Spicy Peanut Noodles

Name: Spicy Peanut Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 12 ounces Asian noodles (such as udon, soba, or rice noodles); 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; ¾ pound chicken breast (boneless, skinless, cut into thin strips); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced); 1 medium red bell pepper (sliced); ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons Gochujang (hot pepper paste); ½ cup smooth peanut butter; ¼ to ½ cup water (to adjust consistency); Fresh basil leaves (for garnish); Limes (cut into wedges, for serving)

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

February 8, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Spicy Peanut Noodles is a dish that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine tender noodles slathered in a rich, creamy peanut sauce with a spicy kick that sneaks up on you. It’s the perfect combination of comforting flavors and exciting heat. Whether you whip it up for a casual dinner or to impress guests, this dish never disappoints. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, even on your busiest weeknights. That’s right! You’re only about 30 minutes away from a plate full of delightful Spicy Peanut Noodles, complete with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and that incredible sauce that makes you want to come back for seconds (and thirds!).

Jump to:

What is Spicy Peanut Noodles
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Peanut Noodles
Ingredients
Cook Noodles
Make Peanut Sauce
Cook Chicken
Add Garlic and Ginger
Incorporate Red Bell Pepper
Toss Together
Garnish and Serve
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
Storage Tips
FAQs
More Easy Lunch & Dinner Recipes:
📖 Recipe Card

Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together! With just the right ingredients and a few simple steps, we’ll transform your kitchen into a haven of delicious aromas. This delightful dish combines a bit of spice, some sweetness, and a lot of creamy goodness. So, grab your apron, and let’s cook up some Spicy Peanut Noodles that your family and friends will rave about!

What is Spicy Peanut Noodles

Spicy Peanut Noodles is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with a spicy kick, typically from Gochujang, a Korean chili paste. This fusion dish showcases tender noodles, sautéed chicken, and fresh vegetables, all coated in a savory and slightly sweet peanut sauce. The smokiness of the sauce perfectly complements the freshness of the veggies and the protein, making it a favorite among home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Peanut Noodles

This quick and easy recipe offers a burst of flavors with minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. With delightful textures and an amazing mix of flavors, every bite is like a mini celebration for your palate. The balance of spice and creaminess makes it an unforgettable experience, while the vibrant colors of the fresh ingredients elevate your plate. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this dish promises smiles all around.

Ingredients

12 ounces Asian noodles (such as udon, soba, or rice noodles)
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
¾ pound chicken breast (boneless, skinless, cut into thin strips)
5 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced)
1 medium red bell pepper (sliced)
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons Gochujang (hot pepper paste)
½ cup smooth peanut butter
¼ to ½ cup water (to adjust consistency)
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Limes (cut into wedges, for serving)

Cook Noodles

First, let’s get those noodles started. Boil a large pot of water and add your Asian noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they’re tender but still firm, so they hold shape when mixed. Once done, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside while you prepare your sauce and chicken.

Make Peanut Sauce

While the noodles are cooking, you can whip up the peanut sauce. In a small bowl, combine your smooth peanut butter, Gochujang, rice vinegar, honey, and soy sauce. Whisk everything together, adding enough water to reach the desired sauce consistency—whether you like it thick or a bit runny, it’s all about personal preference. Once the sauce is ready, set it aside and take a moment to inhale that fantastic aroma.

Cook Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat the toasted sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add your chicken strips to the hot pan and cook them until they’re no longer pink, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This step is crucial, as the garlic and ginger will infuse the oil with amazing flavors that will coat the entire dish.

Incorporate Red Bell Pepper

Next, toss the sliced red bell pepper into the skillet. Cook for an additional minute until it softens slightly but still retains some crunch. This adds not just flavor but also a pop of color to your dish.

Toss Together

Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked noodles and peanut sauce. Now comes the fun part—toss everything together. Use tongs or a spatula to ensure all the noodles and chicken get nicely coated in that glorious sauce. This is also a good moment to check if you need more sauce—feel free to adjust based on your taste!

Garnish and Serve

Plate your Spicy Peanut Noodles and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves. Those aromatic herbs add such a refreshing touch! Serve with lime wedges on the side, and maybe even some crushed peanuts if you want an extra crunch. This dish not only looks stunning but smells incredible too!

Serving Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider pairing these Spicy Peanut Noodles with a side of steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad. The freshness of the salad will contrast beautifully with the rich flavors of the noodles.

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken cooks evenly, make sure to slice it thinly.
If you love spicy food, feel free to add extra Gochujang to the sauce according to your preference.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. Adding additional veggies like carrots or snap peas not only adds color but also boosts nutrition.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make Spicy Peanut Noodles vegetarian?
Yes! Use tofu instead of chicken and ensure your soy sauce is vegan.

2. Is it possible to freeze this dish?
While you can freeze the noodles and sauce together, the texture may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

3. How spicy is Gochujang?
Gochujang has a medium heat level but varies by brand. Adjust based on your spice tolerance.

4. What can I substitute for peanut butter?
Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used as alternatives if you have nut allergies.

5. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include any veggies like zucchini, baby corn, or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor.

This Spicy Peanut Noodles recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful textures and flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely impress and leave everyone craving more. Enjoy every bite!

More Easy Lunch & Dinner Recipes:

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card