Craving a quick and delicious meal? Look no further than Garlic Chili Chicken Noodles! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a tasty dish loaded with flavor. I’ll guide you through simple ingredients, easy steps, and handy tips, so you can impress your family or friends without the fuss. Dive in and discover how to make this delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Chili Chicken Noodles
– 250g egg noodles
– 200g chicken breast, thinly sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red chili, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 3 spring onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
These main ingredients form the base of your dish. The egg noodles provide a soft texture. Chicken breast adds protein and flavor. Garlic and chili bring spice and aroma, making the dish exciting.
Pantry Staples
– Soy sauce
– Sesame oil
– Vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper
These pantry staples are key. Soy sauce adds a savory depth. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. Use salt and pepper to enhance all the tastes in your meal.
Fresh Ingredients for Garnishing
– Fresh cilantro leaves
– Lime wedges
Garnishing is important. Fresh cilantro adds color and freshness. Lime wedges give a zesty kick, balancing the flavors of the dish. These finishing touches make your Garlic Chili Chicken Noodles pop!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Noodles
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add 250g of egg noodles to the water. Cook them according to the package instructions. When they are al dente, drain the noodles in a colander. Rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process. Set the noodles aside to drain completely.
Preparing the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl it around. Add 200g of thinly sliced chicken breast to the hot skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Stir-fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes. Cook until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked.
Combining Ingredients in Skillet
Once the chicken is cooked, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 finely chopped red chili to the skillet. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes. This helps the garlic become fragrant, but watch not to burn it. Next, add sliced bell pepper and chopped spring onions. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes. The veggies should soften but still have a nice crunch. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over everything. Mix well to coat the ingredients. Then, gently fold in the cooked egg noodles. Toss everything together for about 2-3 minutes. The noodles should be heated through and mixed well with the chicken and veggies. Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your garlic chili chicken noodles hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, and lime wedges for a zesty touch.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfectly Cook Noodles
To cook the egg noodles just right, follow these steps. Boil water in a pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Once boiling, add the noodles and stir. Check the package for cooking time. You want them al dente, not too soft. When done, drain the noodles in a colander. Rinse them under cold water to stop cooking. This keeps them firm and ready for your dish.
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you like heat, add more chili. If you prefer mild, use less. Start with one chili and taste as you cook. You can always add more later. Remember, the garlic adds flavor without too much heat. If you want extra spice, try a dash of chili flakes. This way, you control the heat level to fit your taste.
Meal Prep Tips for Quick Dinners
Prep your ingredients ahead for easy cooking. Slice the chicken and veggies in advance. Store them in the fridge in separate containers. You can also cook a larger batch of noodles. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This saves time on busy nights. When you’re ready to cook, just heat everything and combine. Enjoy a quick, tasty meal without all the fuss.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can make a tasty vegetarian version of garlic chili chicken noodles. Replace the chicken with firm tofu. Cut the tofu into cubes and pan-fry until golden. Use the same steps for the sauce and veggies. You can add more bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for extra crunch and flavor. This keeps the dish colorful and satisfying.
Gluten-Free Modifications
For a gluten-free option, switch the soy sauce with tamari. Tamari is gluten-free and works well in this recipe. Ensure your egg noodles are gluten-free too. You can find rice noodles or quinoa noodles at your local store. Both types will still give you that delicious taste.
Using Different Proteins
Feel free to swap out chicken for other proteins. Shrimp or beef are great options. If using shrimp, cook them until they turn pink. For beef, slice it thinly and stir-fry it just like the chicken. You can also use plant-based proteins like seitan or tempeh if you prefer. Each protein brings a unique flavor, so experiment to find your favorite!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your garlic chili chicken noodles fresh, let them cool first. Place the noodles in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating the Noodles
When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, heat for one minute, then stir. Check if it’s warm enough. If not, heat in 30-second bursts. In a skillet, add a splash of water to keep them moist. Warm them over medium heat, stirring often.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze the noodles, portion them out. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each bag with the date. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can use other noodles! Options include rice noodles, udon, or whole wheat noodles. Each type brings its own flavor and texture. Cook them according to package directions. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, try tamari or coconut aminos. Both offer a similar taste. For a gluten-free option, tamari works well. You can also use liquid aminos for a lighter flavor. Adjust the amount to fit your taste.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red chili. You can also add chili flakes or hot sauce. For a different spice, try sriracha or sambal oelek. Start with a little, then taste and adjust until it’s just right for you.
Garlic Chili Chicken Noodles are easy to make and taste great. You learned about key ingredients and how to cook them step by step. I shared tips to help you cook perfect noodles and adjust spice levels. Remember, you can switch proteins or make it vegetarian. Store your leftovers well for later meals. This dish is fun to change up and always satisfying. Try making it your own and enjoy delicious food any night of the week!
