Creamy Peanut Noodles with Chicken

Quick Benefits

Creamy Peanut Noodles with Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of peanut sauce with tender chicken and silky rice noodles. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and a touch of spice, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner. The homemade peanut sauce brings a balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, making it an irresistible option for noodle lovers.

Essential Ingredients

To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need:

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1 (13.6 oz) can coconut milk
• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

For the Chicken and Noodles:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken stock
• 8 ounces (225 g) uncooked rice noodles

For Garnishing:

• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh green onions, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Peanut Sauce:

• In a bowl or jug, whisk together coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
• Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

1. Simmer the Sauce:

• Pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the pan.
• Add the peanut sauce mixture, stir well, and let simmer over low-medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

1. Cook the Noodles:

• Prepare rice noodles according to the package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

1. Combine Everything:

• Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet with the chicken and sauce.
• Stir until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of hot water.

1. Garnish & Serve:

• Top with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and green onions.
• Serve with lime wedges for a fresh citrus kick.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Packed: Chicken provides a high-protein source for muscle growth and energy.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: Peanut butter and sesame oil offer healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Digestive Support: Ginger and garlic aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Gluten-Free Option: By using gluten-free soy sauce, this dish is suitable for gluten-free diets.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing.
• With Extra Vegetables: Stir-fry bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas and mix them into the dish.
• As a Meal Prep Dish: Store in portions for a quick lunch or dinner during the week.
• With Crusty Bread: A side of toasted bread can help scoop up any extra sauce.

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Nut-Free Alternative: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Thai-Inspired Flavor: Add a splash of fish sauce and fresh basil for a Thai-style twist.
• Creamier Version: Stir in an extra tablespoon of peanut butter for a richer texture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the peanut sauce separately for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before mixing with noodles.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Ginger: Grating fresh ginger adds a deeper, aromatic flavor compared to powdered ginger.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Rice noodles cook quickly—drain them as soon as they’re tender to prevent mushiness.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust soy sauce for saltiness, honey for sweetness, and sriracha for spice.
• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the diced chicken in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for 30 minutes before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! Try lo mein noodles, udon, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

2. How can I make this dish vegan?
Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store the sauce and noodles separately for the best texture when reheating.

4. What can I use instead of coconut milk?
You can substitute with heavy cream, almond milk, or even Greek yogurt for a different consistency.

5. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Enjoy your Creamy Peanut Noodles with Chicken—a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

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