If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors with a satisfying noodle base, then this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a deliciously easy dinner that manages to be both comforting and exciting, featuring tender chicken thighs glazed in a luscious honey and soy sauce marinade, vibrant veggies adding crunch and color, and noodles that soak up every bit of that sticky garlic goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a quick weeknight dinner that feels special, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe, you only need a few simple but powerful ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in building the dish’s delightful flavor profile and pleasing texture. From the aromatic garlic and honey’s natural sweetness to the freshness of crisp vegetables, every item works together harmoniously.
- Soy sauce: Provides the essential salty umami base that defines the dish’s depth of flavor.
- Honey: Adds a sweet stickiness that glazes the chicken and noodles beautifully.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a strong, aromatic punch that enhances every bite.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, perfect for soaking up marinade and stir-frying.
- Noodles: Egg, rice, or whole wheat noodles all work great, offering a satisfying bite and soak-up factor.
- Oil for cooking: Needed to stir-fry the chicken and vegetables effectively.
- Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas: A colorful trio that brings crunchy freshness and vibrant color to your plate.
- Black pepper: Just a pinch to balance the sweet and savory notes with a subtle heat.
- Sliced green onions: For garnish, adding a pop of fresh brightness.
- Sesame seeds: Optional garnish for a nutty crunch that makes this dish extra special.
How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and the minced garlic in a bowl. This simple marinade is where the magic begins—it infuses the chicken thighs with a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it rest for at least 30 minutes so it soaks in all those garlicky notes that will make the dish irresistible.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook your chosen noodles according to the package instructions. The key here is to drain them well and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking. This ensures they remain tender but separate, ready to mingle seamlessly with the chicken and veggies.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook it until it develops a beautiful browned crust and is cooked all the way through, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in the sticky, garlicky glaze that gives the dish its name. Once done, set the chicken aside but keep all those flavorful juices in the pan.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Into the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in your chopped bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still maintain a satisfying crunch, adding brightness and texture that elevate the dish beyond just noodles and chicken.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add your cooked noodles along with 2 more tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss everything together vigorously over the heat. This final step ensures every strand of noodle and morsel of chicken is coated in that luscious sticky garlic sauce that’s so addictive.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles piping hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little added texture and flavor. This final touch not only makes your dish look gourmet but gives you a hint of freshness and nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the sticky sauce.
How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Sliced green onions and sesame seeds are classic choices that add both visual appeal and flavor contrast. For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil if you like things spicy. Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can also add a bright note to balance the sticky sauce.
Side Dishes
Pairing these noodles with light sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or steamed broccoli keeps the meal well-rounded without overwhelming your palate. Simple Asian-inspired sides like pickled radish or a refreshing miso soup can also complement the richness of the chicken noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the noodles in individual bowls or on large family-style platters for sharing. You can also wrap them in lettuce leaves for handheld bites, turning this into a fun, interactive meal. For an elegant presentation, place a nest of noodles on the plate, top with sliced chicken and vegetables, then garnish meticulously with the green onions and sesame seeds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles hold well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While you can freeze these noodles, the texture of the vegetables may soften after thawing. If freezing, store without the garnishes in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if the noodles seem dry. Stir frequently while warming to keep the noodles from sticking and to revive the glossy, sticky coating that makes this dish so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to their fat content, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.
What type of noodles work best in this recipe?
Egg noodles, rice noodles, or whole wheat noodles all work beautifully here. The choice depends on your preference, but make sure to cook them al dente so they retain some texture when tossed with the sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
By default, this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe is mild and packed with sweet and savory flavors. However, you can easily add heat with chili flakes, sriracha, or a dash of chili oil if you like your meals with a kick.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your veggie mix—broccoli, mushrooms, baby corn, or zucchini all make fantastic additions. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so the veggies remain crisp-tender.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This dish takes about 45 minutes total, including marinating time. The actual hands-on cooking is quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but efficient.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s simple enough for any home cook yet so full of flavor that you’ll keep coming back to it. Give it a try soon, and you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Print
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is a quick and flavorful dinner recipe featuring tender marinated chicken thighs stir-fried with crisp vegetables and noodles, all tossed in a sticky, garlicky soy-honey sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Marinade and Chicken
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
Noodles & Vegetables
- 8 oz noodles (egg noodles, rice noodles, or whole wheat noodles)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 cup snap peas, chopped
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
Sauce & Garnish
- 2 additional tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 additional tablespoon honey
- Pinch of black pepper
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, and minced garlic cloves. Add chicken thighs and coat them well with the mixture. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil, then add the marinated chicken, discarding any leftover marinade. Stir-fry the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Toss in chopped bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles, additional 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss everything together over medium heat until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Plate the sticky garlic chicken noodles hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Enjoy!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 2 hours) for extra flavor.
- Use any noodles of your choice: egg noodles, rice noodles, or whole wheat noodles work well.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for variety.
- Adjust the soy sauce and honey to taste for preferred saltiness or sweetness.
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables to keep their crisp texture.
