Introduction
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is a vibrant, savory dish that combines juicy chicken with the rich, sweet-tangy flavors of homemade teriyaki sauce, all tossed with soft, comforting noodles. This recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you want something quick yet full of flavor, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at a dinner gathering.
I remember making this on a hectic weeknight when I wanted something that felt both special and easy. The homemade teriyaki sauce, with its balance of sweetness and umami, really takes this dish to the next level, while the noodles soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a comforting, Asian-inspired meal at home.
What I love about Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is how versatile it is. You can add in veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch, or even swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. The noodles give it a satisfying base, and the whole dish comes together in one pan, making cleanup quick and easy.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests, this recipe will definitely become a favorite in your rotation!
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Family meals
- Asian-inspired dishes
- Quick and easy recipes
- Meal prep
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
Here’s why Chicken Teriyaki Noodles will become one of your go-to recipes:
- Juicy, Tender Chicken: The chicken is marinated and cooked to perfection, making each bite flavorful and juicy.
- Sweet and Savory Teriyaki Sauce: A homemade teriyaki sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, elevating the entire dish.
- Customizable Noodles: Choose your favorite noodles (such as lo mein, udon, or soba) to make this dish your own.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory sauce is appealing to both adults and kids, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 60g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make Chicken Teriyaki Noodles:
For the Chicken and Noodles:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 8 ounces noodles (lo mein, udon, or soba)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ⅓ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (for thickening)
Ingredient Highlights
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well for this recipe. Thighs will be juicier, while breasts are leaner.
- Noodles: Lo mein, udon, or soba noodles are traditional options, but feel free to use your favorite variety or even rice noodles.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from becoming too salty.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the teriyaki sauce.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the teriyaki sauce and give it a glossy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make this recipe:
Cook the Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Noodles:
- Boil the Noodles: While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 4-6 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Thicken the Sauce: In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Add this slurry to the sauce mixture and whisk to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the sauce into the skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Assemble the Dish:
- Combine Chicken and Noodles: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the teriyaki sauce to coat the chicken.
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: Let the noodles cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the chicken teriyaki noodles hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
This recipe are a complete meal on their own, but you can serve them with a few sides for a more balanced meal:
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, carrots, or bok choy for extra crunch and nutrients.
- Side Salad: Pair with a simple side salad with a ginger dressing to complement the flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
- Pickled Vegetables: Serve with pickled vegetables like pickled cucumbers or ginger for an extra tangy contrast.
- Egg Rolls or Dumplings: Serve with crispy egg rolls or dumplings for a more substantial meal.
Additional Tips For Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
Here are some helpful tips to perfect your Chicken Teriyaki Noodles:
- Marinate the Chicken: For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a Wok: A wok works great for cooking this dish because it distributes heat evenly and allows for quick stirring.
- Adjust the Sauce Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or honey depending on your taste preference.
- Add Vegetables: You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to the dish for added flavor and color.
- Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic give the teriyaki sauce a more authentic and vibrant flavor compared to ground versions.
Recipe Variations For Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
Here are 10 variations to make Chicken Teriyaki Noodles even more exciting:
- Spicy Chicken Teriyaki Noodles: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Teriyaki Noodles: Swap out the brown sugar for honey to make the sauce extra sweet and garlicky.
- Vegetarian Teriyaki Noodles: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Noodles: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the noodles for a sweet, tropical twist.
- Chicken and Shrimp Teriyaki Noodles: Mix in shrimp along with the chicken for a surf-and-turf version.
- Crispy Chicken Teriyaki Noodles: Coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying it for a crispy exterior.
- Mushroom Teriyaki Noodles: Add sliced shiitake, button, or portobello mushrooms for a savory, umami flavor.
- Spicy Peanut Chicken Teriyaki Noodles: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty twist.
- Chicken Teriyaki Noodles with Egg: Top the noodles with a fried or soft-boiled egg for a rich and indulgent addition.
- Sesame Chicken Teriyaki Noodles: Add toasted sesame seeds to the chicken and noodles for extra crunch and flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing Chicken Teriyaki Noodles: You can freeze the cooked chicken and noodles, but the noodles may become a little soft after reheating. Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce.
Special Equipment For Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Chicken Teriyaki Noodles:
- Large Skillet or Wok: To cook the chicken and noodles.
- Medium Pot: For boiling the noodles.
- Whisk and Small Bowls: To mix and prepare the teriyaki sauce.
- Tongs or Spatula: To toss and combine the noodles and chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions For Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
- Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce, but homemade gives a more personalized flavor. - Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for best results. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free noodles and substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. - Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can use any type of noodle you like, such as rice noodles, egg noodles, or even spaghetti.
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is a flavorful, savory dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with the sweet, tangy flavors of homemade teriyaki sauce, all tossed with soft noodles. This dish is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights, while also being satisfying enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re craving Asian-inspired flavors or looking for a quick, tasty dinner, this recipe will hit the spot.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Noodles:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 8 ounces noodles (lo mein, udon, or soba)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ⅓ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (for thickening)
Ingredient Highlights
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well for this recipe. Thighs will be juicier, while breasts are leaner.
- Noodles: Lo mein, udon, or soba noodles are traditional options, but feel free to use your favorite variety or even rice noodles.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from becoming too salty.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the teriyaki sauce.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the teriyaki sauce and give it a glossy finish.
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Noodles:
- Boil the Noodles: While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 4-6 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Thicken the Sauce: In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Add this slurry to the sauce mixture and whisk to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the sauce into the skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Assemble the Dish:
- Combine Chicken and Noodles: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the teriyaki sauce to coat the chicken.
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: Let the noodles cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the chicken teriyaki noodles hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450-500kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 35g
Conclusion
This recipe a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and soft, chewy noodles. It’s the perfect go-to meal for busy nights or for sharing with friends and family. The sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce coats every bite of chicken, and the noodles absorb the flavors, creating a balanced, comforting dish.
What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or even swapping the noodles for something else like rice or zoodles for a lighter twist. Whether you keep it classic or make it your own, Chicken Teriyaki Noodles is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Enjoy making this dish, and I’m sure it will be a hit at the dinner table! Be sure to share a picture of your creation on social media and tag me—I can’t wait to see how your Chicken Teriyaki Noodles turn out. Happy cooking!