Ditch the takeout menu and whip up these Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in less time than it takes to get a delivery. This recipe is a savory sensation, featuring tender bites of chicken and chewy noodles coated in a glossy, garlic-infused soy glaze. It strikes the perfect balance between savory umami, a hint of sweetness, and the aromatic punch of fresh garlic and ginger. It’s a weeknight hero that brings bold Asian-inspired flavors to your table with minimal effort and cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Better Than Takeout
We all love the convenience of takeout, but this homemade version is fresher, healthier, and customizable. You control the sodium and sugar levels, and there’s no MSG or mystery ingredients. The sauce clings to the noodles perfectly, ensuring every mouthful is packed with flavor. It’s satisfyingly sticky without being greasy.
Quick & Versatile
Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is designed for speed. It uses pantry staples like soy sauce and brown sugar, so you don’t need to hunt for exotic ingredients. It’s also a fantastic “fridge clean-out” meal—toss in whatever veggies you have on hand, from broccoli to bell peppers, and they will taste amazing in this sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 8 oz ramen noodles or spaghetti
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.33 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Boil noodles according to package. Drain.
- Toss chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Sear chicken in a skillet until browned. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Whisk soy sauce, sugar, and ginger. Pour into skillet and thicken.
- Toss noodles in the sauce and chicken. Serve.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Noodles: Ramen noodles (discard the packet), udon, or spaghetti work well.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves! The “sticky garlic” name requires the real deal.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is best to keep it from being too salty.
Brown Sugar: Creates the sticky caramelization.
Cornstarch: Helps velvet the chicken and thicken the sauce.
Smart Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and rice noodles. You can swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef. If you like heat, add a tablespoon of Sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the glaze. Honey can be used in place of brown sugar for a floral sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Boil a pot of water for the noodles. In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce: soy sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, sesame oil, and water. Toss the cubed chicken with a little cornstarch, salt, and pepper—this helps it brown and thickens the sauce later. Mince your garlic cloves.
Cooking Phase
Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a drop of oil to prevent sticking.
While noodles cook, heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes).
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t burn it!
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Let it bubble and reduce for 1-2 minutes until it creates a thick, sticky glaze.
Add the cooked noodles to the pan. Toss vigorously with tongs until the noodles are fully coated in the sauce. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
“Velveting” the chicken (coating it in cornstarch) is a restaurant trick. It creates a barrier that keeps the meat juicy inside while allowing the sauce to cling to the outside. Also, don’t overcook the noodles. Drain them when they are al dente because they will cook a little more when tossed in the hot sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is burning the garlic. Garlic turns bitter instantly when burned. Always add it after the chicken is cooked, just before the liquid sauce goes in, to protect it.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve hot in bowls, topped generously with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve with steamed broccoli or cucumber salad. If you enjoy flavorful chicken dishes, check out our Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Feta for another quick and healthy dinner option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I meal prep this?
Yes, it keeps well for 3-4 days. Add a splash of water when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Q2? Is it spicy?
No, it is savory and sweet. You must add chili flakes if you want spice.
Q3? What kind of noodles should I use?
Instant ramen (without the packet) is the quickest and absorbs sauce well. Spaghetti or linguine are great pantry backups.
Conclusion
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are a flavor bomb that comes together in minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t want to work hard for it.
