Discover this quick and vibrant chicken stir fry with noodles recipe, your new weeknight favorite. Perfect for busy evenings, this dish offers a healthier and more flavorful alternative to takeout.
A study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health highlights the benefits of home cooking. Johns Hopkins study on home cooking and healthier diets
You can have a complete, delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes. Get ready to cook with confidence and bring incredible flavors to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stir Fry
This incredible chicken stir fry with noodles will quickly become a cherished recipe in your kitchen for many reasons:
- Quick and Easy Preparation: It comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthier Homemade Alternative: You control the ingredients, making it fresher and more wholesome than takeout.
- Customizable with Favorite Veggies: Easily swap in any vegetables you have on hand or prefer.
- Packed with Savory Asian Flavors: The sauce strikes a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.
- One-Pan Cleanup for Convenience: Most of the cooking happens in a single wok or large skillet, simplifying dishwashing.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect chicken stir fry with noodles. Fresh components make all the difference for a vibrant, flavorful meal.
- 12 oz rice noodles
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lb skinless boneless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized strips
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, or 1/2 red and 1/2 green, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 4 oz shiitake or portobello mushroom, sliced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce, NOT low-sodium*
- 2 Tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- Few drizzles of sesame oil
Notes & Substitutions
- Noodles: Rice noodles offer a great texture, but feel free to use ramen, egg noodles, or lo mein noodles. Cook them according to package directions before adding to the stir fry.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully for a richer flavor. You can also use shrimp, sliced beef, or firm tofu as a protein swap for a different stir fry experience.
- Vegetables: Get creative with your veggies! Carrots, snap peas, bok choy, water chestnuts, or baby corn are excellent additions. Use what’s seasonal and what you love.
- Sauce: Adjust the sweetness by adding a touch of brown sugar. For a spicy kick, include a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to your sauce mixture.
- Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce provides a fuller flavor. If you opt for low-sodium soy sauce, you might need to add a pinch more salt to balance the taste.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger offers the best aroma and flavor. If using ground ginger, use about 1 teaspoon, adding it during the vegetable sauté.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes preparing this chicken stir fry effortless and enjoyable.
- Large wok or skillet
- Medium pot for noodles
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
How To Make Chicken Stir Fry With Noodles
Follow these clear steps to create a delicious and vibrant chicken stir fry with noodles right in your own kitchen. This recipe makes cooking approachable and fun!
- Prepare the Noodles: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook them on medium heat for about 2 to 4 minutes, or until barely tender. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your noodles. Drain the noodles thoroughly and stir in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Set them aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Lightly season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet and stir-fry for about 3 minutes, or until it’s just cooked through and lightly golden. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers, chopped broccoli, and sliced mushrooms to the same skillet. Sauté them for 1 minute, allowing them to start tenderizing. Stir in the grated fresh ginger and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Make the Stir Fry Sauce: While the vegetables cook, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, ketchup, and cornstarch in a small mixing bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This creates the flavorful sauce for your stir-fry.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken and the prepared noodles to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the whisked sauce mixture over everything. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes, continually tossing the ingredients. Continue until the chicken is thoroughly heated through and the sauce has thickened, beautifully coating the noodles and vegetables.
- Serve and Enjoy: Right before serving, drizzle a few drops of sesame oil over the entire dish. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper as desired. Grab a fork and enjoy your freshly made, flavorful chicken stir fry with noodles!
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Stir Fry With Noodles
Mastering a fantastic chicken stir fry is easier than you think with these expert tips.
- High Heat: Always ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding ingredients. This creates a proper sear and prevents steaming. Understanding the science behind high-heat cooking, like the Maillard reaction, can significantly improve your stir-fry results. the Maillard reaction in cooking
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook chicken and vegetables in batches if necessary. Overcrowding cools the pan and steams ingredients, making them soggy.
- Prep Ahead: Chop all your ingredients before you start cooking (this is called mise en place). Stir-frying moves quickly, so you’ll appreciate everything being ready.
- Perfect Chicken: Slice the chicken thinly and uniformly. This ensures quick, even cooking and tender results in your chicken stir fry.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, you can whisk in a little more cornstarch mixed with water. If it’s too thick, add a splash more chicken broth.
- Noodle Texture: Don’t overcook the noodles initially. They will finish cooking and absorb flavor when you add them back into the stir fry.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
Make the most of your delicious chicken stir fry with noodles with these helpful tips and ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your flavorful chicken stir fry with noodles immediately as a complete and satisfying meal. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, garnish it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or some freshly sliced green onions.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate any leftover chicken stir fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Ensure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, gently warm the stir fry on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the noodles and prevent sticking. You can also microwave leftovers in intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Protein: Easily swap the chicken for shrimp stir fry, sliced beef stir fry, or even a hearty tofu stir fry.
- Vegetables: Enhance your dish with snow peas, sliced carrots, or crunchy baby corn for added texture and nutrition.
- Spice Level: For those who enjoy heat, incorporate a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha into the sauce.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter into the sauce for a delightful, rich, and nutty dimension.
- Citrus Boost: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens all the flavors in your chicken stir fry.
Nutrition Information
This delicious chicken stir fry with noodles provides a balanced meal.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 588 kcal |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Trans Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 73 mg |
| Sodium | 877 mg |
| Potassium | 741 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 80 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Vitamin A | 1146 IU |
| Vitamin C | 60 mg |
| Calcium | 39 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Disclaimer: These are approximate nutritional values per serving. For precise dietary advice tailored to your needs, please consult a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of noodles are best for chicken stir fry?
Rice noodles are excellent for their texture and ability to absorb sauce. Egg noodles, lo mein noodles, or even quick-cooking ramen can also create a fantastic chicken stir fry with noodles.
How do I prevent my stir fry from getting watery?
The key is high heat and not overcrowding your pan. Cook ingredients in batches if needed, allowing moisture to evaporate quickly rather than steam the food. Proper vegetable prep, like slicing evenly, also helps.
Can I make this chicken stir fry ahead of time?
You can chop all your vegetables and prepare the sauce up to a day in advance. For the freshest taste and best texture, cook the stir fry just before serving. Leftovers store well for a few days.
What’s the secret to tender stir fry chicken?
Slice the chicken thinly and uniformly against the grain. Cook it quickly at high heat until just done, then remove it from the pan before sautéing vegetables. This prevents overcooking and keeps your chicken stir fry moist.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for convenience. Add them directly to the hot pan, stirring until they are heated through and crisp-tender. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as they might release more water.
Conclusion
This delightful chicken stir fry with noodles recipe proves that delicious, healthy home cooking can be both fast and incredibly rewarding. In just 30 minutes, you can create a vibrant, flavorful meal that easily rivals your favorite takeout. We hope this recipe empowers you to cook with confidence and joy. Try this customizable weeknight wonder tonight, and don’t forget to share your amazing stir fry creations with us!
Flavorful Chicken Stir Fry with Noodles
Kitchen Equipment
- medium size pan
- large wok or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- fork
Recipe Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz rice noodles
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lb skinless boneless chicken breasts sliced into bite-sized strips
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper or 1/2 red and 1/2 green, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli chopped
- 4 oz shiitake or portobello mushroom sliced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger peeled and grated
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce NOT low-sodium
- 2 Tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp corn starch
Garnish
- sesame oil few drizzles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Bring a medium pan of salted water to a boil, cook noodles for 2-4 minutes until barely tender, then drain and stir in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper, stir-fry for about 3 minutes until cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- Add bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute; then add ginger and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken stock, soy sauce, ketchup, and cornstarch.
- Return the chicken and noodles to the skillet, add the broth mixture, and stir-fry for 3 minutes or until the chicken is hot and fully cooked through.
- Before serving, drizzle with sesame oil and season to taste with salt and pepper.
