Description
These Thai Peanut Chicken Noodle Jars are a vibrant and convenient meal perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. Featuring a creamy homemade peanut sauce layered with cooked chicken, rice noodles, and fresh vegetables, this recipe balances savory, tangy, and spicy flavors with a refreshing crunch. Ready to eat straight from the jar or tossed in a bowl, these noodle jars offer a healthy, flavorful, and portable Thai-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Sauce
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1–2 tsp sriracha (optional, for heat)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2–3 tbsp warm water (to thin)
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cooked rice noodles (or soba noodles), cooled
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1 cup thinly sliced bell pepper (red, yellow, or both)
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Make the Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha (if using), minced garlic, and enough warm water to reach a smooth and pourable consistency.
- Prepare the Jars: Begin layering the ingredients in 4 large mason jars or similar containers, starting with the peanut sauce as the bottom layer.
- Add Chicken: Divide the cooked chicken breast evenly among the jars, allowing it to soak in the peanut sauce for enhanced flavor.
- Layer Noodles and Vegetables: Add the cooled rice noodles on top of the chicken, followed by shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced bell peppers, layering evenly across the jars.
- Top with Herbs and Nuts: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and roasted peanuts as the top layer to keep them fresh and add a satisfying crunch.
- Seal and Store: Screw on the lids tightly and refrigerate the jars for up to 4 days, making them ideal for meal prep.
- Serve: When ready to eat, shake the jar vigorously to coat all ingredients in the peanut sauce, or pour the contents into a bowl and toss to combine. Serve with fresh lime wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Notes
- For gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Adjust sriracha amount based on your preferred spice level or omit for a mild flavor.
- Use maple syrup as a vegan substitute for honey.
- This recipe is ideal for meal prep and keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Ensure noodles are cooled to room temperature before layering to prevent sogginess.
- To add extra freshness, consider adding sliced green onions or shredded cabbage.
