Easy 15-Minute Chicken Stir Fry Noodles Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Dried Noodles: I usually opt for egg noodles because they cook quickly and have a nice texture. However, rice noodles are a great gluten-free alternative. You could even use whole wheat noodles for added nutrition!

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well, but if you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Leftover cooked chicken or even shrimp can also replace the chicken.

Veggies: This recipe is very flexible! You can swap broccoli for snow peas or use bell peppers of different colors for a vibrant dish. Carrots can also be replaced with zucchini or snap peas.

Sauces: Soy sauce is the star, but if you’re looking for less sodium, low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) is fantastic. If you want a vegetarian option, skip the oyster sauce or use mushroom sauce.

How Do I Get My Chicken to Cook Perfectly?

Cooking chicken well is key to a great stir fry. Here’s how to do it:

• Slice the chicken thinly against the grain. This helps it cook faster and keeps it tender.
• Use medium-high heat for a quick cook. It should take about 4-5 minutes until it’s no longer pink.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you add too much chicken at once, it will steam instead of sear.

By following these tips, you’ll get delicious, tender chicken every time!

Easy 15-Minute Chicken Stir Fry Noodles

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) dried noodles (e.g., egg noodles or rice noodles)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 15 minutes in total—5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. It’s super quick and perfect for a busy evening when you want something healthy and flavorful!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside for later.

2. Mix the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce (if using), honey or brown sugar, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. This mixture will give a flavorful boost to your stir fry. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken:

Heat the vegetable or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

In the same pan, add a splash more oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry these veggies for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still have a nice crunch.

5. Combine Everything:

Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and toss everything together with tongs or a spatula until everything is well combined and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.

6. Final Touches:

Stir in the sliced green onions and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat, and if you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra touch.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your delicious chicken stir fry noodles immediately. Dig in and enjoy your quick, tasty meal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option. Always pat it dry before adding it to the pan for a better sear!

What Can I Substitute for Noodles?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option, or even quinoa for a gluten-free choice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for fresh vegetables.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or a little bit of soy sauce to keep things moist.

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?

Yes! To make it vegetarian or vegan, simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken-based sauces and skip the oyster sauce. It’s still going to be delicious!