These Kung Pao Chicken Noodles are a delightful fusion of flavors, making them an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, spicy sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your guests. With its versatility and bold taste, these noodles are perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: A balanced combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious noodle dish – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutritious veggies, it’s a wholesome meal option.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these Kung Pao Chicken Noodles efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will streamline your cooking process and ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and vegetables evenly while allowing flavors to meld together.
- Pot: Ideal for boiling noodles quickly and cooking them to the desired texture.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing sauces thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Ingredients
These Kung Pao chicken noodles are easy to make, saucy, full of flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and is a total family favorite.
Noodles
- 12 ounces noodles of choice
Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari (or soy sauce if not gluten free)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 cup diced green onion (mostly the white part)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 cup low sodium tamari (or soy sauce if not gluten free)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (I used sambel oelek)
- 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar (I did 1, but use 2 if you prefer it sweeter)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (can omit for less spice)
Thickening Agent
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Garnish
- 1/3 cup crushed peanuts
- 1/3 cup diced green onion (mostly the green part)
How to Make Kung Pao Chicken Noodles
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into small, roughly 1-inch pieces. Add them to a bowl with the soy sauce/tamari, honey, and chili paste. Mix well and set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer if possible.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for the water and cornstarch until smooth.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add in diced green onions and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 5: Cook Chicken
Add marinated chicken (discarding leftover marinade) to the skillet. Fry on each side for about 2-3 minutes or until cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Combine Sauce & Thicken
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth; then add it to the sauce. Allow it to thicken slightly before mixing in cooked noodles.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
Stir in cooked chicken with all ingredients so that flavors meld together well. Garnish with crushed peanuts and diced green onions before serving hot! Enjoy as is or paired with your favorite veggies like broccoli or bell peppers!
How to Serve Kung Pao Chicken Noodles
Kung Pao chicken noodles are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re looking to create a simple yet satisfying meal or elevate your dining experience, these serving suggestions will enhance your Kung Pao chicken noodles.
Add Extra Vegetables
- Broccoli: Steamed or stir-fried, broccoli adds a delightful crunch and nutrition.
- Bell Peppers: Sautéed bell peppers bring color and sweetness that complements the dish.
Serve with Rice
- White Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy white rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Fried Rice: For added flavor, serve your Kung Pao chicken noodles alongside fried rice seasoned with soy sauce.
Garnish Creatively
- Crushed Peanuts: Sprinkle on top for crunch and a nutty flavor boost.
- Fresh Cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of color to your plate.
Offer Dipping Sauces
- Soy Sauce: A small bowl of soy sauce allows for extra seasoning based on personal preference.
- Chili Oil: For those who love heat, chili oil can be drizzled on top for an extra kick.
How to Perfect Kung Pao Chicken Noodles
To make your Kung Pao chicken noodles truly outstanding, consider these tips for perfecting the dish every time you prepare it.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for a longer time brings out deeper flavors.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of chili paste and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the noodles to ensure they remain al dente.
- Whisk Sauce Thoroughly: Ensure the sauce is well-mixed before adding it to avoid clumps from cornstarch.
- Add Protein Variations: Try shrimp or tofu for a different protein option while maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Kung Pao Chicken Noodles
Pairing side dishes with Kung Pao chicken noodles can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Egg Rolls: Crispy and filled with vegetables, they make a great crunchy side.
- Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, spring rolls bring additional textures to your meal.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad balances out the heat from the Kung Pao noodles nicely.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This leafy green adds nutrition and is quick to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw offers crunch and complements the flavors of Kung Pao chicken noodles well.
- Sesame Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans tossed in sesame oil add vibrancy and taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Kung Pao chicken noodles can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the marinade: Not marinating your chicken can result in bland flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marination for better taste.
- Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles too long makes them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and taste test them for doneness.
- Using too much sauce: Adding too much sauce can overwhelm the dish. Start with half and add more if you prefer it saucier.
- Neglecting to prepare ingredients beforehand: Failing to have all ingredients ready can lead to overcooked chicken or burnt garlic. Prep everything before starting to cook.
- Not adjusting spice levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, use less chili paste or omit the red pepper flakes. Customize it based on your preference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Kung Pao Chicken Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Kung Pao Chicken Noodles
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the noodles in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place the noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir-fry the noodles until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Kung Pao chicken noodles:
Can I use other types of protein in Kung Pao Chicken Noodles?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef depending on your preference.
How do I make Kung Pao Chicken Noodles gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that your noodles are gluten-free as well.
What should I serve with Kung Pao Chicken Noodles?
These noodles pair well with steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
How spicy is Kung Pao Chicken Noodles?
The spice level can vary based on how much chili paste and red pepper flakes you use. Adjust these ingredients according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
Kung Pao chicken noodles are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level. Give it a try tonight!
Kung Pao Chicken Noodles
Indulge in the flavorful delight of Kung Pao Chicken Noodles, a quick and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a spicy sauce, all tossed with your favorite noodles. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. With its balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit for the whole family. Customize it by adding your preferred veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Enjoy this easy homemade meal that delivers comfort and excitement in every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 12 ounces noodles of choice
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- Vegetables: green onion, garlic
- Sauce: sesame oil, peanut butter, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, red pepper flakes
- Garnish: crushed peanuts and diced green onions
Instructions
- Cut chicken into small pieces and marinate with tamari, honey, and chili paste for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- Whisk together sauce ingredients minus water and cornstarch until smooth.
- Sauté green onions in sesame oil until fragrant; add garlic.
- Cook marinated chicken until fully cooked.
- Combine sauce with chicken; add cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.
- Toss in cooked noodles and garnish with peanuts and green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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