
Description
Garlic Chicken Noodles
Enjoy a hearty bowl of garlic chicken noodles! With a touch of garlic and soy sauce, it’s a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
Chicken breast, noodles
Soy sauce, garlic
Green onions, carrots
Steps:
Boil noodles.
Sauté garlic, cook chicken.
Add soy sauce, mix with noodles and veggies.
#GarlicLovers
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect garlic chicken noodles every time.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- While the noodles cook, thinly slice the chicken breast. Mince the garlic and thinly slice the green onions and carrots.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Increase heat to high. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- Add the sliced carrots to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Pour in the soy sauce, and add the cooked noodles and green onions. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it coat the noodles evenly.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs well with various sides. For a complete meal, serve with a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. Garnish with extra sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner or for packing into lunch containers the next day.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook noodles, sauté garlic, brown chicken, add veggies, toss everything with soy sauce, and serve hot. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking, as the process moves quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or firm tofu are excellent substitutes for chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What type of noodles work best? Lo mein, udon, spaghetti, or ramen noodles all work wonderfully. Choose based on your texture preference.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free noodles (like rice noodles) and substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes! Bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms would be great additions. Add harder veggies with the carrots and softer greens at the very end.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant.
- Crowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once steams it instead of browning it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy reserved water is key for creating a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the noodles.
- Using low-sodium soy sauce without adjusting: Taste as you go. If using regular soy sauce, you may not need additional salt.
Conclusion
This garlic chicken noodles recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a profoundly satisfying meal. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable to your taste and what you have on hand. Mastering the quick stir-fry technique and avoiding common pitfalls will ensure a restaurant-quality dish from your own kitchen any night of the week. #GarlicLovers