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Irresistible Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles

This recipe delivers perfectly sticky garlic chicken noodles with a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The key is to properly balance starch, sugar, and soy sauce, and to sear the chicken for optimal flavor and texture.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lb lo mein noodles or spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite noodle
  • Water for boiling
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water slurry
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish optional
  • Chili flakes, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Pot for boiling noodles
  • colander
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Stirring utensils
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Rinse under cold water to prevent sticking if you won't be using them immediately.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Make the Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Stir to combine.
  6. Add Chicken Broth and Thicken: Add the chicken broth and bring the sauce to a simmer. Gradually pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  7. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy your sticky garlic chicken noodle creation.

Notes

For best results, use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the sauce. Don't overcook the noodles; they should be al dente. You can adjust the amount of honey and rice vinegar to suit your taste. Feel free to add a dash of chili flakes for extra heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.