Introduction
This delightful recipe combines tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles in a quick and satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner option or a meal-prep idea for the week ahead, this one-pan wonder using hokkien noodles is sure to please. With a simple two-ingredient sauce and the option to spice things up with chili crisp, this dish marries convenience with deliciousness.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 400g/14oz chicken thighs, skinless boneless, thinly sliced 0.75cm/1/4″ thick (or breast)
– 500g/1 lb hokkien noodles, lo mein, or other noodles from the fridge, prepared per packet, rinsed well, drained
– 1 tbsp peanut oil (or any other neutral oil)
– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 7 green onions, cut into 5cm/2″ lengths, soft dark green parts separated from the white/pale green firmer parts
– 5 cups green cabbage, sliced ~1cm/0.4″ thick (Napa/Chinese cabbage also works)
SAUCE (JUST 2 INGREDIENTS!):
– 2 tbsp kecap manis (sweet soy)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1 pinch white pepper (sub black pepper)
OPTIONAL GROWN UP TOUCH:
– 1 tbsp+ chili crisp, chili paste, or sriracha (add to taste)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
4 servings
This recipe is easy to prepare and packs a flavor punch that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your noodle slurping time!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauce Preparation
Mix the kecap manis and fish sauce together in a small bowl. Set aside.
Prepare Chicken
Toss the thinly sliced chicken thighs with 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce. There is no need to marinate this chicken.
Cook Chicken
In a large 30cm/12″ non-stick pan, heat the peanut oil over high heat until very hot. Add the chicken and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Then, add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Continue to cook for another 30 seconds, or until the chicken is just cooked through.
Add Cabbage
Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. Toss the mixture for about 1 1/2 minutes or until the cabbage starts to soften and become limp.
Incorporate Noodles and Sauce
Add the rinsed and drained hokkien noodles to the pan along with half of the remaining sauce. Toss everything together for about 1 minute until the noodles absorb the sauce, ensuring no liquid pools in the pan. Then, add the rest of the sauce and toss again for another minute or until everything is evenly coated and there is no excess liquid remaining in the pan. If using, add the chili crisp towards the end of cooking.
Finish with Green Onions
Toss in the green parts of the green onions, quickly mixing until they wilt—this should take barely 20 seconds.
Serve
Divide the finished noodle mixture between bowls. Enjoy your noodle dish!
Notes
Noodles
Fresh fridge noodles yield the best results as they closely resemble what you’d find in quality noodle shops. Medium-thick yellow or white noodles work well, but avoid thin, flour-dusted noodles meant for soups. Follow the package instructions for preparation, rinse them off to eliminate excess starch, and drain them well.
Kecap Manis
Kecap manis, also known as sweet soy, is a thick, sweet Indonesian soy sauce characterized by its syrupy consistency and rich, molasses-like flavor. It is generally available in the Asian aisle of most grocery stores.
Chili Sauce Variability
Chili sauces and crisps can vary significantly in terms of spiciness, flavor, and garlickiness. Start by adding a small amount, toss, taste, and adjust as desired to achieve your preferred level of heat.
Cooking Tip
By adding sauce in two batches, it reduces quicker, which is especially helpful on regular stoves. If you are using a powerful burner, you can add all the sauce at once.
Leftover Storage
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be frozen, but the texture of the noodles may not hold up well after thawing.
Preparation Ahead
To save time, you can mix the sauce, cut the chicken and coat it in the sauce, chop the garlic and vegetables, and prepare the noodles in advance. Rinsed and drained noodles can be refrigerated overnight, allowing them to maintain their integrity when cooked.
Cook techniques
Tossing Chicken
Toss chicken with sauce to ensure an even coating and enhance flavor without the need for marination.
Stir-Frying
Cook the chicken over high heat in a non-stick pan for a quick and efficient cooking process that retains moisture and flavor.
Adding Aromatics
Introduce garlic and the white parts of green onions towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and maximize their flavor release.
Cooking Cabbage
Add cabbage and toss it for a short duration to achieve a slightly wilted texture, which enhances its taste without losing crunch.
Combining Noodles and Sauce
Add noodles and half the sauce in stages to allow for better absorption and prevent pooling, enhancing flavor and texture.
Final Toss
Toss in remaining sauce and optional chili crisp towards the end for a burst of flavor and a touch of spice before serving.
FAQ
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
Fresh fridge noodles are recommended for their texture and flavor. Medium-thick yellow or white noodles are also suitable.
Can I use something other than chicken thighs?
Yes, skinless boneless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs.
What is kecap manis?
Kecap manis is a thick, sweet Indonesian soy sauce with a syrupy consistency and rich flavor, commonly found in the Asian aisle of grocery stores.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Add chili crisp or sriracha according to your taste preferences, adjusting gradually for desired spice levels.
How should leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be frozen but may not retain the best quality due to the texture of the noodles.
Conclusion
This chicken and noodle dish is a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and flavorful noodles tossed in a simple yet delicious sauce creates a comforting dish that is sure to please. With the option to customize the heat and flavor with chili sauces, it can cater to various taste preferences. Enjoy slurping this dish straight from the bowl, and savor each bite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Alternative
Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use the same sauce and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Seafood Twist
Substitute chicken with shrimp or fish fillets for a light seafood version of this noodle stir-fry.
Extra Veggies
Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to increase the nutritional value and add more colors to the dish.
Spice it Up
Incorporate different chili sauces or fresh chili peppers for an extra kick, adjusting to your desired spice level.
Sauce Variations
Experiment with adding hoisin sauce or oyster sauce alongside the kecap manis and fish sauce for a unique flavor profile.
Meal Prep Friendly
Prepare the components separately and combine them fresh before serving, allowing for an easy weeknight meal or lunch option.
Side Dishes
Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad to balance the meal.
