken, creating a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a cozy night in with a movie. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love "Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles"
- Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes!
- Minimal ingredients mean less prep and cleanup time.
- Family-friendly, with flavors that even picky eaters will love.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers — perfect for lunch boxes!
- Versatile recipe — you can easily add your favorite veggies.
- Sticky, sweet, and savory sauce that makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (thighs add a little more flavor and juiciness)
- 8 oz ramen or lo mein noodles (you can use whole wheat for a healthier option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic gives the best flavor)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium is a great choice to cut back on salt)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (this adds that sweet, savory depth)
- 2 tablespoons honey (maple syrup can be a tasty substitute)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (don’t skip this; it adds a wonderful nutty aroma)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (this helps thicken the sauce)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes or 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for a spicy kick)
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish and a fresh crunch)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasting them brings out the flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking; can use olive oil if you prefer)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always adjust according to your preference)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Noodles
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This helps season the noodles as they cook.
- Once boiling, add the ramen or lo mein noodles. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes until they’re al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and well blended. This is where the magic happens!
- Make sure there are no lumps from the cornstarch; it should be a nice, glossy mixture. Set the sauce aside while you get the chicken cooking.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough that it shimmers, but not smoking.
- Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown on the bottom.
- Flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re fully cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. A little browning is ideal for flavor!
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn — burnt garlic is not tasty!
Combine and Serve
- Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit.
- Now it’s time to add the noodles! Toss them into the pan and mix everything together gently, ensuring each noodle is coated in that sticky, delicious sauce.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and chili flakes or sriracha if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Serve hot right from the pan, and watch everyone dive in! It’s just too good to resist!
Variations
- Add seasonal veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful twist.
- Substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Try adding a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy kick.
- Switch up the noodles with zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb version.
- Use teriyaki sauce instead of hoisin for a sweet and savory flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving
Serve the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles hot, garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch. Pair it with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. It’s a quick meal that shines on its own!
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Enjoy your tasty creation again!
Helpful Notes
- If you want a gluten-free option, make sure to use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Feel free to add other protein options like beef or shrimp for variety.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Chopped bell peppers or snap peas make great add-ins for extra crunch.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey or using agave syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Yes, you can freeze Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles! Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a bit of water to bring back the sauce's stickiness.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you need a substitute for soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a sweeter, soy-free alternative. Both will give you a similar salty flavor to enhance your dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To spice things up, you can add more chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. If you really love heat, toss in some sliced fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce right before serving to give it an extra kick!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try these Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles as I am to share this recipe with you! It's a dish that's not just about nourishing your body but also about creating those heartwarming moments around the table. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated; it can be fun, delicious, and downright magical. So gather your ingredients, invite your family to help, and dive into this sticky, sweet goodness. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out — trust me, it’s going to be a favorite in your home too!
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Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is a savory dish featuring tender chicken and flavorful noodles coated in a sticky garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz ramen or lo mein noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes or 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add chicken to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the sauce mixture and cook until thickened.
- Toss in cooked noodles and mix well.
- Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili flakes or sriracha.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, Chicken Noodles, Asian Noodles, Garlic Noodles
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