Description
Satisfy your craving for bold and spicy flavors with Kung Pao Chicken Noodles! This quick and easy stir-fry dish features tender chicken, vibrant noodles, and a savory-sweet sauce with a kick of heat. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a flavorful meal any time!
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz noodles (brown rice udon, ramen, pad thai noodles, or spaghetti)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tbsp chili paste (e.g., sambal oelek)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- ½ cup diced green onion (white parts)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp chili paste (e.g., sambal oelek)
- 1–2 tbsp brown sugar (to taste)
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 1½ tbsp toasted sesame oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (slurry with water)
For Garnish:
- ⅓ cup crushed peanuts
- ⅓ cup diced green onion (green parts)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with tamari or soy sauce, honey, and chili paste. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes. - Cook the Noodles:
Bring salted water to a boil and cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together tamari, peanut butter, rice vinegar, chili paste, brown sugar, ground ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Add the cornstarch slurry and mix until smooth. - Sauté Aromatics:
Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-low heat. Add diced green onion (white parts) and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. - Cook the Chicken:
Turn heat to medium and add marinated chicken. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown. - Combine Sauce and Noodles:
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir and let it simmer until slightly thickened, about 1–2 minutes. Add cooked noodles and toss until evenly coated. - Serve:
Divide into bowls and garnish with crushed peanuts and diced green onion (green parts). Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make It Vegan: Substitute chicken with tofu and honey with maple syrup.
- Spicy Option: Add extra chili paste or red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Vegetable Additions: Include sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
