If you adore noodles that are bursting with flavor and coated in a luscious, sticky sauce, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender chicken pieces enveloped in a garlicky, honey-soy glaze that clings to every strand of noodles. This dish manages to be incredibly satisfying and comforting, while still feeling fresh and vibrant. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this recipe quickly becomes a favorite go-to that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe starts with a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from adding the right savory foundation to layering in sweetness, spice, and even a little crunch from the garnishes.
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 lb): Choose tender cuts that soak up the sauce beautifully and remain juicy when cooked.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): The salty umami base that brings a deep savory taste.
- Honey (3 tbsp): Adds a natural sweetness that balances garlic and soy sauce perfectly.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): Fresh garlic gives the dish its signature punchy aroma and flavor.
- Ginger (1 tsp, grated): Adds warm earthy notes that lift the whole dish.
- Red chili flakes (1/2 tsp, optional): A little heat to awaken your palate without overpowering the dish.
- Cornstarch (2 tbsp): Helps create that irresistible sticky texture by coating the chicken.
- Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): Perfect for frying to achieve golden, crispy edges on the chicken.
- Noodles (8 oz): Rice or egg noodles work wonderfully as they soak up the sauce and add substantial bite.
- Green onions (2, chopped): For freshness and a splash of vibrant color as a garnish.
- Sesame seeds (1 tsp, optional): Adds a subtle nutty crunch that makes every bite that much better.
How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Sauce
Start by combining the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red chili flakes in a bowl. Stir these together until perfectly blended, creating the sticky, savory, sweet foundation that will coat your chicken and noodles with delightful flavor.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken Pieces
Give your bite-sized chicken pieces a light dusting of cornstarch, tossing them in a bowl so each piece gets evenly coated. This step is crucial because it not only helps the chicken develop a golden crust but also thickens the sauce beautifully later on.
Step 3: Heat the Pan and Cook the Chicken
Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the coated chicken pieces, cooking them for 6 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally so they brown evenly and become irresistibly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
Step 4: Add the Sticky Sauce
Pour your prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat every morsel in that shiny glaze, then let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and become gloriously sticky, perfectly clinging to each chicken piece.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
While your chicken simmers, prepare the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them well once tender but still firm, and set aside so they are ready to soak up all the sticky garlic goodness.
Step 6: Combine Noodles and Chicken
Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the saucy chicken. Toss everything together to coat the noodles in that irresistible sticky sauce, ensuring each strand is packed with flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe by sprinkling chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. These fresh garnishes add a lovely pop of color and texture, turning your dish into a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.
How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only brings a beautiful visual contrast but also introduces freshness and nuttiness to every bite. For an extra layer of flavor, consider a drizzle of toasted sesame oil or a few more chili flakes to amp up the heat.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with crisp steamed vegetables like bok choy or broccoli adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness. A side of simple cucumber salad or pickled radishes also complements the bold sticky garlic flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your dinner guests, serve the noodles in a vibrant bowl and top with additional garnishes like chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro. Wrapping the noodles in lettuce leaves for a hands-on eating experience is another fun way to enjoy this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll remain fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save the dish for longer, freezing is an option. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that fresh garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds are best added after reheating for maximum freshness.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, warm the noodles and chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly as it can sometimes make the noodles sticky and clumpy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rice noodles or egg noodles are recommended, but you can also experiment with soba or even udon noodles for a different texture and bite.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your noodles are gluten-free. This swap keeps all the incredible flavors intact without the gluten.
How spicy is this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe?
The red chili flakes are optional, so you control the heat. You can add more if you like a spicy kick or leave them out completely for a milder dish.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Definitely! Shrimp or tofu work wonderfully with this recipe and soak up the sticky garlic sauce just as beautifully as chicken does.
What can I serve with this dish to make it a full meal?
Pair the noodles with steamed greens or a crisp salad to add balance and extra nutrition. A light soup or spring rolls also mini-complement this hearty, flavorful dish.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to because it hits every note you want from dinner: quick, flavorful, satisfying, and with just the right shine and stickiness to make each bite a delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved classic in your own kitchen!
Print
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles combine tender pieces of chicken coated in a sweet and savory garlic-ginger sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked noodles for a comforting and flavorful meal. This quick skillet recipe features a sticky honey soy glaze with a hint of spice and aromatic garlic, garnished with fresh green onions and optional sesame seeds for added texture and taste.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Noodles and Garnish
- 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes (if using) thoroughly to form a flavorful sauce.
- Coat Chicken: Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated to help create a crispy and sticky texture.
- Heat Oil: Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Add the coated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through thoroughly.
- Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken and stir well to coat all pieces evenly. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky.
- Cook Noodles: Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside.
- Combine Noodles and Chicken: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sticky chicken sauce and toss everything together to combine flavors evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using) over the top before serving hot for a fresh and nutty finish.
Notes
- You can use either chicken breast or thighs depending on your preference; thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
- Adjust the red chili flakes according to your heat tolerance.
- For gluten-free, make sure to use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Adding vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can boost the nutritional value and add crunch to the dish.
