I love the combination of flavors in my Chicken Teriyaki Noodles Recipe. This dish is a delightful mixture of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and delicious noodles all coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. It’s a great weeknight meal that can easily be made in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to dinner for my busy life.
Growing up, I often asked my mom to make teriyaki chicken. I remember sitting at the table, inhaling the sweet aroma wafting through our kitchen. This dish brings back warm memories and has become a staple in my own home. Plus, it’s so versatile that I can serve it with rice or noodles, depending on my mood.
Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
To prepare Chicken Teriyaki Noodles at home, gather these simple ingredients:
Chicken Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Noodle Ingredients:
- 8 oz uncooked noodles (spaghetti or lo mein work well)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas)
Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
How to Make Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
Making Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how I do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside. Drizzle a little oil over the noodles to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
When the chicken is almost done, add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional minute until it coats everything nicely.
Step 6: Combine with Noodles
Finally, add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the noodles are coated in the delicious teriyaki sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the Chicken Teriyaki Noodles to serving plates. If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for an extra crunch and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
I’ve picked up some tips over the years to ensure my Chicken Teriyaki Noodles shine every time:
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables makes a noticeable difference in taste. Try to incorporate a variety of colors.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from drying out. It should be tender and juicy.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you enjoy a sweeter teriyaki flavor, feel free to add more honey or brown sugar. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- Customize Your Dish: This recipe is flexible. Feel free to use different proteins, like beef, shrimp, or tofu. You can even swap out the noodles for rice if you prefer that.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
There’s something special about Chicken Teriyaki Noodles that makes it a hit in my household. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, allowing me to spend more time with my family and less time in the kitchen.
The rich flavors and delightful aroma make this dish irresistible. Every bite is a burst of teriyaki goodness with a delightful crunch from the vegetables. Plus, it’s a great way to get everyone to eat their veggies without any fuss.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the things I love most about this Chicken Teriyaki Noodles recipe is that it makes fantastic leftovers. Here’s how I store it:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: When it’s time to eat again, simply reheat the noodles in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may want to add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist.
This meal is perfect for meal prep too. I often make a double batch so that I can have easy lunches ready for the week.
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles can be enjoyed on their own, but I also love to add some complementary dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Egg Rolls: Crispy vegetable or chicken egg rolls offer a perfect crunchy side to round out your meal.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce or dipping sauces are a refreshing addition.
- Side Salad: A light salad with a sesame dressing can balance the richness of the noodles.
Nutritional Information About Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
When I make Chicken Teriyaki Noodles, I appreciate that it provides a great mix of protein, carbs, and vegetables. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional aspects:
- Protein: This dish is protein-rich thanks to the chicken, making it filling and satisfying.
- Veggies: The array of colorful vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, which helps make it a nutritious option.
- Balanced Meal: By including noodles, protein, and veggies, this meal is balanced and hearty.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Certainly! If you’re short on time, a good quality store-bought teriyaki sauce can be a great shortcut. Just be mindful of the sodium content.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce and check the noodles for gluten-free options.
What vegetables can I use?
Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even baby corn are excellent options to switch things up.
How spicy is this dish?
This Chicken Teriyaki Noodles Recipe is not inherently spicy. If you like heat, consider adding some red chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles are one of my favorite recipes, not only for their flavor but also for the memories they bring. They’re quick, easy, and satisfyingly delicious.