If you’re craving a deliciously flavorful meal that combines tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles coated in an irresistibly glossy, sweet-savory sauce, then you absolutely must try this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe. Every bite bursts with the punch of garlic, the warmth of soy and oyster sauces, and the perfect hint of sweetness balanced with subtle spice. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this dish is bound to become a fast favorite in your kitchen. The harmony of textures from juicy chicken strips, crisp vegetables, and silky noodles wrapped in sticky sauce truly makes this an unforgettable recipe to savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each bringing a unique texture or flavor that builds up the rich, sticky sauce and gives the dish its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma.
- Chicken thighs or breasts (500 g): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
- Soy sauce: Brings salty umami that is fundamental to the sauce base.
- Oyster sauce: Adds savory depth and richness.
- Cornstarch: Used for marinade and sauce to ensure perfect stickiness and smooth texture.
- Sesame oil: Provides a fragrant nutty accent that elevates the dish.
- Ground pepper and salt: To taste, for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
- Noodles (250 g): Eg noodles, wheat, or rice noodles depending on your preference.
- Vegetable oil: For stir-frying — keeps everything tasting fresh and crisp.
- Onion, carrot, red bell pepper, cabbage: Adds freshness, vibrant color, and texture contrast.
- Spring onions and garlic: Essential aromatics that bring punch and depth.
- Fresh red chilies (optional): For a lively kick of heat.
- Dark soy, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar: These blend to create the luscious sticky garlic sauce that defines the dish.
- Water or chicken stock: Helps balance and smooth the sauce.
- Chili sauce or sriracha (optional): For extra spice tailored to your liking.
- Toasted sesame seeds and fresh coriander: Perfect garnishes to finish the dish with some texture and herbal brightness.
How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by giving your chicken strips a flavorful soak. Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, pepper, and salt in a bowl and toss in the chicken. This marinade not only infuses the meat with savory goodness but also helps keep it juicy and tender when cooked. Let it rest for at least 15–20 minutes or, if you have extra time, up to an hour in the fridge for an even deeper flavor that’s truly irresistible.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
Cook your chosen noodles until just al dente following the package instructions. The goal is to have them tender but still firm to the bite because they will cook further when combined with the sauce. Drain and rinse under cold water immediately to stop overcooking, then toss with a little oil so they don’t stick together. This step keeps the noodles perfectly separated and ready to soak up that sticky garlic sauce later.
Step 3: Make the Sticky Garlic Sauce
Mix together soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, vinegar, honey or brown sugar, water or chicken stock, cornstarch, chili sauce, sesame oil, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce is the heart of this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe — its balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Vegetables
Heat some vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Start by softening sliced onions, then add carrots, bell pepper, and cabbage for a vibrant mix that stays pleasantly crisp. Toss in the white parts of the spring onions along with minced garlic and optional fresh chilies just long enough to release that intoxicating aroma without burning the garlic. These fresh ingredients lighten the dish and add essential crunch against the slippery noodles and tender chicken.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
In the same pan, add a little more oil and sear your marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it brown undisturbed for a minute or two before stir-frying to fully cook. This method locks in juices and creates slight caramelization which adds layers of flavor to the dish. If the pan becomes dry or the chicken sticks, a splash of water helps deglaze and incorporate those tasty browned bits back into the mix.
Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Reduce the heat, give your sticky garlic sauce a quick stir, then pour it into the pan with the cooked chicken. Stir constantly as the sauce warms and thickens, coating every piece in that heavenly glossy glaze. Adjust its consistency with a splash of water if it gets too thick — you want a perfect sticky texture that clings lovingly to each noodle and chunk of chicken.
Step 7: Add Noodles and Vegetables
Return the cooked noodles and stir-fried vegetables to the pan, tossing everything gently but thoroughly to ensure the sticky garlic sauce envelops every component. Finish off by stirring in the green parts of spring onions and tasting for seasoning. A little extra soy sauce or salt might be needed depending on your preference. This final step brings all the flavors and textures together for a dish that’s truly show-stopping.
How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top to add a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the silky noodles. Fresh coriander leaves lend a bright herbal note that balances the sticky sweetness of the sauce. Extra spring onion greens bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of fresh color, making the dish as pretty as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, pair this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe with simple sides like steamed or stir-fried greens, such as bok choy or snap peas. A light cucumber salad makes a refreshing contrast, or you could serve with some crunchy prawn crackers or toasted peanuts for added texture and flavor variety.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the noodles piled high on a large platter garnished lavishly with herbs and sesame seeds. You can offer lime wedges alongside for a citrusy zing or provide small dishes of chili oil and extra soy sauce so everyone can customize their own bowl. Layering with vibrant vegetables on top keeps the dish colorful and inviting, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
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 will absorb the sauce flavors more over time, making for an even tastier next-day meal. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing
While you can freeze this recipe, the noodles’ texture may soften after thawing. If you want a quick freezer meal, freeze the sticky garlic chicken sauce separately in an airtight container and keep the noodles and vegetables fresh in the fridge. Recombine after reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the noodles’ texture and keep the chicken tender. Toss everything well until steaming hot and enjoy all those wonderful sticky garlic flavors anew.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine but tend to be leaner and can dry out faster, so marinate well and keep an eye on cooking time to ensure tenderness.
What type of noodles is best for this recipe?
Egg noodles, wheat noodles, or rice noodles all work wonderfully. Choose your favorite based on texture preference and availability. Just cook until al dente to avoid mushiness after tossing with the sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, simply swap chicken for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian oyster sauce substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly for tofu to get a nice texture and flavor infusion.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe is adaptable. You can add fresh red chilies or chili sauce for heat or omit them to keep it mild. The sticky garlic sauce itself is more sweet and savory, offering plenty of flavor even without spice.
What should I serve with Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?
Complement with light vegetable sides, a fresh salad, or even spring rolls. A cup of hot green tea or a crisp, cold beer would also pair nicely for a complete and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe. Its blend of savory, sweet, and garlicky notes combined with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables makes every mouthful a delight. Whether you’re feeding just yourself or a hungry crowd, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Give it a try, and prepare to have a new favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation!
Print
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is a flavorful Asian-inspired stir-fry dish combining tender marinated chicken, colorful vegetables, and chewy noodles all coated in a rich, glossy, and sweet-savory garlic sauce. This one-pan recipe features layers of umami from soy and oyster sauces, balanced by a hint of sweetness and a touch of heat, making it a perfect quick dinner for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground white or black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
For the noodles:
- 250 g dried egg noodles, wheat noodles, or rice noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned (thin matchsticks)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage or napa cabbage (optional)
- 3–4 spring onions (scallions), sliced (whites and greens separated)
- 4–6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1–2 fresh red chilies, finely sliced (optional, for heat)
For the sticky garlic sauce:
- 4 tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
- 1 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth; optional but recommended)
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2–3 tbsp hoisin sauce (for extra stickiness and sweetness)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3–4 tbsp honey or brown sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1/3 cup water or low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp chili sauce or sriracha (optional, to taste)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For garnish:
- 1–2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
- Extra sliced spring onion greens
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, pepper, and salt. Mix well until every piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes or up to 1 hour in the fridge for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain immediately and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. Toss with 1 tsp of oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Make the sticky garlic sauce: In a medium bowl or measuring jug, add soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar, water or stock, cornstarch, chili sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk until the cornstarch and honey/sugar are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust the flavor by adding more honey/sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or soy for saltiness.
- Stir-fry the aromatics and vegetables: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for about 1–2 minutes until slightly softened. Add the carrot, bell pepper, and cabbage (if using). Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until bright and just tender but still crisp. Add the white parts of the spring onions and the minced garlic (and sliced fresh chilies if using). Stir-fry for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In the same wok or pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer as much as possible. Let it sear undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to get a bit of color, then stir-fry for 4–6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. If the pan looks dry or the chicken starts to catch, add 1–2 tbsp water and deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Combine chicken with sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Give the prepared sticky garlic sauce a quick stir as cornstarch tends to settle, and pour it into the pan with the cooked chicken. Stir constantly as it comes to a simmer. The sauce will begin to thicken and turn glossy in 1–2 minutes. Let it bubble gently until it becomes thick, sticky, and coats the chicken pieces well. If it thickens too much, add 1–2 tbsp water to loosen.
- Add noodles and vegetables: Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the sticky garlic chicken. Return the stir-fried vegetables to the pan as well. Using tongs, gently toss everything together for 2–3 minutes over medium heat so that the noodles are fully coated in the sticky sauce and everything is heated through. Add the green parts of the spring onions and toss once more. Adjust seasoning with a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of salt if needed.
- Serve: Transfer the sticky garlic chicken noodles to plates or a large serving platter. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, extra spring onion greens, and coriander if desired. Serve hot, optionally with lime wedges, chili oil, or extra chili sauce on the side.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer enhances the flavor, but 15 minutes is sufficient for a quick meal.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian variation.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by varying honey or brown sugar amount according to your taste.
- Fresh red chilies add heat, but can be omitted for a milder dish.
- Use rice noodles for a gluten-free option, ensuring that soy and oyster sauces used are also gluten-free.
- Leftovers reheat well in a pan or microwave but may thicken the sauce; add a splash of water or stock when reheating.
