Imagine a cozy dinner with Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles that are just bursting with flavor! This dish combines tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a sweet and savory garlic sauce, all served on a bed of silky noodles. The honey lends a lovely sweetness while the garlic brings warmth and a hint of bite. It’s creamy without using any cream, making it a perfect choice for those who love rich flavors without sacrificing health. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Ready for something delicious?
Why You’ll Love Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
You’ll absolutely adore these Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for a few fantastic reasons! First off, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s packed with flavor and comfort. The combination of tender chicken and the glossy garlic sauce clinging to the noodles creates a satisfying texture that makes each bite a delight. Plus, it’s super speedy to make, so you can satisfy your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are mostly pantry staples, meaning you can whip it up whenever the mood strikes. And if you’re into meal prep, this dish holds up beautifully, making it a perfect option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Speedy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Packed with flavor: Sweet, savory, and garlicky all at once.
- Pantry-friendly: Made mostly with staples you already have.
- Meal-prep friendly: Great for leftovers and reheating.
- Dietary notes: Can be adapted to suit various diets.
Ingredients for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs – tender protein that soaks up the sauce.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – adds a salty, umami depth.
- 3 tbsp honey – brings sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – gives that awesome garlicky aroma!
- 1 tsp grated ginger – adds a zesty kick to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional) – for a little heat if you like.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch – thickens the sauce for a perfect cling.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – helps to sauté the chicken beautifully.
- 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles) – provides the lovely base.
- 2 green onions, chopped – fresh and crunchy topping.
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional) – adds a nutty finish.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Phase 1 – Prep
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Minimize prep time by mincing garlic and ginger now.
- Boil water for the noodles according to package instructions.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, then add chicken and cook until golden.
- Pour in the sauce mixture and sprinkle cornstarch; stir until thickened.
- Add cooked noodles to the pan, tossing to coat them well.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Plate your noodles and chicken in bowls.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Dig in and enjoy while warm!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use thighs instead of breasts for juicier chicken.
- Let the sauce cook a minute longer for a thicker texture.
- Make a double batch for an easy next-day lunch option.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for an hour beforehand.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is undercooking the chicken. Always make sure it’s cooked through — it should be opaque and no longer pink in the middle. A great visual cue is when the juices run clear.
Another frequent issue is using too little sauce. This dish shines with a good coating of sauce, so don’t skimp on it. You can always adjust the seasoning if it’s too strong!
Lastly, overcooking the noodles can lead to a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions closely, and rinse them under cold water after draining to stop the cooking process.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles.
- Dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free!
- Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or diced fresh chilies.
- Herbal: Toss in some fresh basil or cilantro before serving.
- Cooking method: Try it in an Instant Pot for a quick fix!
How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Best Pairings
- Pair with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a crunchy side.
- Serve with a side of spring rolls for a full meal.
Toppings & Garnishes
- Top with chopped peanuts for added crunch.
- Add lime wedges for a zesty kick.
Drink Pairing
- A refreshing iced tea is a perfect match.
- For something bubbly, try a ginger ale.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing
You can freeze the noodles and chicken for up to a month, but be aware the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For stovetop, use a skillet over medium heat until warm.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, you can add frozen cauliflower! Just allow extra cooking time.
How to make it extra creamy without cream? A splash of coconut milk will add creaminess without dairy.
Can I double it? Absolutely! Just increase the ingredients accordingly and use a larger pan.
How to fix a too-thick sauce? Add a little water or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
If you’ve been looking for a savory, satisfying meal, these Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are your answer! Delightfully creamy without any cream and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for busy nights. Don’t forget to rate this recipe or leave a comment, and check out our Noodle Recipes page for more tasty ideas!
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs tender protein that soaks up the sauce.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce adds a salty, umami depth.
- 3 tbsp honey brings sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced gives that awesome garlicky aroma!
- 1 tsp grated ginger adds a zesty kick to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional) for a little heat if you like.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch thickens the sauce for a perfect cling.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil helps to sauté the chicken beautifully.
- 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles) provides the lovely base.
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional) adds a nutty finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Minimize prep time by mincing garlic and ginger now.
- Boil water for the noodles according to package instructions.
Cooking
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, then add chicken and cook until golden.
- Pour in the sauce mixture and sprinkle cornstarch; stir until thickened.
- Add cooked noodles to the pan, tossing to coat them well.
Serving
- Plate your noodles and chicken in bowls.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Dig in and enjoy while warm!