Pin it
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles always hit the spot when I need dinner fast but crave something extra flavorful The combination of sweet garlicky sauce and juicy chicken all tossed with noodles makes a complete meal in just one pan and no takeout order necessary
My family begs for these noodles when schedules get crazy The first time I threw this dish together we could hardly wait for leftovers and it quickly became our weeknight staple
Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness and richness or lean breast for lighter flavor
- Soy sauce: Provides salty balanced depth Look for low sodium to easily control your seasoning
- Honey: Brings sticky shine and warmth Choose a floral honey for subtle complexity
- Fresh garlic: Essential for sharp savory punch Give it a fine mince for full flavor
- Grated ginger: Fresh ginger adds gentle spiciness and brightness Use a spoon to easily peel before grating
- Red chili flakes: Optional Gives the sauce a customizable kick Use extra for heat lovers
- Cornstarch: Helps brown the chicken and thickens the sauce Silkier results than flour
- Vegetable oil: Choose a neutral oil with high smoke point for best stir frying
- Noodles: Rice or egg noodles work Both soak up sauce beautifully Try to find noodles with bounce and chew
- Green onions: Freshness and color Scallions are best when chopped just before serving
- Sesame seeds: Optional These finish the dish with a gentle crunch and nutty hint Toast lightly for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Sauce:
- Combine soy sauce honey minced garlic grated ginger and optional chili flakes in a small bowl Mix until honey dissolves and everything is well blended This will be fragrant and the base of your noodles
- Coat the Chicken:
- Sprinkle cornstarch over your bite sized chicken pieces Toss until every piece has a light even coating This ensures a golden exterior and helps the sauce stick
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high Add the chicken and spread it out Let cook undisturbed for two to three minutes so one side browns Flip and continue cooking another four minutes until all pieces are golden and fully cooked inside
- Add and Thicken the Sauce:
- Pour your garlic honey soy sauce mixture over the cooked chicken Stir well so every piece is coated Simmer two to three minutes letting the sauce bubble and thicken The aroma should be irresistible
- Cook the Noodles:
- Meanwhile boil your noodles according to package timing Cook until tender but not mushy Drain well and give them a quick rinse if using rice noodles
- Bring It All Together:
- Add the drained noodles into the skillet with your sticky chicken Toss everything together for at least one minute so every strand soaks up the glossy sauce and nothing sticks
- Garnish and Serve:
- Turn off the heat Sprinkle chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds over top Serve immediately for best texture and flavor
Pin it
Sticky honey is my favorite part of this recipe because it makes the sauce truly unique and craveable The smell of garlic hitting the pan always gets my kids to the table faster and it is a dish they love helping to toss at the end
Storage Tips
Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and try to eat within three days The noodles will soak up sauce as they chill so I like to splash a little water in when reheating and stir gently in a pan over medium heat
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out honey for maple syrup or agave if you want a different sweetness or to make it plant based Use tofu cubes instead of chicken and tamari for gluten free noodles add whatever quick cooking vegetables you have around like broccoli snow peas or bell peppers for extra color and crunch
Serving Suggestions
These noodles are plenty on their own but for an even more complete meal serve with a simple cucumber salad or steamed bok choy If making for company sprinkle extra green onions and a squeeze of lime overtop for a fresh finish Everyone will ask for seconds
Cultural and Historical Context
Sticky sweet and garlicky noodle dishes have roots in many Asian cuisines This riff brings together classic flavors in a family friendly package that echoes Chinese style garlic noodles but with extra protein and sauce for a real main course The adaptability is what I love most since every family seems to make it just a little differently
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes! Rice noodles or egg noodles work well. You can also try udon or ramen noodles for a different texture.
- → What's the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out?
Using chicken thighs will result in juicier chicken. Also, don't overcook the chicken; cook it until just cooked through.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Also, be sure to use a vegetarian-friendly soy sauce.
- → How do I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- → What vegetables pair well with these noodles?
Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and bok choy are all great additions. Add them to the skillet along with the sauce.
- → Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey, especially for a vegan version.