Udon Peanut Butter Noodles

This Udon Peanut Butter Noodles recipe is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and nutty flavors, featuring a creamy peanut sauce with a hint of heat. With tender udon noodles, rotisserie chicken, and crunchy peanuts, this dish is a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s both comforting and flavorful.

Essential Ingredients

To make this delicious noodle dish, you’ll need:

• Noodles & Protein:
  • 1 (9-ounce) package dried udon noodles
  • 1 whole rotisserie chicken, skinned, boned, and meat pulled into chunks
• Peanut Sauce:
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili oil
  • 1 ½ tablespoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1 ½ tablespoons honey
• Vegetables & Garnishes:
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup green onions, chopped
  • ¼ cup chopped peanuts
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Udon Noodles: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook udon noodles for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but firm. Drain and return to the pot.
2. Make the Peanut Sauce: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, peanut butter, garlic, chili oil, ginger, and honey. Bring to a boil, whisking until the peanut butter is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Pour the peanut sauce over the drained noodles. Stir in rotisserie chicken and sliced red bell pepper, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with green onions, chopped peanuts, and cilantro for extra crunch and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Rotisserie chicken provides 34g of protein per serving, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: Peanut butter and peanuts contain healthy fats that promote heart health.
• Rich in Vitamins: Red bell peppers provide a boost of Vitamin C, supporting immune function.
• Balanced Meal: The combination of carbs, protein, and healthy fats makes this a well-rounded meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Light Soup: A side of miso soup or a simple cucumber salad balances the flavors.
• Extra Spice: Add Sriracha, red pepper flakes, or extra chili oil for a spicier kick.
• Crunchy Additions: Toss in sesame seeds or crispy fried shallots for added texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the chicken with tofu or edamame.

Creative Variations

• Cold Peanut Noodles: Chill the cooked noodles and toss with the sauce for a refreshing cold noodle dish.
• Extra Veggies: Add julienned carrots, snap peas, or shredded cabbage for a veggie-packed meal.
• Thai-Inspired Flavor: Mix in a squeeze of lime juice and a touch of fish sauce for a Thai-inspired variation.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and swap udon noodles for rice noodles.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Properly: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze (with Adjustments): While best served fresh, the sauce and chicken can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Udon: If available, use fresh udon noodles for a chewier texture.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out.
• Enhance the Peanut Flavor: For a deeper peanut taste, mix in toasted sesame oil.
• Balance the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the honey slightly or add rice vinegar for a tangy balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes! Try rice noodles, soba noodles, or spaghetti for a different texture.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?
Almond butter, cashew butter, or tahini work as great substitutes.

Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely! Keep the sauce separate and toss just before serving to prevent soggy noodles.

Can I make this dish nut-free?
Yes! Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and omit the peanuts.

Enjoy this Udon Peanut Butter Noodles dish—a creamy, spicy, and satisfying meal packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients!

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