Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are a quick, flavor-packed dish that combines tender chicken, chewy noodles, and a glossy garlic sauce that clings to every bite. The sauce is the star—sticky, slightly sweet, and deeply savory with a punch of garlic. It’s one of those meals that feels like takeout but is easy to whip up at home in under 30 minutes. I once added a handful of broccoli and snap peas for extra crunch, and it turned into a complete meal that was just as delicious the next day. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy dinner, or meal prep, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
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Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles – Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are a savory-sweet stir-fry dish with tender chicken, chewy noodles, and a sticky garlic sauce that clings to every bite for a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rice noodles or egg noodles
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Toss chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Add cooked noodles and chicken back to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in the sticky garlic sauce.
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For extra veggies, add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
- Adjust sweetness and spice by altering honey and red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast or thighs – Tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken soak up the sauce beautifully.
Noodles – Egg noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti work as the base.
Soy sauce – Provides deep umami flavor and saltiness.
Oyster sauce – Adds richness and depth to the sticky sauce.
Hoisin sauce – Brings sweetness and complexity.
Brown sugar or honey – Helps the sauce caramelize and achieve that signature sticky texture.
Garlic – The key flavor, used generously for boldness.
Ginger (optional) – Adds warmth and zest to the sauce.
Red pepper flakes or chili paste – A touch of heat to balance the sweetness.
Sesame oil – Infuses the noodles with nutty aroma.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce into a glossy coating.
Green onions – Fresh garnish that brightens the dish.
Sesame seeds (optional) – Add crunch and a finishing touch.
Vegetables (optional) – Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas work beautifully.
Directions
Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Meanwhile, season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic (and ginger if using) and sauté until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the pan. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add cooked noodles and stir until everything is evenly coated and sticky. Adjust seasoning with extra chili flakes, soy sauce, or sugar to taste.
Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh vegetables if desired. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Total time is 25–30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the noodles.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Garlic Noodles – Add more chili paste or sriracha for extra heat.
Vegetarian Version – Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms.
Peanut Twist – Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
Extra Veggie Boost – Add stir-fried broccoli, bok choy, or carrots.
Sweet & Tangy – Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice.
Cheesy Fusion – Top with a sprinkle of mozzarella or Parmesan for a fun twist.
Sesame Lovers’ Version – Add tahini or extra sesame oil to deepen the nutty flavor.
Crispy Chicken Upgrade – Use breaded chicken bites for texture.
Egg Noodle Style – Toss with wide egg noodles for a heartier dish.
Low-Carb Option – Swap noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
FAQs
What kind of noodles work best?
Egg noodles, lo mein noodles, or spaghetti are great options.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just toss it in with the sauce at the end.
How sticky should the sauce be?
It should cling to the noodles without being too thick or dry.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use tofu, tempeh, or extra veggies.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
It adds depth, but you can substitute with extra soy sauce and a touch of sugar.
Can I add eggs?
Yes, scrambled eggs stirred into the noodles work well.
How do I make it spicier?
Increase chili paste, flakes, or add fresh sliced chilies.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes, but store noodles and sauce separately for best texture.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just stir them into the sauce before adding noodles.
Does it taste like takeout?
Yes, but fresher and fully customizable to your preferences.
Conclusion
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are the ultimate comfort meal—sweet, savory, and perfectly garlicky with just the right amount of stickiness. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it feels special enough for a weekend treat. Whether you keep it simple or experiment with add-ins like veggies, spice, or peanut butter, this recipe is endlessly adaptable and always satisfying.
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