If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a touch of spice, you are in for a real treat with Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles. This dish brings together tender chicken pieces coated in a luscious garlic-honey sauce, tossed with noodles that soak up every bit of that glorious flavor. It’s comfort food with an irresistible sticky glaze that clings to every strand of noodle, making each bite a mouthwatering experience you’ll want to recreate again and again.

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem straightforward, but they each play a crucial role in creating the perfect Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles. From the salty depth of soy sauce to the zing of fresh ginger and the subtle heat from chili flakes, every element contributes to a vibrant, well-rounded dish.

1 lb chicken breast or thighs: Choose thighs for juicier meat or breasts for a leaner option, both work great when cut into bite-sized pieces.
1/4 cup soy sauce: Provides the essential salty, umami base for the sticky sauce.
3 tbsp honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create that irresistible sticky glaze.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic garlicky goodness that’s impossible to resist.
1 tsp grated ginger: Brings a bright and slightly spicy note that lifts the entire flavor profile.
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional): A gentle kick of heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the other flavors.
2 tbsp cornstarch: Helps the sauce thicken and gives the chicken a deliciously crisp coating when cooked.
2 tbsp vegetable oil: Perfect for crisping the chicken and preventing sticking in the skillet.
8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles): These carry the sauce and texture, so pick your favorite or what you have on hand.
2 green onions, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant crunch and a pop of color to finish off the dish.
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkled on top for a nutty finish that complements the sticky garlic sauce.

How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the optional red chili flakes in a bowl. This simple sauce is the heart of the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, packing layers of flavor that will cling beautifully to your chicken and noodles.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until they’re evenly coated. This step is key for locking in moisture and creating the crispy exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the sticky sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. The sizzle and aroma at this stage are simply irresistible.

Step 4: Simmer in Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to fully coat each piece. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce thickens into that signature sticky glaze, lovingly enveloping every nook and cranny of the chicken.

Step 5: Prepare the Noodles

While the sauce simmers, cook your noodles according to package instructions. Once done, drain them well and set aside. Choosing either rice or egg noodles will give you a slightly different texture, but both are perfect for this dish.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the sticky garlic chicken. Toss everything together thoroughly so the sauce coats both chicken and noodles evenly. This final step ensures every bite delivers maximum flavor.

How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles

Garnishes

Top your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a burst of freshness and nutty crunch. These simple garnishes add the perfect finishing touch that elevates both the look and flavor of the dish.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed or sautéed greens like bok choy or broccoli. A light cucumber salad can also help balance the richness and bring a refreshing contrast to the sticky, flavorful noodles.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in individual lettuce cups or inside hollowed-out bell peppers for a vibrant, handheld meal. You can also layer them in a beautifully crafted bento box alongside your favorite pickled vegetables to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles might soak up a bit more sauce as they rest, so stirring gently before reheating helps restore the original texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the dish, it’s best to store the chicken and noodles separately to preserve texture. Place each in freezer-safe containers or bags, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. You can also microwave, but adding a little moisture before heating will keep those noodles wonderfully tender and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?

Absolutely! While rice noodles or egg noodles work best, you can experiment with udon, soba, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid mushy noodles.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or your favorite meat substitute and keep the sauce as is. The sticky garlic sauce complements plant-based proteins beautifully.

How spicy is this dish with red chili flakes?

The 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes adds a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. Feel free to adjust or omit them depending on your spice preference.

Can I prepare Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in advance for a dinner party?

Definitely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, cook the noodles just before serving, and combine everything last minute for the freshest taste and texture.

What can I substitute for honey in the sauce?

Maple syrup, brown sugar, or agave nectar all work nicely as honey substitutes, providing sweetness and helping achieve that sticky texture.

Final Thoughts

Once you try making Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles, it’s hard not to keep it in regular rotation. It delivers an amazing balance of flavors, textures, and that delightful sticky sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a fantastic way to impress family or friends with minimal fuss and maximum taste. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy every delicious forkful!

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles combine tender chicken pieces with a sweet and savory garlic sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked noodles and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. This quick and flavorful dish makes for an easy weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Instructions

Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes to create a flavorful sticky sauce.
Coat the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until they are evenly coated, which helps to achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Simmer with sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat all pieces and allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Cook the noodles: Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain any excess water and set the noodles aside.
Combine noodles and chicken: Add the cooked noodles into the skillet with the chicken and sticky sauce. Toss everything thoroughly so that the noodles are fully coated with the sauce and well mixed with the chicken.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top before serving for added flavor and a touch of crunch.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat; chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
If you prefer less heat, omit the red chili flakes.
For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and use gluten-free noodles.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
Make sure not to overcook the noodles to maintain their texture when tossing with the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-frying and simmering
Cuisine: Asian-inspired