Thai Peanut Chicken Noodles

Chicken and noodles tossed in a creamy peanut sauce.

Thai Peanut Chicken Noodles:

A creamy, savory peanut sauce coats tender chicken and crisp vegetables, tossed with noodles for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

For the chicken and noodles:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), thinly sliced
• 8 oz (225 g) noodles (rice noodles, soba noodles, or spaghetti work well)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for sautéing)
• 1 bell pepper, julienned
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

For the peanut sauce:

• ¼ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice (about half a lime)
• 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
• 1-2 tbsp water (to thin out the sauce to desired consistency)
• 1 tsp chili paste or sriracha (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles:
   • Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
2. Cook the chicken:
   • While the noodles are cooking, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
   • Add the sliced chicken to the pan and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the peanut sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice, grated ginger, and chili paste or sriracha (if using).
   • Add 1-2 tbsp of water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
4. Combine the chicken, noodles, and vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the cooked noodles, cooked chicken, bell pepper, and carrot.
   • Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles and toss everything together until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Serve:
   • Divide the Thai peanut chicken noodles into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations :

• Protein Options: Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different twist.
• Spice it Up: Add more chili paste or fresh chili slices if you enjoy a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Variations: Try adding cucumbers, spinach, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Noodle Alternatives: If you’re looking for a low-carb version, try zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Enjoy your meal!