Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken

Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken are a delightful fusion of flavors that come together in a vibrant and satisfying dish. Tender pieces of chicken are coated in a luscious, spicy peanut sauce, complemented by the crunch of fresh vegetables and the comforting chew of egg noodles. This dish brings symphonies of taste and texture to your table, offering comfort with a punch of heat and nuttiness. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it an absolute favorite on busy weeknights or when you crave something uniquely delicious.

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Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken

I still remember the first time I made Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken. It was a chilly evening, and I was looking for something hearty yet quick to whip up after a long day. Pulling together ingredients from my pantry and a few fresh veggies, I didn’t expect this simple meal to become a staple in my kitchen. Perfect for both solo dinners and hosting friends, it’s a recipe that proves satisfying meals don’t need to be complicated. I’m thrilled to share this with you; trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it often!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
  • Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter, spicy chili flakes, and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering experience.
  • Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of cabbage, carrots, and green onions make this dish a feast for the eyes.
  • Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a quick lunch, a cozy dinner at home, or even as a potluck dish that’ll impress everyone at your gathering.
  • Diet-Friendly Options: Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian twist, or use gluten-free noodles if you prefer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): This is the protein base of the dish. Feel free to replace it with tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Essential for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
  • 125g / 4 oz medium egg noodles (chow mein noodles): The heart of the dish, providing a chewy texture that pairs well with the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated: Adds a warm, zesty flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated or crushed: Gives depth and aroma to the stir-fry.
  • 1/4 head cabbage (sliced thinly, about 1.5 cups): Adds crunch and a bit of sweetness.
  • 1 large carrot (julienned): Provides color and a slight crunch.
  • 3 green onions (cut into 2-inch pieces): Brightens the dish with freshness; save one for garnish.
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds: Offers an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  • 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter (heaped): The star ingredient, creating a creamy and rich sauce.
  • 3 tbsp hot water: Helps to thin out the peanut butter for the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.
  • 2 tbsp dark soy sauce: Brings umami and depth to the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce: Adds sweetness and complexity.
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar): Balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
  • 1 tsp dried chili flakes: Provides heat; feel free to adjust according to your preference.

How to Make Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken

  1. Cook the Noodles: Begin by cooking your 4 oz of medium egg noodles according to the package instructions. Afterward, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps the noodles from getting mushy!

  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together 2 heaping tablespoons of smooth peanut butter, 3 tablespoons of hot water, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of dried chili flakes. Stir until everything is well combined, and set aside for later.

  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Season the cut chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then add them to the pan. Stir-fry the chicken until it’s cooked through and has a nice golden brown color, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

  4. Sauté the Veggies: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Toss in the grated ginger and minced garlic, stirring for about 20 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced carrots and cabbage next. Keep stirring for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become slightly browned but still crunchy.

  5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the wok, add the drained noodles, and pour the peanut sauce over everything. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is well coated in the sauce. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds and the reserved green onions for garnish.

  6. Serve with Flair: Dish out your Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken onto plates, and don’t forget to place a small bowl of Chinese chili oil on the side for those who love an extra kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the noodles for up to 3 months. Reheat in a microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You may find that the texture softens a bit, but a splash of water can help refresh it as you stir.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

  • Avoid overcooking the chicken by cutting it into uniform pieces; this ensures even cooking.
  • Don’t skimp on the ginger and garlic; they’re key to building flavor in this dish!
  • If you’re looking for extra flavor, toss in a handful of chopped peanuts or some fried shallots right before serving.
  • Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chili flakes according to your preference.
  • Make this dish ahead of time and let the flavors meld for an even richer taste.

Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a joyful combination of flavors and textures that never fails to satisfy. Each bite is a celebration of the balance between spice and richness, and the best part? It can adapt beautifully to whatever you have on hand. So gather your ingredients and take that leap into a comforting culinary adventure. You’re bound to love every moment spent cooking and, of course, indulging in this delightful dish!

Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, and follow the same cooking instructions. You might want to press the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture for the best texture.

What kind of noodles should I use?

Medium egg noodles, like chow mein, are ideal, but you can also use rice noodles or even whole wheat noodles if you prefer a healthier option. Just follow the cooking instructions based on what you choose.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat primarily comes from the dried chili flakes. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and gradually add to your taste, or mix in bell peppers for color and crunch without the heat.

What do I serve this with?

Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken is lovely on its own, but if you want to expand the meal, pair it with a simple side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the rich and spicy flavors. Enjoy!

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Peanut-Chilli-Noodles-with-Chicken-Recipe

Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken

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  • Author: Peter
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Stir Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian

Description

Peanut Chilli Noodles with Chicken is a delightful dish brimming with flavor. It features tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and delicious peanut sauce, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting meal any night.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 125g / 4 oz medium egg noodles
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated or crushed
  • 1/4 head cabbage, sliced thinly (1.5 cups)
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 3 green onion, cut into 2 inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter, heaped
  • 3 tbsp hot water
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried chilli flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While the noodles are cooking, mix together the sauce ingredients and set aside.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok, add the chicken seasoned with salt, and stir until cooked through.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  5. Add the remaining vegetable oil to the wok and sauté the ginger and garlic briefly.
  6. Add the carrots and cabbage; stir fry over high heat for about 5 minutes until slightly browned yet crisp.
  7. Combine the cooked noodles, chicken, green onions, and peanut sauce in the wok, mixing thoroughly.
  8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional green onions, serving with Chinese chilli oil if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce before cooking.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have available.
Serve with chilli oil for an added kick.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 535
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 21g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 49g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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