Some nights i just want a quick meal that still taste great. this chicken stir fry with noodles does just that, mixing juicy chicken bits, bright veggies and soft noodles in a tasty sauce. it also shows how you can change stir fry to what you like or what’s in your kitchen.
What is Chicken Stir Fry with Noodles?
Chicken stir fry with noodles is basically cooking strips of chicken and veggies real quick in a hot pan while you keep stirring. this stir fry method comes from asian cooking thats been around for ages, letting you make food real fast but still keep ingredients fresh. high heat cooks everything evenly but wont make your veggies all soggy.
Usually you toss in colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots and maybe snow peas, so you get good vitamins and color too. the noodles soak up the sauce and go great with tender chicken and crunchy veggies. you can use egg noodles, rice noodles, or even whole grain ones if you want more fiber.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Stir Fry with Noodles
This dish not only tastes good, it also gives you a balanced meal with lean protein from chicken, carbs from noodles and vitamins from veggies. depending on your veggies you might get lots of vitamins A, C and K plus fiber thats good for digestion.
Compared to fast food, homemade stir fry can be way healthier because you decide how much oil and sauce to use. you could pick whole grain noodles for extra fiber or low-sodium sauces to cut back on salt. small changes like these make your meal healthier but still full of flavor.
Ingredients for Chicken Stir Fry with Noodles
You’ll need a mix of basics and optional extras. here’s what i usually grab:
- Chicken: breast or thigh cut into thin strips for quick cooking.
- Noodles: egg noodles, rice noodles or whole grain—pick your fav.
- Vegetables: a bunch of colorful stuff, like:
- Bell peppers (any color)
- Broccoli florets
- Carrot slices
- Snow peas
- Onions
- Mushrooms
- Sauces & seasonings:
- Soy sauce
- Garlic (fresh or powder)
- Ginger (fresh if you can)
- Sesame oil
- Chili flakes or sriracha for heat (optional)
- Optional add-ins:
- Shrimp, beef strips or tofu instead of chicken
- Green onions as garnish
- Sesame seeds for crunch
Directions: How to Make Chicken Stir Fry with Noodles
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prep Everything: Slice chicken into thin strips, chop veggies into bite-sized pieces. Cook noodles by package directions then rinse with cold water so they dont stick.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a wok or big pan on high and add oil. When it’s hot, stir fry chicken for about 4-5 mins until it’s cooked and a little browned. if you marinate it first it comes out juicier.
3. Stir-Fry the Veggies: Start with carrots and broccoli since they take longer, then add quicker veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. keep tossing for 3-4 mins so they stay crisp-tender.
4. Mix Everything: Toss in the noodles, pour in sauce and stir for 2-3 mins till all is coated and warm. you wanna make sure the noodles soak up the sauce.
5. Final Touches: Take pan off heat, sprinkle sesame seeds or green onions if you like. serve it hot with extra sauce on side if you want more kick. dig in!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Stir Fry with Noodles
- Use a wok if possible: its great for even heat and tossing ingredients.
- Keep your pan hot: that sears chicken and veggies instead of steaming them.
- Timing is key: put veggies in by how long they take to cook so nothing gets mushy.
- Make it yours: swap noodles, use gluten-free or vegan protein like tofu.
Variations and Pairings
Variations
- Switch proteins: try shrimp, beef or tofu for different tastes.
- Different sauces: use teriyaki, chili garlic or hoisin for new flavors.
Pairings
- Side dishes: spring rolls, dumplings or a simple asian salad go well.
- Beverages: green tea or an asian-inspired cocktail balance flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: cool it first, then keep in airtight containers so it stays fresh.
- Reheating: oven works best to keep texture; microwave in short bursts, stirring each time.
- Eat within: 3-4 days in the fridge, and don’t refreeze after heating again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do i make it spicier? add more chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking or on top when serving.
can I swap chicken for other proteins? yep, shrimp, beef or tofu all work fine.
what noodles are best? egg, rice or whole grain noodles each give a different texture and taste.
how long does it last? about 3-4 days in the fridge in a sealed container.
can i prep in advance? you can chop ingredients earlier, but cook just before eating for best taste and texture.
Conclusion
Chicken stir fry with noodles is a simple, tasty meal you can tweak however you want. it’s great for busy nights, and you can change up proteins, veggies or sauces to make it new every time. give it a try and share how you made it your own!
chicken stir fry with noodles
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or wok
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 cutting board
- 1 pot for boiling noodles
- 1 colander
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces noodles (e.g., Chow Mein or egg noodles)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots) Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- to taste Sesame seeds for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with black pepper. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Toss everything together to combine and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the stir fry hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
