Spicy Garlic Chicken Noodles Savory Quick Meal Recipe
Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? In this article, I’ll show you how to make Spicy Garlic Chicken Noodles, a quick and savory meal that’s bursting with flavor. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. From the juicy chicken to the crunchy veggies, you’ll learn step-by-step how to create a dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 300g egg noodles
- 450g chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust according to desired spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (choose red or yellow for added color)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Measurement Conversions
- 300 grams = 10.58 ounces
- 450 grams = 15.87 ounces
- 1 tablespoon = 15 milliliters
- 1 cup = 240 milliliters
Recommended Brands or Products
For the best taste, I recommend using:
- Soy Sauce: Kikkoman or Tamari for gluten-free options
- Chili Paste: Sriracha for a milder kick or Sambal Oelek for more heat
- Sesame Oil: Kadoya for its rich flavor
- Egg Noodles: Any brand that uses real eggs for a richer taste
These ingredients will help you create a dish that is not only quick but packed with flavor. Enjoy the process of cooking, and feel free to explore different brands to find the flavors you love most!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Noodles
First, cook 300g of egg noodles. Follow the package instructions for best results. Once they are ready, drain them in a colander. Make sure to set them aside. This keeps them from sticking together.
Preparing the Chicken
Next, take 450g of chicken breast. Slice it thinly. This helps the chicken cook faster. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, add 4 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Keep stirring to avoid burning. Then, add the sliced chicken. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Once the chicken is cooked, add 1 thinly sliced bell pepper and 1 cup of broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry them for 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies tender but still crunchy. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.
Combining Ingredients
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce with 1 tablespoon of chili paste. Pour this sauce over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Make sure everything is nicely coated. Then, toss in the cooked noodles. Mix well until they are covered in the spicy garlic sauce.
Serving Recommendations
Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in 2 finely chopped green onions. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more soy sauce or chili paste for extra flavor. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and extra green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your Spicy Garlic Chicken Noodles!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Garlic Flavor
Use fresh garlic for the best taste. When you chop garlic, do it finely. This helps release more flavor. Keep an eye on it while cooking. Garlic cooks fast and can burn easily. If it burns, it turns bitter. Aim for a golden brown color. This gives your dish a rich taste.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Spice is all about balance. Start with one tablespoon of chili paste. Taste your dish before adding more. If you want it hotter, add more paste slowly. You can also use less chili paste for a milder dish. If you love spice, try adding red pepper flakes. They add heat and flavor.
Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken and Crunchy Vegetables
Cook chicken over medium-high heat. This keeps it juicy. Stir it often to cook evenly. For vegetables, stir-fry them quickly. This keeps them crunchy. Add them after the chicken is mostly cooked. This way, they stay bright and crisp. Don’t overcook them; you want the color and texture to shine.
Variations
Vegetarian Adaptations
You can easily make Spicy Garlic Chicken Noodles vegetarian. Start by swapping the chicken for tofu. Use firm tofu for the best texture. Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into small cubes. Sauté the tofu until golden brown. You can also use tempeh or seitan for added protein. For the sauce, you can keep the soy sauce and chili paste. This keeps the flavors bold and delicious.
Adding Different Proteins
You have many options if you want to change the protein. Shrimp works great in this dish. Just add peeled shrimp to the skillet after cooking the garlic. They cook quickly, about 3-4 minutes, until they turn pink. You can also use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a different taste, try adding sliced beef or pork. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure they are fully cooked.
Alternative Vegetables and Flavorings
Feel free to switch up the vegetables in your noodles. Carrots, snap peas, or zucchini can add nice colors and textures. You can also try adding baby corn or mushrooms for extra flavor. For a different taste, add a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can give your meal a fresh kick. The key is to keep it colorful and vibrant while balancing the flavors.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your tasty Spicy Garlic Chicken Noodles, first let them cool. Once cool, transfer them to an airtight container. Keep the dish in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you’ll know when to use it.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is easy. You can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, place your noodles in a bowl. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. If you prefer a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the noodles and cook until warm, stirring often. This keeps the noodles tasty and fresh.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze the dish, it’s simple. Place cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The noodles can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. You can reheat them as described above. This way, you can enjoy your spicy meal anytime!
FAQs
What is the best type of noodles for this recipe?
I recommend using egg noodles. They cook quickly and soak up flavors well. You can also try rice noodles if you prefer a lighter option. Both types create a great base for the spicy garlic sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and veggies, then store them in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat them and add the noodles. This saves time for busy days.
What are some side dishes that go well with Spicy Garlic Chicken Noodles?
You can serve this dish with a simple cucumber salad. It adds a nice crunch and freshness. Another great option is steamed dumplings. They complement the spicy flavors well and make a filling meal.
How to make the noodles gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, switch the egg noodles for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the soy sauce label. Choose a gluten-free version to keep the dish safe for those with allergies.
We covered the key ingredients and how to measure them. You now have step-by-step instructions to create your dish. Tips and tricks help you perfect flavors and textures. Variations let you customize the meal, while storage info ensures leftovers stay fresh.
In the end, cooking can be fun and easy. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Enjoy your meal and share it with friends!
![To make a delicious Vegan Lentil Shepherd's Pie, you will need: - 1 cup green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed - 3 cups vegetable broth - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 medium carrots, diced into small cubes - 2 celery stalks, finely diced - 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen) - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste - 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into chunks - 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or soy) - 2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil You can enhance your shepherd's pie with these optional ingredients: - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness - 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor - 1 cup mushrooms, diced, for a hearty texture - A splash of red wine for depth of flavor This recipe serves 4-6 and is a healthy choice. Each serving has: - Approximately 300 calories - 14 grams of protein - 10 grams of fiber - Low in saturated fat - Rich in vitamins A and C from the veggies When you make this Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, you enjoy a meal that is tasty, filling, and good for you. For the complete cooking details, check out the Full Recipe. To cook the lentils, start by rinsing 1 cup of green or brown lentils. Next, place them in a medium pot with 3 cups of vegetable broth. Bring this mix to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. You want the lentils to be tender but not mushy. Drain any leftover liquid and put the lentils aside. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Then, include 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook this mix for another 5-7 minutes until all the veggies are tender. Now, stir in the cooked lentils, 1 cup of peas, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and some salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes. While the lentil mix simmers, you can prepare the potatoes. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 4 large, peeled, and chopped potatoes. Cook them until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher. Mix in 1/4 cup of plant-based milk and 2 tablespoons of vegan butter. Keep mashing until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and spoon the lentil mixture into the bottom. Spread the creamy mashed potatoes over the top. Use a fork to create peaks for texture. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. This dish is now ready to enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. To make creamy mashed potatoes, start with hot potatoes. Use a potato masher or ricer for the best texture. Gradually add unsweetened plant-based milk and vegan butter for creaminess. Mix until smooth, but avoid over-mixing. A pinch of salt enhances the flavor. Use fresh ingredients for depth. Start by sautéing onions until soft. Add garlic, carrots, and celery for sweetness. Cook them until tender. Incorporate the lentils with herbs like thyme and rosemary. This step brings out the flavors. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer briefly to blend all the tastes. Serve your Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie hot. Pair it with a crisp green salad for balance. You can also add crusty bread for a hearty touch. For extra flair, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. This adds color and freshness to your meal. Explore different side dishes like roasted vegetables or quinoa for variety. Enjoy your delightful and wholesome dinner! For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can make this lentil shepherd's pie gluten-free. Simply replace soy sauce with coconut aminos. This swap keeps the flavor but avoids gluten. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. If you're avoiding lentils, try chickpeas or black beans as protein sources. For a nut-free version, skip the plant-based milk and use vegetable broth for mashing. You can also use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-carb twist. Incorporate seasonal vegetables to boost flavor and nutrition. Fresh spinach or zucchini works great in the filling. Mushrooms add a nice umami taste, too. Don't be afraid to mix it up based on what's in season. This keeps your dish fresh and exciting. For the full recipe, refer to the beginning of this article. To store your Vegan Lentil Shepherd's Pie, let it cool first. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This keeps the flavors intact and helps maintain the pie's texture. If you want to save some pie for later, freezing is a great option. Cut the pie into individual portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in foil. This prevents freezer burn. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat your shepherd's pie, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the pie from the fridge or freezer and unwrap it. Place it in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat it for about 25-30 minutes if cold. If it’s frozen, it might take up to 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp the top. Enjoy your delicious meal just like it was fresh! Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just drain and rinse them first. They cook faster. This saves time. For this recipe, use about 1.5 cups of canned lentils. You can serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread also works well. The pie is hearty, so keep sides light. It lasts for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Reheat it in the oven or microwave. Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Assemble the pie, then cover it and chill. Bake it just before serving for the best taste. Check out the Full Recipe for more details! This blog post covered how to make a tasty vegan lentil shepherd's pie. We explored essential and optional ingredients, plus nutritional info. I provided clear, step-by-step cooking methods. You learned tips for creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful lentils. We noted variations for different diets and the best ways to store leftovers. In closing, I hope you enjoy making this dish! It’s a great meal for everyone.](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/9ba9e126-74d7-4f69-86a8-52952e7f4e77-768x768.webp)
