Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

These Kung Pao chicken noodles are easy to make, saucy, full of flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a dish that your whole family will love. With its delightful combination of spices and textures, this recipe stands out as a go-to option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Saucy: The blend of tamari, honey, and chili paste creates a rich sauce that elevates the chicken and noodles.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to make it your own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the vegetables, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Family-Friendly: With its savory flavors and satisfying textures, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready will ensure you can focus on creating your delicious Kung Pao chicken noodles.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables, allowing for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Keeps ingredients organized during marination for optimal flavor infusion.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth blending of sauce ingredients without clumps.

Ingredients

To make these flavorful Kung Pao chicken noodles, gather the following ingredients:

Noodles

• 12 ounces noodles of choice

Chicken Marinade

• 1 pound chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari (or soy sauce if not gluten free)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon chili paste

Sauce Mixture

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 cup diced green onion (mostly the white part)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup low sodium tamari (or soy sauce if not gluten free)
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons chili paste (I used sambel oelek)
• 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar (I did 1, but use 2 if you prefer it sweeter)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (can omit for less spice)
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Garnish

• 1/3 cup crushed peanuts
• 1/3 cup diced green onion (mostly the green part)

How to Make Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into small, roughly 1-inch pieces. Place them in a mixing bowl with the tamari or soy sauce, honey, and chili paste. Mix well and set aside to marinate; ideally for 1-2 hours but even just 30 minutes works.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for water and cornstarch until combined.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add in the diced green onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add marinated chicken pieces to the skillet (discarding any leftover marinade). Fry on each side for about 2-3 minutes or until cooked through with an internal temperature reaching 165°F.

Step 6: Combine Sauce with Noodles

In another pot over low heat, add the sauce mixture. Whisk together cornstarch with water until smooth; add this mixture into your sauce. Let it thicken slightly before adding in drained noodles; mix well to combine.

Step 7: Final Touches

Fold in cooked chicken into noodle mixture gently. Allow flavors to blend together over low heat for a minute or two.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with crushed peanuts and diced green onions. Serve immediately as is or alongside your choice of vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.

Enjoy this quick yet flavorful Kung Pao chicken noodles recipe!

How to Serve Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

Serving Kung Pao chicken noodles can be as creative as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal and impress your family or guests.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Broccoli: This adds a nice crunch and pairs well with the savory sauce.
• Bell Peppers: Sliced bell peppers enhance flavor and provide vibrant colors to the dish.
• Snow Peas: These give a sweet, crisp bite that complements the noodles perfectly.

Top with Extra Garnishes

• Crushed Peanuts: Sprinkle on top for added texture and nuttiness.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Sliced Chili Peppers: For those who enjoy heat, fresh slices add an extra kick.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can balance the dish’s richness.
• Asian Slaw: Crunchy slaw with sesame dressing will add a delightful contrast in texture.

How to Perfect Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

Perfecting Kung Pao chicken noodles requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish comes out just right.

• Marinate the Chicken Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor significantly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and green onions will elevate the taste compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of chili paste or red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Cooking them just right will prevent mushiness when combined with the sauce.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Ensure you whisk cornstarch thoroughly with water before adding it to prevent clumps.
• Mix Thoroughly: Combine all ingredients well so every bite is packed with flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

Complementing your Kung Pao chicken noodles with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
2. Sesame Green Beans: Crisp green beans tossed in sesame oil make a nutritious side that pairs well.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies offer a delightful crunch alongside your noodles.
4. Miso Soup: A light miso soup can serve as a refreshing start to your meal.
5. Chili Garlic Edamame: Spicy edamame adds protein and flavor, making it an excellent appetizer option.
6. Crispy Tofu Bites: Marinated and fried tofu bites provide a great source of protein while complementing the Asian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kung Pao chicken noodles, avoid these common pitfalls for optimal flavor and texture.

• Bold Marinade Timing: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Ideally, let it sit for 1-2 hours for the best taste.
• Bold Overcooking Noodles: Cooking noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely to achieve the perfect texture.
• Bold Skipping the Sauce Prep: Forgetting to whisk together sauce ingredients beforehand can result in uneven flavor. Always prepare your sauce before cooking.
• Bold Ignoring Garnishes: Neglecting garnishes like crushed peanuts and green onions can diminish visual appeal and crunch. Always add these final touches for a complete dish.
• Bold Using High Heat: Cooking on high heat may burn ingredients quickly. Use medium/low heat for better control and even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure as much air is removed as possible.

Reheating Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place noodles in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl; cover loosely and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over low heat, stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Kung Pao chicken noodles.

What type of noodles should I use for Kung Pao Chicken Noodles?

You can use any type of noodle you prefer, such as rice noodles, egg noodles, or whole wheat noodles.

Can I customize the spice level in Kung Pao Chicken Noodles?

Yes! Adjust the chili paste and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. For milder flavors, reduce the amount used.

How do I make Kung Pao Chicken Noodles vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How long does it take to prepare Kung Pao Chicken Noodles?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes, including prep time and cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

These Kung Pao chicken noodles are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Their versatility allows for customization based on your preferences—feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli! Give this recipe a try for an easy yet satisfying meal that everyone will love.