The sizzling sound of chicken hitting the hot skillet immediately transports me to my favorite Asian bistro, but the best part? I can whip up these High-Protein Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles right in my own kitchen! With each bite, you’ll experience tender chicken enveloped in a mouthwatering, sweet-savory glaze that rivals any takeout. What I love most about this dish is how it packs a whopping 28 grams of protein per serving and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights! Plus, it’s easily customized for gluten-free diets with tamari and gluten-free noodles. So, why not elevate your dinner game? Ready to discover how to make this scrumptious dish tonight?
Why make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Easy Preparation: This recipe is quick and simple, allowing even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen.
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a sauce that’s irresistibly delicious.
High Protein Boost: With 28 grams of protein per serving, it’s a nourishing choice for health-conscious eaters.
Versatile Options: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs! You can explore even more variations with delicious gluten-free options using tamari and gluten-free noodles.
Dinner in a Flash: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes. It’s an ideal alternative to takeout that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish will impress your guests and feed their cravings. Take a look at these Alternative Thanksgiving Meals for more crowd-pleasing ideas!
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Ingredients
Prepare to delight your taste buds with this recipe’s straightforward ingredient list!
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast or Thighs – 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces; thighs yield extra juiciness in your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – 1/4 cup, or use tamari for a gluten-free option; adds rich umami flavor.
• Honey – 3 tablespoons, raw or mild-flavored; sweetness perfectly balances the sauce’s saltiness.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; an aromatic base that elevates the dish’s flavor.
• Ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated; adds a warm spice notes; opt for fresh for the best results.
• Red Chili Flakes – 1/2 teaspoon, optional; introduces just the right amount of heat to kick up the flavor!
For the Chicken Coating
• Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons; ensures a crispy texture while thickening the sauce.
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil – 2 tablespoons; essential for frying the chicken and achieving that luscious golden crust.
For the Noodles
• Rice Noodles or Egg Noodles – 8 oz; acts as the carbohydrate base, soaking up all that sticky glaze.
For Garnish
• Green Onions – 2, chopped; a fresh garnish that enhances both aroma and color.
• Sesame Seeds – 1 teaspoon, optional; adds a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
Now, get ready to savor the wonderful flavors and textures of your homemade Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your 8 oz of rice or egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 6-8 minutes, until they reach the al dente stage. Once done, drain the noodles in a colander and drizzle with a bit of vegetable oil to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, take 1 lb of chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, and coat them evenly with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This step will ensure your chicken will have a crispy exterior. Set the coated chicken aside while you heat up the skillet.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic (4 cloves) and grated ginger (1 teaspoon). Sauté for about 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and golden. The aroma of garlic and ginger will fill your kitchen, enhancing the flavor for your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles!
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Pour in 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 3 tablespoons of honey, stirring until well combined. If you prefer a touch of warmth, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly and meld the flavors together beautifully.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Noodles
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sticky sauce until well coated. Then, gently add the drained noodles, mixing everything together until heated through, about 1 minute. The noodles will soak up the delicious sauce, integrating all those flavorful elements into a cohesive dish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, serve your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles hot from the skillet. Garnish each serving with chopped green onions (2), adding a pop of color and freshness. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra nutty crunch. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Expert Tips for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
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Choosing Chicken Wisely: Opt for chicken thighs for a juicier result; chicken breasts will work but may be less moist.
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Perfectly Cooked Noodles: Be cautious not to overcook the noodles; they should be al dente to hold up in the sauce and maintain texture.
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Crispy Chicken: Sear chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will help achieve that desirable golden crust on each piece.
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Thickening Sauce: For a richer sauce, dissolve cornstarch in a little cold water first before adding it to the hot sauce mixture.
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Storing Leftovers: Keep noodles and sauce separate when storing; this prevents the noodles from becoming soggy. Enjoy your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles fresh for the best flavor!
Storage Tips for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
- Room Temperature: It’s best to serve your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles hot and fresh. If anything remains, don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours to ensure safety.
- Fridge: Store leftovers by keeping the chicken with sauce and noodles in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the noodles’ texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly from frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Enjoy the flavors again!
What to Serve with Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides and accompaniments that perfectly complement the bold flavors of this dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant and crunchy side that adds freshness, perfectly balancing the richness of the sticky sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this salad provides a light contrast to the savory noodles, enhancing every bite.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: These classic appetizers offer a satisfying crunch, filled with vegetables or meat, and pair beautifully with the chicken noodles.
- Sesame Roasted Green Beans: Tossed with sesame oil and seeds, these beans bring a nutty flavor that harmonizes with the sesame notes in the dish.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Tender and slightly sweet, it acts as a nutritious side, enhancing the Asian-inspired essence of your meal.
- Chili Lime Quinoa: A zesty, protein-rich side that echoes the flavors of the noodles while bringing in a hint of brightness.
- Ginger-Lemon Tea: To wash it all down, a warm cup of this invigorating tea aids digestion and adds a soothing finish to your meal.
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Variations
Feel free to mix and match flavors and ingredients to make this dish your own; your taste buds will thank you!
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Tofu Option: Swap chicken for 1 lb of firm tofu, cubed, to create a delightful vegetarian alternative.
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Shrimp Twist: Use 1 lb of shrimp for a seafood version that cooks quickly and bursts with flavor in every bite.
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Gluten-Free Noodles: Substitute rice noodles with gluten-free options or zoodles for a lower-carb twist while still enjoying that sticky goodness.
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Sweetener Swap: For a different sweetness profile, replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a unique twist on flavor.
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Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a refreshing crunch and a boost of nutrients in your noodles.
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Heat Level: If you like heat, double the red chili flakes or add sliced fresh chili for a spicy kick that cuts through the sweetness.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some crushed peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch and a nutty finish to your sticky dish.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair these delicious noodles with lighter sides like a refreshing cucumber salad or crispy egg rolls, perfect for balancing out the richness. If you’re exploring crowd-pleasers, check out these Alternative Thanksgiving Meals for more ideas!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights so much easier! You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger mixture up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavor. Additionally, cook and refrigerate the noodles for up to 3 days; simply toss them in a bit of oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat a skillet, add the marinated chicken, and proceed with sautéing until fully cooked, then toss in the noodles for a quick, restaurant-quality meal. This approach will save time but ensure your chicken remains juicy and your noodles perfectly textured!
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For juicy Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, I recommend using chicken thighs over breasts. The thighs have more fat, resulting in a more succulent product. Look for pieces that are pink and firm, avoiding any that have dark spots or an off smell, which could indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
To keep your dish fresh, store the chicken with sauce and noodles in separate airtight containers. This method prevents the noodles from becoming mushy. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they are cooled before sealing tightly!
Can I freeze Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap the container in foil or a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, possibly adding a splash of water to revive the sauce’s consistency.
What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
Very good question! If your sauce hasn’t thickened as you hoped, you can easily remedy this. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until dissolved, then stir this mixture into the simmering sauce. Allow it to cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly until it reaches your desired thickness. This technique will give you a perfectly sticky consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, indeed! If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles. Additionally, you can adapt this recipe for vegetarians by substituting chicken with tofu or shrimp. That way, everyone can savor the delicious flavors of these Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles!
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles That'll Up Your Weeknight Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your 8 oz of rice or egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 6-8 minutes, until they reach the al dente stage. Once done, drain the noodles in a colander and drizzle with a bit of vegetable oil to prevent them from sticking together.
- While the noodles are cooking, take 1 lb of chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, and coat them evenly with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This step will ensure your chicken will have a crispy exterior. Set the coated chicken aside while you heat up the skillet.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic (4 cloves) and grated ginger (1 teaspoon). Sauté for about 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and golden.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 3 tablespoons of honey, stirring until well combined. If you prefer a touch of warmth, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sticky sauce until well coated. Then, gently add the drained noodles, mixing everything together until heated through, about 1 minute.
- Finally, serve your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles hot from the skillet. Garnish each serving with chopped green onions (2), adding a pop of color and freshness. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra nutty crunch.
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