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Dinner just got an upgrade with these mouthwatering Chicken Teriyaki Noodles. Tender chunks of chicken glazed in a sticky-sweet homemade teriyaki sauce are tossed with perfectly chewy noodles and vibrant greens. Topped with toasted sesame seeds and scallions, each bite bursts with bold, savory flavors and irresistible textures. This dish brings the comfort of a takeout favorite right into your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It is bold, easy, and satisfying, making it perfect for weeknights or casual weekend meals.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
- Enjoy that classic teriyaki flavor without the wait of delivery
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings
- Flexible ingredients allow you to swap noodles, add vegetables, or add spice to your liking
- One-pan meal means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your food
I first made this recipe on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how quickly and easily it came together. Now it is a regular request in our house whenever we crave something comforting but fast.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: juicy and flavorful protein that soaks up the teriyaki sauce beautifully. Choose fresh, firm chicken for the best texture
- Soy sauce: provides the salty backbone of the teriyaki flavor. Opt for naturally brewed soy sauce for richer taste
- Brown sugar: adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce, giving it a glossy finish
- Fresh garlic and ginger: deliver aromatic depth and a bright zing. Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor punch
- Sesame oil: lends rich, toasty notes that elevate the dish
- Cornstarch: thickens the sauce for that glossy, clingy texture that coats every bite
- Lo mein or udon noodles: chewy and hearty, perfect for catching the sauce. Pick fresh or high-quality dried noodles
- Green onions (scallions): add a crunchy, fresh pop at the end
- Toasted sesame seeds: provide a nutty finishing touch
- Spinach or bok choy: a fresh green addition that brings texture and nutrition
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture and let them sit for at least 15 minutes. This gives the chicken a deep infusion of flavor.
- Cook the Noodles:
- Boil the noodles according to their package instructions until just tender. Drain carefully and set aside to keep them ready for tossing later. Avoid overcooking to retain their chewy texture.
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. This step seals in juices and creates a delicious caramelized exterior.
- Add Greens and Sauce:
- Add your choice of greens such as spinach or bok choy to the skillet. Pour in the remaining marinade mixed with a cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly with a shiny glaze.
- Toss with Noodles:
- Add the cooked noodles directly to the skillet. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until the sauce is evenly distributed and the noodles are fully coated.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Finish the dish by sprinkling with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the full burst of flavors and textures.
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My favorite part has to be the homemade teriyaki sauce that strikes such a perfect balance between sweet, salty, and savory. One of my best memories is making this with my family on a chilly evening while sharing stories around the table.
Storage Tips
Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent the noodles from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as noodles tend to become mushy or lose their texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap chicken with tofu or mushrooms to make it vegetarian. Soy sauce can be replaced with tamari for gluten-free needs. If udon or lo mein noodles are unavailable, spaghetti or ramen noodles work great in a pinch. For added spice, toss in red pepper flakes or chili garlic sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken teriyaki noodles alongside crisp cucumber salad or steamed dumplings for a fuller meal. A soft-boiled egg or drizzle of spicy mayo adds richness and a bit of kick. Garnish with extra sesame seeds or fresh herbs for a restaurant-quality finish.
Cultural Context
Teriyaki is a classic Japanese cooking technique that involves glazing food in a sweetened soy-based sauce. This dish captures that comforting umami flavor while blending Western noodle influences for a satisfying fusion bowl. It’s a perfect example of how traditional Asian flavors have become beloved worldwide.
Pro Tips
- Always marinate the chicken at least 15 minutes to build flavor
- Do not skip toasting the sesame seeds for that essential nutty crunch
- Use a large skillet or wok for tossing to prevent noodles from breaking and ensure even cooking
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, store-bought sauces work well, but homemade teriyaki allows you to control the sweetness and saltiness for a fresher taste.
- → What kind of noodles work best?
Lo mein or udon noodles are ideal for their chewy texture, but spaghetti or ramen can be good alternatives if needed.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth in the sauce for a plant-based version.
- → How spicy is this dish?
It is mild by default. To add heat, you can mix in red pepper flakes or chili garlic sauce according to your taste.
- → Can I prep ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken and chop vegetables the night before for a quicker cooking process when ready to serve.
- → Will frozen vegetables work in this dish?
Frozen stir-fry vegetables are a convenient option. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking for best results.