Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken
When I first discovered Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. It was a busy weeknight, and I was craving a quick meal that didn’t skimp on flavor. As the aroma of the ginger and garlic filled my kitchen, I felt a wave of comfort wash over me. The beauty of this dish lies in its perfect balance of spicy and savory, combined with the satisfying texture of the noodles and tender chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, I was able to create a dish that not only satisfied my hunger but also warmed my soul. The best part? This delightful meal comes together in just thirty minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when we all need a little extra love in our lives.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
15 mins
15 mins
Medium
490 kcal
34 g
Keto, Low FODMAP
18 g
Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Grater, Peeler, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife
The Charm of This Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken
Quick and Convenient
One of the top reasons I adore Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken is the speed at which it comes together. With only thirty minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. You can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in no time, leaving you more time to relax or catch up on your favorite show.
Flavor Explosion
The combination of flavors in this recipe is simply unbeatable. The spicy kick from the crushed red pepper flakes and the fragrant ginger work harmoniously with the nutty sesame oil, creating a mouthwatering experience. Each bite is packed with a medley of tastes that’ll leave you wanting more. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Healthy and Wholesome
This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also filled with nutritious ingredients. The addition of greens like kale or cabbage adds a healthy crunch, while the ground chicken provides protein that’s both lean and satisfying. This is a dish that makes it easy to eat well without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable to Your Liking
Another aspect I love about Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or even adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you prefer more heat or want to add some seasonal veggies, the possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Leftovers
If you’re anything like me, you might be thrilled to know that this dish makes fantastic leftovers. The flavors continue to meld overnight, making it a great option for lunch the next day. Simply reheat and enjoy a comforting meal again!
Recipe Ingredients for Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken
In any great dish, the ingredients play a vital role in creating a delightful experience. The philosophy behind this recipe is all about balance and harmony, combining the earthy flavors of ground chicken with the brightness of ginger and the boldness of soy sauce. Each ingredient complements the other, leading to a meal that’s savory, spicy, and downright delicious.
- Peanut or sesame oil: 1/3 cup, plus 2 tablespoons
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1 to 2 tablespoons for that spicy kick
- Raw peanuts: 1/3 cup, roughly chopped for crunch
- Orange or clementine peel: 2 to 3 strips for a citrusy zing
- Chinese egg noodles or ramen noodles: 8 ounces to create the base
- Low sodium soy sauce: 1/2 cup to add depth
- Pomegranate juice: 3 tablespoons (optional) for sweetness
- Honey: 2 tablespoons to balance flavors
- Raw sesame seeds: 2 tablespoons for garnish
- Ground chicken: 3/4 pound, the protein powerhouse
- Shiitake or cremini mushrooms: 3 cups, sliced for earthiness
- Fresh ginger: 1 inch, grated for warmth
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced or grated for flavor
- Kale or green cabbage: 2 cups, roughly chopped for health
- Green onions and pomegranate: for serving and garnish
Recipe Steps for Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken
Cooking is truly a joy, especially when you’re making a dish as delightful as Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you on this flavorful journey. Follow along, and you’ll have a stunning meal ready to enjoy.
- To make the chili oil, heat 1/3 cup of peanut or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the raw peanuts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. Once golden, carefully transfer the oil to a heatproof bowl or glass jar and stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and orange peel.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of soy sauce, pomegranate juice (if using), honey, and 1/3 cup of water. This mixture will add a rich flavor to your dish.
- Next, cook the noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside, making sure to reserve some of the cooking water.
- Using the same skillet you used for the chili oil, return it to medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of peanut or sesame oil. Add the ground chicken and season it with black pepper. Brown the chicken all over, breaking it up as it cooks for about 5 minutes.
- Now, add the shiitake or cremini mushrooms, ginger, and garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the mushrooms have softened.
- Slowly pour in half of the soy sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thoroughly coats the chicken and begins to caramelize, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Once the chicken has caramelized, add the remaining soy sauce mixture along with the kale or green cabbage and raw sesame seeds. Bring everything back to a simmer, allowing the greens to wilt.
- Finally, stir in the noodles and 2 tablespoons of the chili oil you prepared earlier. Remove from heat and serve warm, topped with additional chili oil, green onions, and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use a timer: It’s easy to get distracted while cooking, so using a timer can help you keep track of cooking times.
- Perfecting the chili oil: The key to that aromatic chili oil is to ensure you don’t burn the peanuts. Keep an eye on them!
- Customizing your spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Less for mild, more for a fiery dish!
- Cooking your noodles: Don’t overcook your noodles; they should be al dente, so they can hold up against the sauce.
Substitutions and Tips
Cooking is an adventure, and with Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken, it’s no different! Here are some tips and substitutions to keep in mind as you prepare this delicious dish:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the noodles and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to one month.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the dish.
- Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to enhance the nutrient profile.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the amount of honey or add a touch of brown sugar.
Best Served With
Serving Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken can be as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Side Dishes: Pair your noodles with a light salad featuring mixed greens and a sesame dressing. The freshness complements the dish perfectly.
- Occasions: This recipe is ideal for casual weeknight dinners or even for meal prep on Sundays, making it a versatile choice.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and they’ll taste great the next day!
- Seasonal Pairings: During the summer, consider adding grilled vegetables for a delightful touch; in the winter, roasted veggies add warmth.
- Garnishes: Top with additional green onions and pomegranate seeds right before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor!
FAQ
Conclusion
Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing the perfect harmony between spicy, savory, and nutty notes. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table, making it a new favorite in your recipe rotation. So why not try making it tonight? You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how it fills your home with such enticing aromas!
Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- To make the chili oil, heat 1/3 cup of peanut or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the raw peanuts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. Once golden, carefully transfer the oil to a heatproof bowl or glass jar and stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and orange peel.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of soy sauce, pomegranate juice (if using), honey, and 1/3 cup of water. This mixture will add a rich flavor to your dish.
- Next, cook the noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside, making sure to reserve some of the cooking water.
- Using the same skillet you used for the chili oil, return it to medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of peanut or sesame oil. Add the ground chicken and season it with black pepper. Brown the chicken all over, breaking it up as it cooks for about 5 minutes.
- Now, add the shiitake or cremini mushrooms, ginger, and garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the mushrooms have softened.
- Slowly pour in half of the soy sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thoroughly coats the chicken and begins to caramelize, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Once the chicken has caramelized, add the remaining soy sauce mixture along with the kale or green cabbage and raw sesame seeds. Bring everything back to a simmer, allowing the greens to wilt.
- Finally, stir in the noodles and 2 tablespoons of the chili oil you prepared earlier. Remove from heat and serve warm, topped with additional chili oil, green onions, and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. Enjoy!
