Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal! Discover this speedy, incredibly flavorful dish that brings authentic takeout tastes right into your kitchen. Perfect for busy evenings, this Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodle recipe combines crispy chicken, tender broccoli, and comforting noodles in a rich, spicy garlic sauce. It is a fantastic way to enjoy better-than-takeout flavors from the comfort of your home. Get ready for a delicious dinner that’s both easy and satisfying!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles
You will quickly understand why this recipe is a favorite once you try it. It’s designed to make your cooking experience simple and rewarding, even on the busiest days.
- Takeout Flavor, Fast: Achieve that irresistible restaurant quality without leaving your home.
- Quick & Easy: This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Highly Customizable: Easily swap proteins or add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.
- One-Pan Friendly: Minimizes cleanup, making your post-dinner routine much simpler.
- Deeply Satisfying: Enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish that truly hits the spot.
Key Ingredients for Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles
Crafting delicious Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you will need to gather for this delightful dish.
- Noodles: 8 ounces wide rice noodles are ideal. Their broad surface perfectly soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Protein: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced, forms the delicious core.
- Vegetables: 1 cup broccoli florets, 2 bell peppers thinly sliced, and 1 shallot thinly sliced add freshness and texture. You will also need 4 scallions, chopped.
- For the Spicy Garlic Sauce: You will need 1/3 cup, plus 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce (use tamari for a gluten-free option), 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce for a balance of sweet and heat, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil for a nutty aroma, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar for essential tang, 1 tablespoon chopped sushi ginger (optional, but highly recommended), and chili flakes to adjust your desired spice level.
- For Crispy Chicken: You’ll use 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch for coating and 3 tablespoons salted butter for searing. You also need 4 cloves of fresh garlic, chopped.
- Garnish: 1 cup fresh Thai or regular basil, chopped, and sesame seeds for serving.
Essential Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to create this fantastic dish. This simplicity makes the cooking process even more enjoyable.
- A large skillet or wok is perfect for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- A large pot is necessary for boiling the rice noodles.
- A whisk helps thoroughly combine all the sauce ingredients.
- A sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife are essential for prepping your ingredients.
How To Make Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles
Follow these clear steps to create your delicious Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles. You will be amazed at how quickly this flavorful meal comes together.
- Prep the Noodles: Begin by cooking the wide rice noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. This typically takes only a few minutes. Drain them well and set them aside. Do not rinse the noodles unless specified by the package.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce, the sweet Thai chili sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, chopped sushi ginger (if using), and chili flakes. Add 1/4 cup of water to the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust chili flakes if you prefer more heat.
- Crisp the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced chicken pieces with the flour or cornstarch until they are lightly coated. Melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the coated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on all sides and cooked through.
- Flavor the Chicken: To the cooked chicken in the skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 tablespoon of tamari or soy sauce, and the chopped fresh garlic. Sauté for just another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables: Using the same skillet (no need to clean it!), add the sliced shallot, bell peppers, broccoli florets, and chopped scallions. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the prepared spicy garlic sauce and add the drained rice noodles. Using tongs, toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the noodles.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of the fresh chopped basil. Serve the Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodle dish warm, garnished with the remaining fresh basil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your homemade takeout-style meal!
Pro Tips for Perfect Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles
Achieving restaurant-quality results is easier than you think with these simple pro tips. Each small detail contributes to a more delicious and satisfying experience.
- Noodle Texture is Key: Be careful not to overcook your rice noodles. They should be al dente, firm yet tender. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and sticky.
- Crispy Chicken Every Time: For the crispiest chicken, pat the chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels before tossing them in flour or cornstarch. This helps create a better crust.
- Garlic Care: When adding fresh garlic, sauté it briefly, usually for no more than a minute. Burnt garlic can taste bitter and ruin the dish’s flavor.
- Spice Control: Always adjust the amount of chili flakes to your personal preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more if you desire extra heat.
- Boost Freshness with Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs, like basil, at the very end of cooking or as a garnish. This preserves their vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Perfect Sauce Consistency: Continue to cook the mixture until the sauce evenly coats the noodles and thickens slightly. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
This versatile Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles dish is perfect for many occasions. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal, store leftovers, and explore exciting variations.
Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles Serving Suggestions
- Serve your noodles with fresh lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors.
- For those who love extra heat, offer a small bowl of extra chili oil or sriracha at the table.
- Consider pairing this dish with a simple side of refreshing cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles Storage
For optimal food safety, it’s essential to follow proper guidelines when storing and reheating leftovers.
- Safe food handling practices for leftovers advise on how long cooked food can be kept.
- Store any leftover Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles in an airtight container.
- Properly stored, the leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
- To reheat, warm the noodles gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or vegetable broth. This helps rehydrate them and prevents sticking.
- Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently, until heated through.
Variations
- Protein Swaps: Easily substitute chicken with cooked shrimp, thinly sliced beef, or firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like shredded carrots, snap peas, sliced mushrooms, or baby corn.
- Noodle Alternatives: If rice noodles aren’t available, try lo mein or udon noodles for a different texture. Cook them al dente.
- Flavor Boost: Garnish your dish with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: To ensure this recipe is fully gluten-free, double-check that all your sauces, especially tamari and sweet chili sauce, are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition Information
Enjoying a delicious meal can also be part of a balanced diet. Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this flavorful dish.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 565 kcal |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Protein (Approx) | 40-45g |
| Fat (Approx) | 20-25g |
| Carbs (Approx) | 50-55g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate based on ingredients and cooking methods. Values may vary depending on specific brands and exact measurements used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You likely have a few questions about making these flavorful noodles. Here are some common inquiries to help you master this recipe.
- Can I use other types of noodles? Yes, absolutely! Lo mein or udon noodles are excellent alternatives; just ensure you cook them al dente according to package instructions.
- How do I prevent mushy or clumpy rice noodles? To avoid mushy or clumpy noodles, do not overcook them, rinse them briefly with cold water after draining, and toss them with a tiny bit of sesame oil.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and ensure you use a vegetable broth for any liquid added to the sauce. Understanding gluten-free certification helps consumers identify safe products. A detailed guide on gluten-free food certification can clarify product labeling.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? This recipe can be easily made gluten-free by ensuring you use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce and checking that all other sauces are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Embrace the joy of cooking this quick, spicy, and deeply satisfying Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodle dish. It’s an incredibly easy way to achieve authentic takeout flavors right in your own kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights, this customizable recipe allows you to enjoy an irresistible combination of garlic, chili, chicken, and fresh broccoli. Don’t wait; try it tonight and share your delicious experience!
Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodles: Quick Takeout Flavor at Home
This quick and easy recipe brings the bold flavors of takeout to your kitchen with spicy garlic chicken and tender rice noodles. Sliced chicken is cooked until crispy, then tossed with a savory-sweet sauce, bell peppers, shallots, and fresh basil, creating a satisfying meal in under an hour.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces wide rice noodles
- 1/3 cup, plus 1 tablespoon tamari/soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sushi ginger chopped
- chili flakes
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts sliced
- 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 shallot sliced
- 2 bell peppers thinly sliced
- 4 scallions chopped
- 1 cup Thai or regular basil chopped
- sesame seeds for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook and drain the wide rice noodles according to package instructions.
- Whisk together tamari/soy sauce, sweet Thai chili sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, chili flakes, and water to create the sauce.
Cooking Chicken & Vegetables
- Toss sliced chicken with flour, then cook in a skillet with butter until crispy. Add remaining butter, tamari, and garlic, cook for another minute, then remove the chicken from the skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté shallot, bell peppers, and green onions for 5 minutes. Add the prepared sauce, noodles, and chicken, tossing to coat for 3-5 minutes, then stir in half the basil and remove from heat.
Serving
- Serve the noodles warm, garnished with the remaining fresh basil and sesame seeds.
Notes
For an extra kick, increase the amount of chili flakes. You can also add other vegetables like snap peas or carrots with the bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
Nutrition
Calories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 25gFat: 32gSodium: 950mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8g
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