Go Back
Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken

Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This easy weeknight dinner combines the spicy kick of red pepper flakes with the savory depth of soy sauce and fresh ginger. With its quick prep and cook time, you’ll find it irresistible to whip up this delight tonight!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 490

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup Peanut or sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons Crushed red pepper flakes 1 to 2 tablespoons for that spicy kick
  • 1/3 cup Raw peanuts roughly chopped for crunch
  • 2 to 3 strips Orange or clementine peel for a citrusy zing
  • 8 ounces Chinese egg noodles or ramen noodles to create the base
  • 1/2 cup Low sodium soy sauce to add depth
  • 3 tablespoons Pomegranate juice (optional) for sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons Honey to balance flavors
  • 2 tablespoons Raw sesame seeds for garnish
  • 3/4 pound Ground chicken the protein powerhouse
  • 3 cups Shiitake or cremini mushrooms sliced for earthiness
  • 1 inch Fresh ginger grated for warmth
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced or grated for flavor
  • 2 cups Kale or green cabbage roughly chopped for health
  • Green onions for serving and garnish
  • Pomegranate for serving and garnish

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Saucepan
  • Grater
  • Peeler
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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!

Notes

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: