Chicken Teriyaki Noodles Recipe

If you’re a fan of sweet and savory flavors, Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is the perfect dish for you. This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken with noodles, all coated in a rich and glossy teriyaki sauce. The result is a delightful meal that’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

What Are Chicken Teriyaki Noodles?

Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is a Japanese-inspired dish that marries juicy, stir-fried chicken with perfectly cooked noodles, all enveloped in a flavorful teriyaki sauce. It’s a popular dish that’s not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a go-to meal for busy days.

The Appeal of Teriyaki Sauce

At the heart of this dish lies the iconic teriyaki sauce — a glossy, slightly sweet, and savory sauce that brings everything together. It’s a classic Japanese sauce that’s used in various dishes, but when paired with chicken and noodles, it creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

A Sweet and Savory Japanese Flavor

Teriyaki sauce is made from a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (a sweet rice wine), which gives it a balance of sweet and salty flavors. Its thick, sticky consistency coats every ingredient, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.

Why Chicken Pairs Well with Teriyaki

Chicken is the perfect protein to pair with teriyaki sauce. Its mild flavor allows the sauce to shine while the tender texture of the chicken makes every bite juicy and satisfying.

Health Benefits of Chicken Teriyaki Noodles

Not only is Chicken Teriyaki Noodles delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a well-rounded meal.

Lean Protein from Chicken

Chicken provides a healthy source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Plus, it’s low in fat, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Nutritional Benefits of Noodles

Noodles, especially if you opt for whole wheat or buckwheat noodles, are a great source of carbohydrates, providing you with the energy you need to get through the day. They also contain fiber, which aids in digestion.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Teriyaki Noodles

To make Chicken Teriyaki Noodles, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Choosing the Right Noodles

You can use a variety of noodles for this dish, depending on your preference. Some popular choices include:

• Soba noodles: Thin buckwheat noodles with a slightly nutty flavor.
• Udon noodles: Thick and chewy wheat noodles that hold up well in stir-fries.
• Rice noodles: Light and gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Key Ingredients for Teriyaki Sauce

To make a traditional teriyaki sauce, you’ll need soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. Some recipes also include garlic and ginger for extra flavor. If you can’t find mirin, you can substitute it with rice vinegar and a little sugar.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Teriyaki Noodles

Ready to make this delicious dish? Follow these simple steps to create Chicken Teriyaki Noodles at home.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot pan with a little oil. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on the outside and fully cooked through.

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and a bit of water. If you like, add minced garlic and ginger for an extra punch of flavor.

Cooking the Noodles

Boil your noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.

Putting It All Together

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing everything together until the noodles are well-coated with the sauce.

Tips for the Best Chicken Teriyaki Noodles

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Teriyaki Noodles turn out perfect every time.

How to Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency

The key to a perfect teriyaki sauce is getting the right consistency. You want the sauce to be thick enough to coat the noodles and chicken but not so thick that it turns sticky. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.

Adjusting the Sweetness Level

Teriyaki sauce can be quite sweet, so if you prefer a less sweet version, simply reduce the amount of sugar. Alternatively, you can use honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.

Variations on Chicken Teriyaki Noodles

One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. Here are a couple of variations to try.

Vegetarian Teriyaki Noodles

If you’re vegetarian, you can easily adapt this recipe by swapping out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Both are excellent sources of plant-based protein and work well with the teriyaki sauce.

Teriyaki Shrimp Noodles

For a seafood twist, try using shrimp instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks quickly, making this version even faster to prepare. Just be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Conclusion

Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its combination of tender chicken, savory noodles, and rich teriyaki sauce, you can’t go wrong!

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
2. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
   Absolutely! While homemade teriyaki sauce is delicious, you can use store-bought sauce for convenience.
3. What vegetables can I add to this dish?
   You can add a variety of vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and crunch.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
   Yes, you can make Chicken Teriyaki Noodles in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
5. Can I freeze Chicken Teriyaki Noodles?
   While the chicken and sauce freeze well, noodles can become mushy when frozen. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to store the chicken and sauce separately from the noodles.
   Yield: 4

   Chicken Teriyaki Noodles Recipe

   

   Print

   If you’re a fan of sweet and savory flavors, Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is the perfect dish for you. This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken with noodles, all coated in a rich and glossy teriyaki sauce. The result is a delightful meal that's ideal for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

   Prep Time 15 minutes

   Cook Time 20 minutes

   Total Time 35 minutes

   Ingredients

   • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
   • 8 oz (225g) noodles (lo mein, soba, or spaghetti)
   • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
   • 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
   • 2 tablespoons honey
   • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
   • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
   • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
   • 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
   • 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
   • 1/2 cup broccoli florets
   • 1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
   • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
   • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional for garnish)

   Instructions

   1. Cook the noodles:
      Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
      
   2. Prepare the teriyaki sauce:
      In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, honey, sesame oil (if using), garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
      
   3. Cook the chicken:
      Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
      
   4. Sauté the vegetables:
      In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
      
   5. Combine chicken and sauce:
      Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
      
   6. Toss in the noodles:
      Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and heated through.
      
   7. Serve:
      Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro (if using). Serve hot.

   Notes

   Vegetable options: Feel free to swap in or add other vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms to suit your taste.

   Spice level: If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

   Noodle choice: You can use any type of noodles for this recipe, such as lo mein, udon, or even regular spaghetti in a pinch.