If you’re hunting for a perfect weeknight dinner that’s bold, creamy, and loaded with texture, your search ends here: Peanut Chicken Noodles are deliciously savory, just the right amount of nutty, and ready to swoop in as your new comfort food obsession. Each slurp is a tangle of tender noodles, juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a wildly addictive peanut sauce — all finished with a shower of crunchy peanuts and cilantro. The best part? This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, which means more time enjoying and less time fussing in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of simple, vivid ingredients come together to create a vibrant masterpiece. Each addition has a special purpose: from providing the protein foundation to adding color, crunch, and that irresistible creamy bite of peanut sauce.
- Rice noodles or spaghetti (8 ounces): These serve as the perfect neutral canvas for absorbing every drop of the rich peanut sauce.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Infuses the whole dish with a subtle roasted, toasty aroma.
- Neutral oil—like canola or avocado (1 tablespoon): Great for stir-frying without competing with other flavors.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (2, sliced thin): Quick-cooking protein that soaks up every bit of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple, but crucial for seasoning the chicken.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings depth and an aromatic punch.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Adds bright color and subtle sweetness.
- Red bell pepper (1, thinly sliced): For a pop of crunch and vibrant hue.
- Green onions (1/4 cup, sliced): These add freshness and a hint of bite.
- Chopped roasted peanuts (1/4 cup): The ultimate crunchy topping every great peanut chicken noodles recipe needs.
- Chopped cilantro for garnish: A fresh, herbal finish that ties the whole bowl together.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/3 cup): The star ingredient — gives the sauce its signature richness.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): For that essential salty, umami backbone.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds sweetness and a sticky, almost barbecue-like depth.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens and balances out the creamy sauce.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tablespoon): A touch of sweetness makes all the flavors sing.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 teaspoon): Lends aromatic warmth and zing.
- Sriracha (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a little heat in their peanut chicken noodles.
- Warm water (2–4 tablespoons): Use as needed to make your sauce just the right consistency.
How to Make Peanut Chicken Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking your rice noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and rinse under cold water. This extra step not only cools them down quickly (so you can handle them sooner), but it also prevents sticking — nothing ruins peanut chicken noodles faster than a clumpy nest of noodles. Set them aside while you prep everything else.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Dreamy Peanut Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, and sriracha if using. Slowly whisk in the warm water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce becomes smooth, pourable, and lush. The sauce should be thick enough to cling to noodles, but loose enough to pour. Taste and adjust for salt, sweetness, or spice as you please — this sauce is the soul of peanut chicken noodles!
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat both oils in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden on the edges. Don’t be shy with the browning; it adds depth and a bit of irresistible crispness!
Step 4: Stir-fry the Aromatics and Veggies
Once the chicken is ready, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Add the shredded carrots and sliced red bell pepper, giving everything a good toss. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes — you want the vegetables to soften ever so slightly, while still holding onto their color and crunch.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Add the cooked noodles and peanut sauce right into the skillet. Use tongs to toss and turn the noodles, chicken, and veggies together until every strand is coated and those heavenly aromas fill your kitchen. Let everything heat through for a minute so the sauce marries beautifully with the rest of the ingredients.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Spoon the peanut chicken noodles into bowls. Sprinkle generously with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts for that signature crunch, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for brightness. That finishing touch will make every bite a delight!
How to Serve Peanut Chicken Noodles
Garnishes
When it comes to toppings, be generous! A handful of roasted peanuts and an extra sprinkle of cilantro or green onions add texture, freshness, and color. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try a squeeze of lime or a dash more sriracha on top for a flavor kick. Garnishes are the secret to elevating your peanut chicken noodles from great to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Pair these savory, creamy noodles with something light and fresh — think crisp cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or a simple miso soup. These sides keep the meal balanced and brighten the palate between flavorful bites of peanut chicken noodles. If you want to keep things super casual, a little bowl of pickled veggies is the perfect crunchy surprise on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your peanut chicken noodles in takeout-style boxes at a casual dinner party, or nestle the noodles inside butter lettuce cups for an interactive, hand-held version. You can also layer all the components in a mason jar for a make-ahead lunch that looks as good as it tastes. However you serve it, let the colorful veggies and toppings shine front and center!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen even more overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch extra special. Just keep the garnishes separate until you’re ready to eat, so they stay crisp.
Freezing
To freeze, divide cooled peanut chicken noodles into portion-sized airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months. When making a big batch for future cravings, leave off the fresh herbs and peanuts until serving so every bowl tastes just as bright and fresh as the first day.
Reheating
For the best texture and flavor, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water as needed to loosen up the sauce. A quick zap in the microwave also works! Finish with a fresh sprinkle of peanuts and cilantro to revive all those vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I make Peanut Chicken Noodles vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the chicken for cubed tofu or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, and the peanut sauce will complement any protein you choose. This dish is wonderfully flexible for all diets.
What noodles work best for Peanut Chicken Noodles?
Rice noodles are classic and gluten-free, but regular or whole wheat spaghetti works beautifully if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook whichever noodles you choose until al dente so they don’t get mushy once tossed in the sauce.
How spicy are these noodles?
The default recipe offers just a little heat from the sriracha, but you can easily adjust the spice level to your taste. Leave it out entirely for a mild version, or double it if you like things fiery. A few chili flakes on top are another great option.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter in the sauce?
Using crunchy peanut butter adds little flecks of peanut to the sauce, giving extra texture and hearty flavor. If you love crunch, go for it! Just whisk it well and add a splash more warm water if needed to get a smooth, pourable consistency.
Is it okay to make Peanut Chicken Noodles ahead of time?
Yes! Peanut chicken noodles actually get better as the flavors develop. Just wait to add garnishes until right before serving for the freshest texture. This makes it an ideal meal prep or next-day lunch option.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a cozy, colorful, totally crave-worthy meal, give Peanut Chicken Noodles a try! It’s a foolproof way to serve up comfort, flavor, and fun all in one bowl. Trust me, once you taste that silky peanut sauce wrapped around tender noodles and juicy chicken, this dish will quickly become a weekly staple. Dive in and enjoy every bite!
Print
Peanut Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with these Peanut Chicken Noodles. Tender chicken strips, crisp vegetables, and rice noodles are coated in a creamy peanut sauce, creating a delicious Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Rice Noodles:
8 ounces rice noodles or spaghetti,
Chicken:
1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon neutral oil, 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced), salt and pepper, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 1/4 cup green onions, 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts, chopped cilantro for garnish
Peanut Sauce:
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (optional), 2–4 tablespoons warm water
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare noodles according to package instructions, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare Peanut Sauce: Whisk together all peanut sauce ingredients until smooth and pourable.
- Cook Chicken: Sauté seasoned chicken in oils until cooked through and browned.
- Add Vegetables: Stir-fry garlic, carrots, and bell pepper until tender.
- Combine: Toss cooked noodles and peanut sauce with chicken and vegetables until well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Top with green onions, peanuts, and cilantro.
Notes
- This dish can be served warm or cold as a noodle salad.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a variation.
- Leftovers make a great next-day lunch and hold up well in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
