Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are a quick and flavorful dish combining tender chicken pieces with perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a rich, sticky garlic sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting meal balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors with a touch of brightness, making it perfect for busy weeknights or comforting homemade dinners.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using tamari and gluten-free noodles)
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, sliced into bite-sized strips
Aromatics & Sauces
- 4–5 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
Noodles & Garnishes
- 8 oz cooked noodles (egg noodles, ramen, spaghetti or gluten-free rice noodles)
- 2 green onions or a small bunch of chives, chopped
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
Optional Ingredients for Variations
- Vegetarian: Firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms instead of chicken
- Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, shredded carrots (amount as desired)
- Spicy: Fresh sliced jalapeños or chili oil drizzle
- Gluten-Free: Tamari and gluten-free noodles
- Herbs: Fresh basil or cilantro instead of green onions
- Step 1: Prep the Ingredients – Finely mince the garlic to release maximum flavor. Slice the chicken into bite-sized strips for even and quick cooking. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken – Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Sticky Garlic Sauce – In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Stir in the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and rice vinegar, mixing well to combine into a glossy sticky sauce.
- Step 4: Combine Chicken and Noodles – Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sauce. Add the drained noodles and toss everything together to evenly coat the noodles and warm through, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Finish with Sesame Oil and Garnish – Remove the pan from heat and drizzle toasted sesame oil over the noodles for a rich aroma. Toss once more, then sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives and red chili flakes if desired.
Notes
- Cook garlic gently on medium heat to avoid bitterness.
- Use warm noodles to help them absorb the sauce better.
- Taste the sauce and adjust honey or soy sauce to balance sweetness and saltiness.
- Cook chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and ensure even searing.
- Fresh ingredients like garlic and green onions enhance flavor and garnishing impact.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: sticky garlic chicken noodles, garlic chicken noodles, quick chicken noodle recipe, easy chicken dinner, Asian chicken noodles, gluten-free chicken noodles, family-friendly chicken dish