Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick and easy recipe that’s packed with flavor and nutrients, look no further than Chicken Teriyaki Noodles. This delicious dish combines tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and savory noodles, all coated in a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this dish is straightforward and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s versatile and can be tailored to your family’s preferences.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this flavorful dish a staple in your household.
Ingredients with Quantities
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein or ramen work great)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Direction and Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling your noodles according to the package instructions. Whether you choose lo mein or ramen, either will work well with this recipe. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. It’s important to prepare the noodles first, as this will allow you to quickly toss them into the stir-fry later, saving time.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and water. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in the water before mixing it into the sauce. This will create a smooth, glossy teriyaki sauce that clings to the noodles and chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. By browning the chicken first, you’ll get a nice depth of flavor that complements the teriyaki sauce.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Using the same pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and shredded carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but still crisp. The key to a great stir-fry is to ensure the vegetables remain vibrant and slightly crunchy, providing a textural contrast to the tender chicken and noodles.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Veggies
Once the vegetables are ready, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you’ve added cornstarch, the sauce should thicken during this step.
Step 6: Add the Noodles
Finally, add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss everything together. Make sure the noodles are well coated in the sauce and mixed evenly with the chicken and vegetables. The result should be a harmonious dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Chicken Teriyaki Noodles to a serving dish, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. These final touches not only add a pop of color but also elevate the dish’s presentation, making it look just as good as it tastes.
FAQs
1. Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Yes! While lo mein or ramen are commonly used in this recipe, you can swap them out for other noodles like udon, rice noodles, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. The important thing is to cook the noodles according to their specific instructions, ensuring they’re tender but not overcooked.
2. Can I Substitute the Vegetables?
Absolutely. This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to replace the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots with other vegetables like snap peas, bok choy, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the veggies you choose.
3. Is There a Gluten-Free Option?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles. Be sure to check the labels to confirm the products are certified gluten-free.
4. What If I Don’t Have Fresh Ginger or Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh ginger or garlic on hand, you can use powdered versions as a substitute. For the ginger, use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and for the garlic, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. However, fresh ingredients are recommended for the best flavor.
5. How Can I Make the Dish Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with chili oil or a spicy teriyaki sauce for an extra kick.
6. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Teriyaki Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry them in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
7. Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture (without the noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator, cook fresh noodles, and combine everything in the pan for a quick and easy meal.
8. What Can I Serve with Chicken Teriyaki Noodles?
This dish is a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed rice, dumplings, or a simple Asian cucumber salad for added variety. If you’re looking to round out the meal, consider offering a light soup like miso or egg drop soup as a starter.
Conclusion
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is a fantastic dish that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. With its combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, savory noodles, and a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, it’s a dish that will satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for a weeknight staple, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Plus, its versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit your personal taste preferences or dietary needs.
Savor this quick Chicken Teriyaki Noodles recipe, packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners!