Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner. Oh, friends, are you hungry? Because I sure am, and I have just the thing to conquer those hunger pangs: Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner! This recipe is super close to my heart because it's what I used to whip up in college when I was completely broke and needed something comforting and quick. Now, it's a family favorite, regularly requested on busy weeknights. It's impossible to resist sweet, savory, and oh so satisfying noodle bowls and your family is going to love this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner.
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Why You Will Love This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
What is there not to love about this dish? Seriously! I'm talking seriously addictive flavors. The savory garlic sauce is the star, clinging lovingly to tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles. More importantly, it’s all made in under 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver after a long day.
Remember those nights when all you wanted was a big, comforting bowl of noodles? Well, this recipe delivers that and more. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) are amazing the next day. It's pure weeknight dinner magic.
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Ingredients Needed for This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
- For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces egg noodles (or your favorite type of noodles)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
- For the Sticky Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
How to Make This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, cornstarch, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly. This helps tenderize the chicken and create a nice sear.
- Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Set aside. Make sure you don't overcook the noodles; they should be al dente.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). For an extra layer of flavor use Garlic Butter Chicken.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened, about 1 2 minutes. This gives the sauce that beautiful, sticky consistency.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat with the sticky garlic sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy every single bite! If you're looking for another quick and delicious chicken recipe, check out these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders.
How to Serve This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
These Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner are fantastic on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your bowl. You could add a side of steamed broccoli or edamame for some extra greens.
For a spicier kick, drizzle with sriracha or chili garlic sauce. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds a delightful crunch. Serve alongside a simple cucumber salad to counter the richness of the noodles. You could even use these Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles bowls!
How to Store This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Store any leftover Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 4 days.
For freezing, allow the noodles to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, microwave the noodles in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
Tips to Make This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor. You can also substitute the egg noodles with rice noodles or spaghetti. For a gluten free option, use gluten free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Success Tips: Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook it in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly. Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking; this dish comes together quickly!
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Burning the garlic is a common mistake. Keep a close eye on it and reduce the heat if needed. Overcooking the noodles can result in a mushy dish, so cook them al dente.
- Pro Tips for Best Results: Taste and adjust the sauce as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey. If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes.
Helpful Notes for This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
If you don't have rice vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Honey can be swapped for maple syrup or agave nectar, though it will slightly alter the flavor. For a more intense garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of minced garlic.
Feel free to add vegetables to this dish for extra nutrients and flavor. Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas all work well. Simply stir them into the skillet along with the garlic.
Variation of This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles | Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: In the fall, add some roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the noodles. In the spring, toss in some asparagus or peas.
- Optional Versions: Try adding shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. For a vegetarian version, use all vegetables and a plant based protein.
- Creative Modifications: Make it a noodle soup by adding chicken broth to the sauce. Top with a fried egg for extra richness.
