The moment the aroma of garlic and honey starts to fill your kitchen, you know you’re in for something special. I recently found myself looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner option, and that’s when the idea of Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles popped into my head. It’s one of those recipes that, despite its simplicity, manages to deliver big on flavor, leaving you both satisfied and a little bit amazed.
Picture this: tender chicken coated in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked noodles that soak up every last drop. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, but it comes together in just 30 minutes—ideal for those busy weeknights when you want homemade goodness without the fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to swap out takeout for a cozy night in, this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive in and whip up some deliciousness!
Why You'll Love This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- You’ll be amazed by the rich and complex flavors of the sticky garlic sauce that beautifully coats the tender chicken and noodles.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- The stunning presentation, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, makes this dish not only delicious but visually appealing enough to impress your family and friends.
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 lb chicken breast – choose boneless, skinless pieces for quicker cooking and easy slicing.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – adds depth and umami flavor to your chicken.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – helps create a lovely, thick glaze on the chicken.
For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – crucial for sautéing and giving a nice sear to the chicken.
• 4 cloves garlic – fresh garlic delivers a fragrant and flavorful punch in this dish.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – enhances the overall taste of the sticky garlic chicken noodles.
• 2 tablespoons honey – imparts sweetness that balances the savory notes beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – adds a tangy brightness to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – use this for a nutty aroma that rounds out the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional) – adds warmth and a hint of spice to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon water (to thin if necessary) – ensures your sauce is the perfect consistency.
For the Noodles and Garnish
• 8 oz noodles – use your favorite type; egg or rice noodles work beautifully here.
• 2 green onions – slice thinly for garnish and a pop of color.
• Sesame seeds (optional) – sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
-
Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes, infusing the chicken with flavor.
-
Cook the noodles: While the chicken marinates, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Once done, drain them and set aside to keep them warm.
-
Heat the skillet: In a large skillet or wok, add vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering—this will create the perfect sear for your chicken.
-
Sauté the garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden, ensuring not to burn it for the best flavor.
-
Combine the sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger (if using). Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 1–2 minutes until it slightly thickens.
-
Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
-
Toss in the noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated in that delightful sticky sauce. If necessary, thin out the sauce with a tablespoon of water.
-
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot for the best flavors.
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for extra color and nutrients.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Room Temperature: Keep leftover Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After this time, refrigerate to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store the noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to freshen them up.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in freezer-safe portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, add a little water to loosen the sauce, and warm over low to medium heat, ensuring the chicken is heated through.
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Variations
Feel free to swirl in your own creativity and adjust this comforting dish to suit your taste!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version. You won’t miss a beat with this swap!
-
Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in colorful bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli while cooking the chicken. This adds crunch, color, and nutrition, transforming the dish into a vibrant feast!
-
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat. Experience a delightful fusion of flavors that just might become your new favorite twist!
-
Noodle Alternatives: Use zoodles (zucchini noodles) or rice noodles as a fresh, lower-carb option. Each bite brings a unique texture and a refreshing taste to the dish!
-
Honey Substitutes: Try maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan twist. The interchange maintains that sweet-savoury balance, ensuring delicious results!
-
Crispy Topping: Top with fried shallots or crushed peanuts for added crunch. The texture contrast elevates the dish, making each bite even more delightful!
-
Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the dish before serving. This brightens up the flavors, adding a refreshing zest that’s simply irresistible!
-
Nutty Craving: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped cashews on top for a delightful nutty flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful visual appeal.
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance to infuse it with rich flavor. Additionally, you can cook the noodles ahead of time; just refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply heat a skillet, sauté the garlic, add the marinated chicken, and follow the remaining steps to complete the recipe. This way, you get homemade goodness with less time spent in the kitchen, all while preserving that delicious sticky glaze!
What to Serve with Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Elevate your dinner experience with delicious sides and drinks that perfectly complement this sticky, flavorful dish.
-
Steamed Broccoli: A crunchy and vibrant side that adds a fresh element to balance the richness of the noodles.
-
Crispy Spring Rolls: These add a delicious crunch and are perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce, enhancing the meal.
-
Garlic Fried Rice: Infuses more of that irresistible garlic flavor while providing a comforting, filling base to pair with the noodles.
-
Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshingly crisp and tangy, this salad cuts through the sticky sweetness and offers a delightful contrast.
-
Sesame Green Beans: Tender, sautéed green beans drizzled with sesame oil add another layer of flavor and a pop of color to the plate.
-
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Light and refreshing drinks to cleanse the palate and complement the bold flavors of the sticky garlic chicken.
-
Orange Sorbet: For dessert, a light and zesty orange sorbet is the perfect sweet finish to contrast the savory main dish.
Let your family feast on these delightful pairings and make mealtime an exciting adventure!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, ensure the chicken is sliced evenly for quick and uniform cooking.
- Always heat your oil until shimmering before adding ingredients to achieve a nice sear and prevent sticking.
- To maximize flavor, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes, allowing the soy sauce and cornstarch to infuse properly.
- When cooking the garlic, watch closely to avoid burning, which can lead to a bitter taste in your sauce.
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Absolutely, boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal for this recipe. It cooks quickly and remains tender, ensuring a delightful texture in your dish. You could also experiment with thighs if you prefer a juicier cut, but do adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer.
How long can I store leftover Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
No worries here—leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water to refresh the sauce as you heat!
Can I freeze Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Yes! For long-term storage, place portions of Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat on low heat while adding a little water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
That’s an easy fix! If you find your sauce has thickened more than you’d like, simply add a tablespoon of water and stir. Heat it gently until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. When it’s coated nicely over the chicken and noodles, you’re good to go!
Are there any allergy considerations for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Very! This recipe contains soy sauce, which has gluten, so if gluten is a concern, opt for a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Additionally, if anyone has allergies to sesame, it’s best to skip the sesame oil and seeds altogether. Always check labels to ensure the safety of all ingredients.
How can I customize the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for extra flavor?
Absolutely! You can enhance the dish by adding colorful veggies such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the cooking process. Toss them in after you sauté the garlic and let them cook up until tender. This not only adds flavor but also a nice crunch and nutritional boost!
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast boneless, skinless
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger optional
- 1 tablespoon water to thin if necessary
- 8 oz noodles egg or rice noodles
- 2 green onions sliced thinly for garnish
- sesame seeds optional
Method
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes, infusing the chicken with flavor.
- Cook the noodles: While the chicken marinates, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Once done, drain them and set aside to keep them warm.
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet or wok, add vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté the garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden.
- Combine the sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger (if using). Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 1–2 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Toss in the noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated in the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.
Leave a Comment