Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as comforting as it is packed with flavor, Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken will absolutely hit the spot. Imagine silky strands of noodles coated in a buttery, garlicky sauce, all topped with juicy, caramelized chicken glazed with homemade teriyaki—each bite is pure happiness! This dish is a weeknight game-changer and a guaranteed winner for family, friends, or anyone who loves restaurant-style Asian-inspired meals at home. Whether you’re cooking for two or a hungry crew, Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken is sure to become one of your most-requested recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish is all about the basics done right. Every ingredient works double-duty, bringing bold flavors, luscious texture, or a pop of color to your Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Spaghetti or ramen noodles (8 ounces): These are the heart of the dish, beautifully soaking up all the savory garlic sauce.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds rich, silky flavor and helps the sauce cling to every noodle.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced): The star of the sauce, giving those noodles their irresistible aroma and depth.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances the savory sauces with just a touch of sweetness.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon for noodles, 1/4 cup for chicken): Provides classic umami and saltiness.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Delivers that signature glossy finish and complex, savory note.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings a hint of sweetness and a rich, deep flavor.
- Sesame oil (1/2 teaspoon for noodles, 1 tablespoon for chicken): Adds a nutty, toasty aroma that rounds out the dish.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a subtle heat and earthiness.
- Chicken thighs or breasts (1 pound, boneless, skinless): Juicy, protein-packed, and perfect for soaking up that homemade teriyaki sauce.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons for chicken): Helps caramelize the chicken and sweeten the teriyaki glaze.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
- Cornstarch (1 teaspoon) + water (1 tablespoon): Thickens the teriyaki sauce for a glossy, clingy finish.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced for chicken): Enhances the aromatic punch of the teriyaki sauce.
- Fresh ginger (1/2 teaspoon, grated): Adds warmth and zing to the chicken glaze.
- Sliced green onions: For a fresh, colorful crunch on top.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle for extra texture and a pretty finish.
How to Make Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in your spaghetti or ramen noodles and cook them just until al dente, following the package instructions. Give them a good drain and set them aside—you’ll want them ready when it’s time to toss with that luscious garlic sauce.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then add the cornstarch slurry (that’s just cornstarch mixed with a splash of water). Stir for a minute or two until the sauce thickens up and turns glossy. Take it off the heat and set aside for later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Slice your chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Heat a skillet over medium-high and add a little oil if needed. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Pour the warm teriyaki sauce right over the chicken and toss everything together so it’s nicely coated. Turn off the heat and keep the chicken warm.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Noodle Sauce
In another large skillet or a wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute—keep a close eye so it doesn’t brown. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s a fragrant, shimmering sauce.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked noodles straight into the skillet with the garlic sauce. Use tongs to gently toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and glossy. Don’t be shy—make sure every strand is glistening with that garlicky goodness!
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Dish out the garlic noodles onto plates or bowls, then top generously with the sticky teriyaki chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken is best enjoyed while everything is hot and fragrant!
How to Serve Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken
Garnishes
A handful of sliced green onions adds both a pop of color and a fresh, oniony crunch that wakes up the whole dish. If you love a little extra texture, scatter on some toasted sesame seeds. For a spicy kick, a pinch of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of chili oil can take things up a notch.
Side Dishes
Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken is fantastic on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try a simple cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted baby bok choy. A side of pickled veggies or a bowl of miso soup also pairs beautifully and brings extra balance to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the noodles in shallow bowls with chopsticks tucked on the side. If you’re feeding a crowd, try arranging the noodles and chicken on a large platter and let everyone help themselves. You could even turn this into a noodle bar with different toppings—think extra herbs, crispy shallots, or sriracha for customization!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers, you’re in luck—Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken reheats beautifully. Let everything cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles and chicken separate if possible, so the textures stay just right.
Freezing
While noodles themselves can get a bit soft after freezing, the teriyaki chicken freezes like a dream. Place the cooked and cooled chicken (with sauce) in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving over freshly made garlic noodles for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the noodles gently in a skillet with a splash of water or extra sauce to loosen them up. The chicken can be microwaved or reheated in a pan until hot. If you stored the components separately, combine just before serving so everything tastes fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti and ramen are classic, you can try udon, rice noodles, or even soba for a little twist. Just keep in mind that different noodles may have different cooking times and textures, but they’ll all be delicious with that garlic sauce and teriyaki chicken.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
It’s super easy—just swap the chicken for firm tofu or even sautéed mushrooms. Use vegetarian oyster sauce (or skip it) and proceed with the same method. You’ll still get all the garlicky, saucy goodness in every bite.
Can I make Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken spicy?
Definitely! Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce, or serve with chili oil or sriracha on the side so everyone can adjust their own heat level. It’s a simple way to kick up the flavor.
What’s the best way to prep ahead for this recipe?
Chop your garlic, slice your chicken, and measure out your sauces in advance. You can even make the teriyaki sauce up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge. This way, dinner comes together in a snap on busy nights.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for sharing. Double all the ingredients, use a big wok or two skillets, and let everyone dig in. It’s a surefire way to impress guests at potlucks or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Now you’ve got everything you need to make Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken a new favorite at your table. It’s cozy, crave-worthy, and so easy to pull together even on your busiest weeknight. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
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Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Noodles with Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a flavorful and satisfying Asian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken coated in a rich teriyaki sauce pairs beautifully with buttery, garlicky noodles tossed in a savory blend of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces. Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it’s an easy yet impressive meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the noodles:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or ramen noodles
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the teriyaki chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- Make the teriyaki sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until it is nicely browned and cooked through. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, toss well to coat, then remove from heat and keep warm.
- Prepare the garlic noodles: In another skillet or wok, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add brown sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Toss in the cooked noodles and stir well until they are fully coated in the garlic sauce.
- Serve: Plate the garlic noodles and top them with the teriyaki chicken. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your flavorful and comforting meal!
Notes
- You can substitute tofu or shrimp for the chicken to suit your preference.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce.
- Use dairy-free butter to make this recipe dairy-free.
- If you prefer a thicker teriyaki sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer after adding the slurry.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 1020mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
