Here’s a delicious and easy Chicken and Rice Noodle recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. This dish is inspired by Asian flavors, blending tender chicken, rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Chicken and Rice Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe
Ingredients:
Rice Noodles: 200 grams
Chicken Breast: 1 large, thinly sliced
Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons (for cooking)
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1-inch piece, minced
Bell Pepper: 1 (any color), thinly sliced
Carrot: 1, julienned
Snow Peas or Green Beans: 100 grams
Scallions: 2, chopped
Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons
Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons
Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon
Salt & Pepper: to taste
Sesame Seeds and Fresh Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Rice Noodles:
Begin by preparing the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves soaking them in hot water for about 5–7 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s golden brown and fully cooked (about 4-5 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add Vegetables:
Add bell pepper, carrot, and snow peas or green beans to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the soaked rice noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and lime juice. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, until the noodles absorb the flavors.
Serve:
Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for a Flavor Boost:
Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Swap chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for variety.
Use vegetable broth instead of water to soak the rice noodles for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
Calories: 400 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fats: 12g
This recipe is great for meal-prepping, as it reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting, flavorful meal in minutes!
Variations to Try
This Chicken and Rice Noodle dish is versatile, making it easy to switch up the ingredients to suit your taste. Here are a few exciting variations to try:
Thai-Inspired Peanut Sauce Twist:
Substitute the soy and oyster sauces with a creamy peanut sauce. Mix 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with a tablespoon each of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a dash of sriracha for heat. This variation gives the dish a nutty, rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rice noodles.
Lemongrass and Coconut Flavor:
For a Thai-inspired coconut twist, add a tablespoon of minced lemongrass and half a cup of coconut milk to the sauce. The coconut adds a creamy texture, while lemongrass brings a refreshing citrus note.
Veggie-Loaded Version:
Boost your intake of vegetables by adding mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli to the stir-fry.
You can increase the volume and nutrients without drastically altering the taste. Just be sure to adjust the sauce if you add more veggies to ensure they’re well-coated.
Sweet and Spicy Mango Chili:
Add a tropical flair by incorporating diced mango and a teaspoon of chili flakes to the mix. The sweetness of the mango complements the savory sauce and spicy chili, creating an unexpected yet delicious twist.
Teriyaki-Style:
Replace the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, slightly thicker glaze on the noodles and chicken. Teriyaki sauce provides a different flavor profile that still matches well with rice noodles.
Why This Recipe is a Weeknight Winner
Quick Cooking Time: Rice noodles cook faster than other types, so you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
One-Skillet Dish: Minimal cleanup means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal.
Adaptable Ingredients: The recipe allows for a range of vegetables, proteins, and sauces, letting you use what’s available in your kitchen.
Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors of this dish make it approachable for younger palates, while customizable spice options can keep it exciting for adults.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
If you plan to make extra for future meals, here’s how to store and reheat it while maintaining quality:
Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you’re adding fresh herbs like cilantro, consider keeping them separate to add upon reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the noodles and prevent them from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts (30-second intervals), stirring occasionally.
Pairing Suggestions
This Chicken and Rice Noodle dish pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages:
Sides: Pair it with a simple Asian-inspired cucumber salad, steamed dumplings, or a miso soup for a complete meal.
Beverages: Jasmine tea, green tea, or a light, fruity white wine like Riesling complements the flavors well. For non-alcoholic options, try iced tea with a hint of lemon.
This Chicken and Rice Noodle recipe is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and versatile meal. It’s satisfying, nutritious, and offers endless possibilities for creative twists and flavor combinations! Enjoy it as a solo weeknight dinner or a family meal that’s sure to be a hit.
