“`html
If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in layers of bold flavors, tender chicken, and satisfying noodles, then you absolutely must try this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, combining succulent marinated chicken cooked to perfection with a luscious, glossy garlic sauce that clings to every strand of noodles. With just the right balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy notes, this recipe is an all-star that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian-inspired cooking right into your kitchen. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to comfort meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the magic in the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe comes from a handful of simple, accessible ingredients that each play their part beautifully. From the tender chicken thighs infused with marinade spices to the fresh, crunchy vegetables and that unbeatable sticky garlic sauce, everything is essential for that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color.
- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced into strips: Juicy and tender, these form the hearty protein base of the dish.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Adds savory umami depth to both the chicken marinade and sauce.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings in a rich, slightly sweet complexity that builds layers of flavor.
- 1 tsp cornstarch: Helps to thicken the marinade and sauce, giving that signature stickiness.
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional): Lends a subtle nuttiness that enhances the aroma of the chicken.
- 1/2 tsp ground white or black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle bite.
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste): Balances the flavors and seasons the chicken.
- 250 g dried egg noodles, wheat noodles, or rice noodles: Perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided): Needed for stir-frying the vegetables and chicken with a nice sear.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Provides aromatic sweetness and texture.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned: Adds crunch and a subtle natural sweetness.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Bright color and crispness that contrast beautifully with the noodles.
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage or napa cabbage (optional): Offers a mild crunch and a bit of freshness.
- 3–4 spring onions (scallions), sliced (whites and greens separated): Whites bring pungency; greens add freshness at the end.
- 4–6 cloves garlic, finely minced: The star ingredient for that irresistible sticky garlic flavor.
- 1–2 fresh red chilies, finely sliced (optional): For those who love a touch of heat in every bite.
- 4 tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose): Forms the savory foundation of the sticky garlic sauce.
- 1 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce (optional but recommended): Deepens color and intensifies flavor.
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce: Enhances the sauce’s richness and silkiness.
- 2–3 tbsp hoisin sauce: Adds sweetness and a sticky texture that sets this recipe apart.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Provides a sharp tang that balances the rich sauce.
- 3–4 tbsp honey or brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce and helps it become gloriously sticky.
- 1/3 cup water or low-sodium chicken stock: Adjusts the sauce consistency and adds flavor.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to that perfect clingy consistency.
- 1 tsp chili sauce or sriracha (optional): For a flavorful kick of heat.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: Adds final layers of aroma and richness to the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Gives a subtle peppery warmth in the sauce.
- 1–2 tsp toasted sesame seeds: Toasty garnish that adds a delightful crunch.
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, roughly chopped (optional): Offers bright herbal notes that lift the entire dish.
- Extra sliced spring onion greens: For an extra fresh, colorful finish.
How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by coating your thinly sliced chicken thighs or breasts in soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, pepper, and salt. Mixing everything together ensures that each strip gets evenly flavored. Letting the chicken marinate for 15 to 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld deeply, and if you have time, refrigerate for up to an hour to enhance that savory depth even further. This simple step sets the stage for juicy, flavorful chicken pieces that lock in moisture while stir-frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they’re just al dente — you want them tender but still with a little bite. Right after draining, rinse them briefly under cold water; this stops the cooking process and helps prevent over-soft, mushy noodles later. Tossing them lightly with a teaspoon of oil keeps the strands separate and prevents clumping when you add them back to the wok. Setting them aside now prepares you for quick assembly later.
Step 3: Make the Sticky Garlic Sauce
In a medium bowl or measuring jug, whisk together soy sauces, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and other sauce ingredients until smooth and sticky. The cornstarch works its magic here by thickening the sauce when heated, while the honey or brown sugar ensures that beautiful glossy coating that makes this recipe truly shine. Take a moment to taste and tweak the balance of flavors — maybe a little more honey if you prefer it sweeter or an extra splash of vinegar to brighten things.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Aromatics and Vegetables
Heat a tablespoon of oil in your wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat and toss in the onions first, softening them just slightly to release their sweetness. Next, add carrots, bell pepper, and cabbage for a gorgeous burst of multiple textures and colors — stir-fry these until vibrant and still crisp. Finish by sautéing the garlic, spring onion whites, and chilies briefly, just until fragrant. Taking care not to burn the garlic here is key, because that scent and flavor is what will make your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe sing.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Using the same pan, add the remaining oil and sear the marinated chicken in as much of a single layer as possible. Let it sit undisturbed for a minute or two to develop a lovely, slightly caramelized crust before stirring. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly browned. If the pan looks dry or bits start to stick, a splash of water helps you deglaze and collect all those delicious browned morsels into the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and give the sticky garlic sauce a quick stir before pouring it over the chicken. Stir constantly as the sauce warms and thickens, turning glossy and luxurious within a couple of minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of water will loosen it gently, ensuring the chicken gets perfectly coated in that irresistible glaze.
Step 7: Add Noodles and Vegetables
Finally, add the cooked noodles and the stir-fried vegetables back into the pan. Toss everything together with tongs, making sure every noodle strand gets wrapped in that sticky, garlicky sauce and all the flavors meld seamlessly. Sprinkle in the green parts of the spring onions for a fresh pop of color and crunch. Adjust seasoning to your liking with a touch more soy sauce or salt if needed. This final step ties all the components into one harmonious dish.
How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate the presentation and enhance the flavors, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the noodles right before serving. Their nutty crunch adds great contrast to the sticky sauce. Fresh coriander leaves lend a bright herbal note and vibrant green color, while extra sliced spring onion greens give a fresh, crisp finish. These simple touches make the dish look as fantastic as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe shines as a main event but pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. Think crisp cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or a side of steamed greens dressed with a splash of soy and sesame oil. Alternatively, a bowl of miso soup or a simple clear broth can complement the richness of the noodles and balance the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your sticky garlic chicken noodles in individual bowls topped with a fried egg for extra richness. Or pile them on a large communal platter to share, garnished with lime wedges and chili oil on the side so everyone can customize their heat and tang. Even lettuce wraps using the noodles and chicken make for a fresh handheld treat perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better. Just be sure to cool the noodles and chicken completely before storing to keep the sauce from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the noodles and vegetables to preserve texture. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe gently in a wok or skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and prevent the noodles from drying out. Alternatively, microwave leftovers covered to retain moisture, but stovetop reheating provides the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine in this recipe and will still be delicious. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breasts can dry out faster than thighs. Thinly slicing helps them cook quickly and remain tender.
What kind of noodles work best for this recipe?
Egg noodles, wheat noodles, or even rice noodles all make great choices. Choose your favorite texture and type—just cook them until al dente and rinse to stop overcooking, so they hold up well when tossed with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom sauce alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and enjoy a plant-based version with the same sticky garlic goodness.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you love heat, add more fresh chilies or chili sauce like sriracha. For a milder dish, leave out the chilies and use just a small amount of chili sauce or none at all. The flavors remain balanced and delicious even without spice.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes, marinate the chicken a few hours ahead or overnight for extra flavor. You can also chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce beforehand. When ready, just stir-fry everything quickly and toss together for a fast, satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe truly captures the essence of comfort food with a vibrant Asian twist. It’s an approachable recipe that delivers on flavor and texture, guaranteed to brighten up any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this dish will win hearts and keep you coming back for more. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients and dive into creating your own sticky, garlicky deliciousness tonight.
“`
Print
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is a flavorful and satisfying stir-fried noodle dish featuring tender marinated chicken strips cooked with colorful vegetables and a glossy, sticky garlic sauce. Perfect as a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with an optional spicy kick, all coated over tender noodles for a delightful taste and texture combination.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground white or black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
For the noodles:
- 250 g dried egg noodles, wheat noodles, or rice noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned (thin matchsticks)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage or napa cabbage (optional)
- 3–4 spring onions (scallions), sliced (whites and greens separated)
- 4–6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1–2 fresh red chilies, finely sliced (optional, for heat)
For the sticky garlic sauce:
- 4 tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
- 1 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth; optional but recommended)
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2–3 tbsp hoisin sauce (for extra stickiness and sweetness)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3–4 tbsp honey or brown sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1/3 cup water or low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp chili sauce or sriracha (optional, to taste)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For garnish:
- 1–2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
- Extra sliced spring onion greens
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, pepper, and salt. Mix well until every piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes or up to 1 hour in the fridge for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain immediately and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. Toss with 1 tsp of oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Make the sticky garlic sauce: In a medium bowl or measuring jug, add soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar, water or stock, cornstarch, chili sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk until the cornstarch and honey/sugar are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more honey/sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or soy for saltiness.
- Stir-fry the aromatics and vegetables: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for about 1–2 minutes until slightly softened. Add the carrot, bell pepper, and cabbage (if using). Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until bright and just tender but still crisp. Add the white parts of the spring onions, minced garlic, and sliced fresh chilies (if using). Stir-fry for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In the same wok or pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer as much as possible. Let it sear undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to get a bit of color, then stir-fry for 4–6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. If the pan looks dry or the chicken starts to catch, add 1–2 tbsp water and deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Combine chicken with sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Give the prepared sticky garlic sauce a quick stir as the cornstarch tends to settle, and pour it into the pan with the cooked chicken. Stir constantly as it comes to a simmer. The sauce will begin to thicken and turn glossy in 1–2 minutes. Let it bubble gently until it becomes thick, sticky, and coats the chicken pieces well. If it thickens too much, add 1–2 tbsp water to loosen.
- Add noodles and vegetables: Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the sticky garlic chicken. Return the stir-fried vegetables to the pan as well. Using tongs, gently toss everything together for 2–3 minutes over medium heat so that the noodles are fully coated in the sticky sauce and everything is heated through. Add the green parts of the spring onions and toss once more. Adjust seasoning with a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of salt if needed.
- Serve: Transfer the sticky garlic chicken noodles to plates or a large serving platter. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, extra spring onion greens, and coriander if desired. Serve hot, optionally with lime wedges, chili oil, or extra chili sauce on the side.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for up to 1 hour in the fridge for more intense flavor.
- Use your preferred type of noodles: egg noodles, wheat noodles, or rice noodles all work well.
- Adjust sweetness and heat in the sticky garlic sauce to your taste by modifying honey/brown sugar and chili sauce quantities.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when stir-frying the aromatics; stir quickly over medium-high heat.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftover noodles can get soggy.
- Optional garnishes like fresh coriander and toasted sesame seeds add freshness and texture contrast.
