Name: Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 tbsp honey; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional); 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles); 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comforting, and just downright addictive, then Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and savory garlic sauce with perfectly cooked noodles that soak up all those incredible flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress friends with something homemade and downright delicious, these noodles deliver that satisfying, sticky, garlicky goodness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles lies in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients that come together to create a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each item on this list plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken pieces to the punchy garlic and honey sauce that gives the dish its signature sticky glaze.

1 lb chicken breast or thighs: Tender, bite-sized pieces provide the meaty base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds rich umami depth and saltiness to the sauce.
3 tbsp honey: A natural sweetener that creates that signature sticky glaze everyone loves.
4 garlic cloves, minced: The star ingredient that delivers an irresistible fragrant punch.
1 tsp grated ginger: Fresh ginger brings a subtle warmth and zing that balances garlic perfectly.
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these add just the right kick.
2 tbsp cornstarch: Coats the chicken to give a crispy, velvety texture and helps thicken the sauce.
2 tbsp vegetable oil: Essential for frying the chicken until golden and delicious.
8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles): Acts as the perfect vehicle soaking up all the sauce and flavors.
2 green onions, chopped: Adds fresh color and a mild onion crunch as a garnish.
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional): A nutty finishing touch for extra texture and visual appeal.

How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red chili flakes in a bowl. This combination is the secret to that luscious sticky coating that clings to every piece of chicken and noodle. Taking the time to blend these flavors well means your final dish will be bursting with rich, sweet, and savory notes in every bite.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Toss the chicken pieces evenly with cornstarch. This simple step might seem small, but it’s the key to getting that irresistible crispy texture on the chicken once cooked. The cornstarch also helps to thicken the sauce later when you combine everything, ensuring the noodles get perfectly sticky.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Let it sizzle and cook until golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Cooking the chicken without overcrowding the pan ensures it browns nicely for that rich, caramelized flavor that makes Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles so irresistible.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Simmer

Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken and stir thoroughly to coat every piece. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce thickens and turns glossy, sticking perfectly to the chicken. Watching it transform in the pan is one of the best parts of making this dish!

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

While your sauce is thickening, cook the noodles according to the package instructions—whether rice noodles or egg noodles, they need to be tender but still have a nice bite. Drain them well to avoid sogginess and set aside for the next step.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Noodles

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with chicken and sauce, then toss everything together so the noodles soak up all those delicious flavors. This final toss ensures every strand of noodle glistens with that signature garlic and honey glaze, creating a perfectly unified dish.

How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles

Garnishes

Never underestimate the power of a great garnish. Chopped green onions add a refreshing crunch and a pop of vibrant color that makes these noodles even more inviting. If you’re feeling fancy or want a bit of extra texture, sprinkle sesame seeds on top—they bring a subtle nuttiness that complements the sticky sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are quite flavorful on their own, but pairing them with simple sides can round out your meal perfectly. Light steamed or stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli provide a crisp contrast, while a fresh cucumber salad with a tangy dressing adds a cool, refreshing balance to the richness of the noodles.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles in individual lettuce cups for a handheld delight that’s both messy and satisfying. Alternatively, plate the noodles in a colorful bowl topped with a soft-boiled egg or crushed peanuts to add layers of texture and flavor. Presentation is all about making every bite feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers (which can be a challenge), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and retain much of that sticky flavor, ready for a quick reheat.

Freezing

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles can be frozen in portion-sized containers, although the noodles might soften slightly after thawing. To minimize this, undercook the noodles slightly if you plan to freeze the dish, and freeze within a day of cooking for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to help loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the chicken tender and the noodles from getting mushy. A quick re-toss in the pan will bring the sticky magic back to life.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles?

Absolutely! Rice noodles and egg noodles are great choices, but you can also experiment with udon or soba noodles to give the dish a different texture and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it necessary to use both garlic and ginger in the sauce?

Both ingredients add unique layers of flavor—the garlic gives pungency and depth while the ginger adds warmth and brightness. Omitting either changes the flavor profile, so it’s best to keep both for the authentic taste.

How spicy is this dish with the red chili flakes?

The red chili flakes add a mild to moderate heat depending on how much you use. If you prefer less spice, simply leave them out or reduce the amount. The dish’s flavor stays fantastic even without heat.

Can I make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or your favorite vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetarian soy sauce and follow the same steps for a delicious plant-based version.

What’s the best way to get the sauce sticky without it being too sweet?

The balance of soy sauce and honey is key. If you find it too sweet, reduce the honey slightly and add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to brighten the flavor. Cooking the sauce down until thickened also concentrates the taste and creates the perfect sticky texture.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for any night when you want something quick yet impressive. I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to favorite too. Go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy every delicious, sticky bite!

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 25 reviews

Author: Gabriel
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles is a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory garlic honey sauce, served over perfectly cooked noodles. This comforting meal combines bold flavors with a sticky texture that clings to every bite, garnished with fresh green onions and optional sesame seeds for added crunch and aroma.

Instructions

Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes if using. Stir well to create a flavorful sticky sauce that will coat the chicken perfectly.
Coat the chicken: Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This step helps to create a crispy texture and thickens the sauce later on.
Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Add the sauce: Pour the prepared garlic honey sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat all the pieces evenly. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky.
Prepare the noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until tender. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set aside.
Combine noodles and chicken: Add the cooked noodles into the skillet with the sticky chicken. Toss everything together carefully, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce and mixed with the chicken.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the dish for a fresh and crunchy finish. Serve hot and enjoy your sticky garlic chicken noodles!

Notes

You can use either chicken breast or thighs depending on your preference; thighs offer a juicier texture.
Red chili flakes are optional; adjust the amount or omit for a milder dish.
Rice noodles or egg noodles both work well. Choose based on your taste or dietary needs.
For gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase cornstarch by 1 teaspoon.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Asian