Chili Garlic Shrimp Noodles Recipe
Chili Garlic Shrimp Noodles are a spicy, savory, and incredibly flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Packed with juicy shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and chewy noodles, this recipe is elevated by the bold flavors of chili, garlic, and soy sauce. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine or simply love quick and delicious meals, this recipe will satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Packed with Flavor: A bold combination of spicy, garlicky, and umami flavors.
- Great for Any Occasion: A crowd-pleaser for dinner parties or simple family meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Marinate the Shrimp
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper.
- Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- Pro Tip
- Using cornstarch in the marinade gives the shrimp a velvety texture and prevents overcooking.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Boil the Noodles
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Pro Tip
- Toss the cooked noodles with a teaspoon of oil to keep them from clumping together.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat the Skillet
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Shrimp
- Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and chili flakes.
- Pro Tip
- Taste and adjust the sauce as needed. Add more honey for sweetness or chili garlic sauce for heat.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Heat Oil
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same skillet.
- Cook the Garlic
- Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables
- Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Pro Tip
- Don’t overcook the vegetables—they should retain a slight crunch.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Add the Noodles
- Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the Sauce
- Drizzle the sauce over the noodles and toss to coat evenly.
- Add the Shrimp
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
- Pro Tip
- Use tongs for even mixing without breaking the noodles.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish
- Top the dish with green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Serve Hot
- Plate the Chili Garlic Shrimp Noodles and enjoy immediately!
Tips for Success
Perfecting the Shrimp
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly—remove them as soon as they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
Balancing Flavors
- Sweet, Salty, Spicy: Ensure the sauce has a balance of sweetness (honey), saltiness (soy sauce), and spiciness (chili garlic sauce).
Choosing the Right Noodles
- Use sturdy noodles like lo mein or udon for the best texture. Rice noodles are a great gluten-free option.
Variations
Protein Swaps
- Substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or beef for a different take.
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Include mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, or bok choy for added variety.
Low-Carb Version
- Swap noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
Extra Heat
- Add Sriracha or extra chili flakes for a fiery kick.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad
- Pair with a light cucumber salad or Asian slaw.
- As a Party Dish
- Serve in a large bowl for guests to enjoy at gatherings.
- Meal Prep
- Divide into portions for quick lunches during the week.
Storage and Reheating
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or oil to prevent drying out.
Freezing
- Not recommended due to the texture change in noodles and shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely before marinating.
What if I don’t have chili garlic sauce?
You can substitute with a mix of Sriracha and minced garlic.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and rice noodles.
Why This Recipe Works
The Chili Garlic Shrimp Noodles recipe is a harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. The juicy shrimp pair perfectly with chewy noodles and crunchy vegetables, all enveloped in a bold, homemade sauce. It’s a quick, versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Chili Garlic Shrimp Noodles Recipe
Chili Garlic Shrimp Noodles are a spicy, savory, and incredibly flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Packed with juicy shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and chewy noodles, this recipe is elevated by the bold flavors of chili, garlic, and soy sauce. Whether you're a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine or simply love quick and delicious meals, this recipe will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp red chili flakes
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust for heat)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- For the Noodles:
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- 2 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles:
Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, mix the shrimp with soy sauce, sesame oil, chili flakes, and cornstarch. Set aside for 5 minutes. - Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Set aside. - Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. - Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add garlic and red chili (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add carrots, snap peas, and green onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. - Combine Everything:
Reduce heat to medium. Add the cooked noodles and the sauce to the skillet. Toss to coat the noodles evenly.
Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and mix until everything is well combined and heated through. - Serve:
Garnish with reserved green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Noodle Choices: Lo mein or rice noodles work best, but spaghetti or linguine are great substitutes.
- Adjust Spice: Add more or less chili garlic sauce and red chili to suit your spice tolerance.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to include bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra nutrition.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.