There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, savory noodle dish that comes together in just half an hour. Easy Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, busy afternoons, or whenever you crave a satisfying, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Inspired by the rich flavors of Asian street food, this recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a sticky, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a dish that brings people together around the table and makes everyone ask for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these noodles are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
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12 oz (340 g) of boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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8 oz (225 g) of noodles (lo mein, udon, or spaghetti)
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3 tablespoons vegetable oil
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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3 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)
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2 green onions, sliced for garnish
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
Prepare the noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Adding a generous pinch of salt to the water will enhance the flavor of the noodles and prevent them from tasting flat. While the water is heating, take a moment to measure out your noodles—whether you’re using lo mein, udon, or spaghetti. Each type of noodle has a slightly different cooking time, so be sure to follow the instructions on the package closely. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and lose their texture, while undercooked noodles may be too firm to mix well with the sauce. Once the water is boiling, add the noodles and stir gently to separate them. Cooking them evenly is key for a perfect dish.
After the noodles reach the desired tenderness, drain them immediately in a colander. Toss them lightly with a teaspoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking and clumping as they cool. This small step makes it much easier to mix the noodles with the chicken and sauce later on. Set the noodles aside while you focus on preparing the chicken and sauce.
Cook the chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat thoroughly before adding the chicken. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when the chicken touches it—this ensures a beautiful golden-brown sear and locks in the juices. Carefully place the chicken pieces into the skillet in a single layer, giving them space so they cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear.
Season the chicken generously with freshly ground black pepper for a subtle, aromatic spice. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, but be careful not to over-stir, which can prevent the chicken from forming a lightly crisp exterior. Cook for approximately 5–6 minutes, or until each piece is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside. The chicken should be tender and juicy, not dry or rubbery. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Leaving the flavorful browned bits in the pan is essential for building the base of the sauce in the next step.
Make the garlic sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and return the skillet to the stove. Add the minced garlic to the hot pan, making sure it comes in contact with the flavorful oil left from the chicken. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its fragrant aroma. Garlic has a delicate flavor, so it’s important not to let it burn, as burnt garlic becomes bitter and can ruin the dish. The goal is to create a rich, fragrant base that will infuse the entire dish with its signature flavor.
Combine the sauce ingredients
Once the garlic is perfectly sautéed, it’s time to build the sticky sauce that makes this dish so irresistible. Pour in the soy sauce first to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits left from cooking the chicken. These bits add extra depth and richness to the sauce. Next, add the honey, which will balance the saltiness of the soy sauce with a natural sweetness. Follow with oyster sauce for that umami punch, and drizzle in the sesame oil for a nutty, aromatic finish. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red chili flakes. Stir the sauce thoroughly to combine all the ingredients and allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly and become glossy, ready to coat the chicken and noodles beautifully.
Mix chicken and noodles
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the fragrant garlic sauce. Add the cooked noodles on top and begin to toss gently, ensuring that every strand is coated evenly with the sticky, flavorful sauce. Use a combination of stirring and folding motions to avoid breaking the noodles while distributing the sauce thoroughly. Cooking everything together for another 2–3 minutes allows the noodles to absorb some of the sauce’s flavor while the chicken reheats and finishes cooking in the sauce. This step is essential for achieving that restaurant-quality taste, where each bite is coated in a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and umami.
Garnish and serve
Once the chicken and noodles are fully combined and the flavors have melded, transfer the dish to a serving plate or shallow bowl. The presentation is simple yet elegant—sprinkle freshly sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant contrast, and add a scattering of sesame seeds for a subtle crunch and visual appeal. Serve the noodles immediately while they are hot, as the sauce is at its most luscious and the noodles retain their perfect texture. For extra flair, you can drizzle a tiny bit more sesame oil over the top just before serving, which enhances the aroma and adds a final layer of richness.
Enjoying this dish straight from the pan ensures that you experience the sticky, garlicky sauce at its best, with tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles combining for a mouthwatering, comforting meal. Whether shared with family, friends, or savored as a solo dinner, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your weeknight rotation.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Yield: 3–4 servings
Notes
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Chicken choice: Boneless chicken thighs are preferred for tenderness and flavor, but chicken breast can also be used if you prefer leaner meat.
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Noodle variety: You can use lo mein, udon, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package.
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Adjust sweetness: Add more or less honey depending on your preferred level of sweetness in the sauce.
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Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian oyster sauce.
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Make it spicier: Increase red chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha for more heat.
Tips for Perfect Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
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High heat cooking: Cooking the chicken on medium-high heat ensures it sears nicely, giving a slightly caramelized exterior that adds depth to the flavor.
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Avoid overcooking noodles: Drain noodles immediately after cooking and toss with a bit of oil to prevent them from clumping together.
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Garlic flavor: Fresh garlic is key. Avoid pre-minced garlic in jars if you want that authentic, fragrant taste.
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Thickening the sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently after adding honey and soy sauce—it will naturally thicken without needing cornstarch.
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Serving suggestion: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy to balance the richness of the noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served immediately for maximum flavor and texture, you can prepare the chicken and noodles separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet and toss with the sauce before serving. Avoid making the sauce too far in advance, as it may thicken excessively upon cooling.
2. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! Lo mein, udon, rice noodles, or even spaghetti can work well. Adjust cooking time based on the type of noodle, and make sure to toss them lightly with oil after boiling to prevent sticking.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute tamari for soy sauce and use gluten-free oyster sauce. Most rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap for a gluten-free meal.
4. Can I add vegetables to the noodles?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn all complement the flavors beautifully. Add them during the garlic sauté step so they cook but remain crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles recipe is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The sticky, garlicky sauce clings to every noodle, while tender chicken pieces make each bite satisfying. You get a dish that is both comforting and impressive, perfect for family dinners or even casual meal prep for the week. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and quick enough to whip up on a busy weekday evening.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
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Serve with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
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Drizzle a touch of sesame oil or sprinkle extra sesame seeds for added depth.
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Pair with simple fried rice or steamed vegetables for a full Asian-inspired meal.
Storing and Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the sauce.
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Freezing: Not recommended as the texture of the noodles may change upon freezing and thawing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that is simple, flavorful, and ready in 30 minutes. These Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. With its irresistible sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Serve it up tonight and experience the joy of sticky, garlicky, comforting noodles that everyone will love.
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Easy Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Ready in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings 1x
Description
These Easy Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a comforting, flavorful meal. Tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked noodles, and a sticky, garlicky sauce come together in just 30 minutes, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. Inspired by the flavors of Asian street food, this recipe is ideal for family dinners, casual meals with friends, or even meal prep for the week.
Ingredients
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12 oz (340 g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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8 oz (225 g) noodles (lo mein, udon, or spaghetti)
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3 tablespoons vegetable oil
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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3 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
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2 green onions, sliced for garnish
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender but firm. Drain and toss with a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
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Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with black pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
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Make the garlic sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic.
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Combine the sauce ingredients: Add soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and red chili flakes. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Mix chicken and noodles: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the noodles and toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Garnish and serve: Transfer noodles to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
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Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results, but chicken breast works as a leaner option.
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Lo mein, udon, or spaghetti noodles are all suitable—adjust cooking time per package instructions.
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Adjust honey for your preferred level of sweetness.
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For a vegetarian version, use tofu or tempeh and vegetarian oyster sauce.
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Add extra chili flakes or sriracha if you like a spicier dish.
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Toss noodles with a bit of oil after boiling to prevent clumping.
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Serve with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
