If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant and utterly delicious meal that comes together in just about half an hour, this Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe is absolutely a must-try. It perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken, crunchy fresh vegetables, and that irresistibly creamy, tangy peanut sauce that wraps every noodle strand in a cozy flavor hug. This dish manages to feel both comforting and exciting, with a lively Asian-inspired twist that’s sure to become a dinner favorite in your rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just treating yourself, these noodles make a satisfying meal that’s as beautiful as it is scrumptious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right here is key, and luckily, the list is straightforward but thoughtfully chosen. Each component plays an essential role in the recipe’s success—from the tender chicken and fresh veggies adding texture and color, to the peanut butter-based sauce that delivers creamy richness with just the right amount of heat and sweetness.
- 8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti: These tender noodles soak up the sauce beautifully while providing a familiar base.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced: Choose thighs for extra juiciness, or breast for leaner protein.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds toasty, nutty depth that complements the peanut sauce perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Brings a bright, slightly spicy zing to balance richness.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Crunchy sweetness and vibrant color make this veggie pop.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Natural sweetness and texture that pairs well with the sauce.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Adds a mild, fresh onion flavor and vibrant green garnish.
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts, chopped: For that satisfying crunch and extra peanut punch.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: A fragrant herb that lightens and freshens every bite.
- Lime wedges for serving: The zesty squeeze of lime boosts the entire dish with brightness.
- For the peanut sauce:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter: The heart of the sauce delivering smooth, rich creaminess.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides savory umami depth with a salty kick.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to cut through the richness.
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce: Brings gentle heat to enliven the dish.
- ½ cup warm water (more as needed for thinning): Helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
How to Make Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Noodles
First things first, cook your rice noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. It’s important not to overcook them here, so they hold their texture when tossed in the sauce. Once done, drain and set them aside. This step sets the foundation for the whole dish, ensuring your noodles are perfectly tender yet springy.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce
While your noodles are cooking, mix up the fabulous peanut sauce. Grab a bowl and whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and warm water until everything is silky smooth. If it feels a bit too thick, just add more warm water, a splash at a time, until it’s pourable but still rich. This sauce will be the star that carries the dish’s delectable flavor from start to finish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken and cook it until it’s golden brown and completely cooked through—this usually takes around 6 to 7 minutes. The sesame oil gives the chicken a subtle nuttiness that harmonizes so well with the peanut sauce later on.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic, Ginger, and Vegetables
In the same pan with the chicken, add your minced garlic, grated ginger, red bell pepper slices, and shredded carrots. Stir everything around and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. This step keeps the veggies bright and full of crunch, adding layers of texture and freshness to the finished dish.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Toss
Now, add the cooked noodles back into the skillet. Pour the luscious peanut sauce over the noodles, chicken, and veggies. Toss everything together thoroughly so each component gets enveloped in that creamy, spicy peanut goodness. Let the mixture heat through just a minute or two, then it’s ready to plate!
How to Serve Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you bring the dish to life visually and texturally. Sprinkle sliced green onions, chopped roasted peanuts, and fresh cilantro right on top. These garnishes add pops of color and a variety of flavors—from the nutty crunch of peanuts to the herbal brightness of cilantro—that elevate every bite. Don’t forget to serve lime wedges alongside for a zesty finish.
Side Dishes
This Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe shines beautifully on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider simple sides like steamed edamame, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some lightly sautéed broccoli or snap peas. These options complement the rich peanut flavors without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the noodles in hollowed-out bell peppers or pretty, shallow bowls. If entertaining, you can assemble the dish buffet style and let everyone add their own garnishes—lime, extra chili sauce, peanuts, and herbs for personalized flavor boosts. Presentation can turn this casual meal into a memorable experience with minimal extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be a rare occurrence given how delicious this dish is), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The noodles will keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
Freezing peanut sauce is a great way to prep ahead. While the entire noodle dish isn’t ideal for freezing since the texture of noodles can change, the sauce freezes beautifully for up to one month. Defrost in the fridge overnight and stir well before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
When reheating your leftovers, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a few splashes of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. This will help prevent the noodles from drying out and keep the peanut sauce deliciously smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh to keep it vegetarian or vegan-friendly. Just press and marinate your tofu for extra flavor, then follow the same cooking method. Also, make sure to use tamari or a vegan soy sauce alternative to keep it fully vegan.
Is there a substitute for peanut butter if I have allergies?
If peanuts are off-limits, try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute in the sauce. These alternatives offer a similar creamy texture and nutty taste but check to ensure they are safe for your specific allergy needs.
How spicy is this Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe?
The recipe has a gentle heat thanks to the sriracha, but you can easily adjust the spiciness. If you want a milder dish, reduce or omit the chili sauce. For those who love heat, add extra sriracha or a dash of chili flakes to ramp it up.
Can I prepare the peanut sauce in advance?
Yes! The peanut sauce can be whisked together ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to one week. This makes assembling the dish quick and effortless when you’re ready to cook.
What type of noodles works best for this recipe?
Rice noodles are the classic choice for their light texture and ability to soak up the sauce, but spaghetti can be a handy alternative and works well too. Just be sure to cook them al dente to maintain a nice bite when mixed with the sauce and veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe is a total game-changer for quick weeknight dinners that feel a bit special. The magic is in that creamy, flavorful peanut sauce paired with fresh veggies and tender chicken that together create a dish you’ll return to again and again. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—it’s comfort food with a fun twist that’s just waiting to become one of your go-to favorites!
Print
Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Peanut Chicken Noodles are a flavorful and easy Asian-inspired stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy noodles tossed in a creamy, spicy peanut sauce. This quick stovetop recipe combines savory, tangy, and spicy notes for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Peanut Sauce
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce
- ½ cup warm water (more as needed for thinning)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and warm water until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more water if needed.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes until golden brown and completely cooked through.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced red bell pepper, and shredded carrots. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, pour the peanut sauce over everything, and toss to evenly coat and heat through.
- Serve: Divide into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Add broccoli or snap peas for extra vegetables and crunch.
- The peanut sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 1 week.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
