Peanut Chicken and Noodles is the kind of comfort food that fits every craving—tender chicken, silky noodles, and the most irresistible creamy peanut sauce all tangle together in a single bowl. In under 30 minutes, you can transform pantry staples and a few colorful veggies into a show-stopping meal, perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or even meal prep lunches. This Asian-inspired recipe combines unbeatable flavor with easy prep, so you can spend more time enjoying and less time stressing in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Peanut Chicken and Noodles is how a handful of simple, accessible ingredients transforms into vibrant layers of flavor and texture. Each one matters—from the noodles to the finishing garnishes—creating that craveable balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and nutty notes you’ll come back to again and again.
- Rice noodles or spaghetti (8 oz): Go authentic with rice noodles or use spaghetti—either option soaks up the delicious peanut sauce perfectly.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound, thinly sliced): Sliced thin, the chicken cooks up fast and absorbs the sauce for juicy bites in every forkful.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Just a touch helps everything sizzle and keeps the chicken tender, never dry.
- Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix (2 cups): Adds crunch and color, making the dish feel fresh and bright.
- Carrot (1, julienned): Sweet earthiness and vibrant orange strips that pop against the noodles.
- Chopped green onions (¼ cup): Tossed in at the end for a punchy, fresh finish.
- Chopped peanuts (¼ cup, for garnish): The must-have finishing crunch that completes every bite.
- Fresh cilantro or lime wedges (optional): These make your bowls fragrant and just a little bit zesty.
- Creamy peanut butter (⅓ cup): The rich base of your luscious peanut sauce.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Delivers that deep, salty umami that keeps you coming back for seconds.
- Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Pops of tang that lighten up the sauce beautifully.
- Honey or brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Just a hint for balance, letting the other flavors shine.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle adds irresistible toasty depth.
- Grated fresh ginger (1 teaspoon): Brings vibrant zing to the sauce.
- Minced garlic (1 clove): A little goes a long way for savory fragrance.
- Warm water (¼–⅓ cup, to thin): Makes that peanut sauce just the right texture for tossing.
How to Make Peanut Chicken and Noodles
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Let’s get those noodles ready! Start by cooking your rice noodles or spaghetti according to the package directions. You’re looking for just-tender noodles that can hold up to all that wonderful sauce. Once they’re cooked, drain them well and set aside. Sometimes, I even give them a quick rinse to prevent sticking (especially if they’ll sit for a few minutes before meeting the sauce).
Step 2: Whisk Up the Creamy Peanut Sauce
Grab a small bowl and whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Slowly drizzle in the warm water, just enough to reach that perfect pourable consistency. Taste as you go—you want something salty, nutty, sweet, and totally spoon-lickable!
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. Working in a single layer, add the thinly sliced chicken and let it sizzle away for 5–6 minutes. Turn occasionally so it browns nicely and cooks through. You want any juices to evaporate so the chicken gets those golden edges that really stand out in Peanut Chicken and Noodles.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Toss the shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix) and your julienned carrot straight into the pan with the chicken. Sauté everything for another 2 minutes, just long enough for the vegetables to soften a bit while keeping their crunch and bright colors. This combo makes the whole dish feel extra fresh and satisfying.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Dial the heat down to medium, then add your cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour the peanut sauce over the top, then toss and tangle everything together until the noodles are glossy and everything’s evenly coated and warmed through. Sprinkle over the chopped green onions and peanuts for a final flourish—your Peanut Chicken and Noodles is ready to serve!
How to Serve Peanut Chicken and Noodles
Garnishes
Never underestimate the power of a good garnish! A generous sprinkle of chopped peanuts gives every bite delightful crunch, while green onions add sharp freshness. Fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime bring brightness and a pop of color. If you love a little heat, don’t be shy—drizzle some sriracha or red pepper flakes over the top for that perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Peanut Chicken and Noodles is a standout on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with light, crunchy sides. Try a simple cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or crisp snap peas to balance out the richness. You can even add a side of pickled veggies for an extra tangy and refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving a crowd or looking to impress? For fun, twirl the noodles into individual bowls and top each with extra peanuts and fresh herbs. Or serve family-style from a big platter. If you’re meal prepping, portion into glass containers and garnish right before eating—it will look just as inviting on day three as it did on day one!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peanut Chicken and Noodles keep surprisingly well! Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may soak up some sauce as they chill, so don’t be afraid to add a splash of water or extra sauce when reheating to loosen everything up.
Freezing
While the dish is best when fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place cooled Peanut Chicken and Noodles in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before planning to reheat for lunch or a quick weeknight dinner.
Reheating
To reheat, add a tablespoon or two of water to loosen the sauce, then warm in the microwave in 30-second bursts (stirring between each) until piping hot. You can also reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low, tossing until everything is heated through and the sauce is creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While rice noodles are classic and soak up the sauce beautifully, spaghetti or linguine are great alternatives if that’s what you have handy. Soba or udon noodles also work well for a unique texture in your Peanut Chicken and Noodles.
How do I make this vegetarian?
Easy swap alert: Replace the chicken with cubed tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Press firm tofu and brown it in the skillet just like you would the chicken. The rest of the recipe remains exactly the same!
Is this dish spicy?
Peanut Chicken and Noodles as written is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily dial up the heat with a spoonful of sriracha, a pinch of chili flakes, or even a sliced red chili mixed into the sauce if you like things spicy.
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
You sure can. Almond butter makes a delicious substitute and will add a slightly different (but just as creamy and tasty) flavor profile to the sauce. Use the same measurements and taste as you go!
How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?
After draining, give the cooked noodles a quick rinse under cool water and toss with a drop of oil to prevent sticking—especially if you’re not assembling the Peanut Chicken and Noodles immediately. Once tossed with sauce, the noodles loosen up and mingle just right.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give Peanut Chicken and Noodles a try soon—it’s one of those magical dishes that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Every bowl brings happy, slurpable noodles and a creamy sauce that keeps everyone coming back for “just one more bite.” Happy cooking!
Print
Peanut Chicken and 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
This Peanut Chicken and Noodles recipe is a delicious and easy Asian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, rice noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful peanut sauce. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, making it a satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Rice Noodles:
- 8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti
Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1 carrot (julienned)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or lime wedges (optional)
Peanut Sauce:
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ¼–⅓ cup warm water to thin
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all the peanut sauce ingredients, adding warm water to achieve desired consistency.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Add Vegetables and Sauce: Add cabbage, carrot, and peanut sauce to the skillet. Toss in cooked noodles until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Top with green onions, peanuts, and garnish with cilantro or lime wedges before serving.
Notes
- Add a splash of sriracha for extra heat.
- This dish can be made with leftover rotisserie chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *