Get ready to fall in love with a dish that perfectly combines bold flavors, irresistible textures, and vibrant colors—the Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe is a mouthwatering feast that brings together crispy chicken, fragrant garlic, and silky wide rice noodles tossed in a tangy, savory sauce. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or wanting to impress friends with a restaurant-quality meal, this recipe delivers a satisfying punch that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you—each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that make this dish unforgettable.
- 8 oz wide rice noodles: These provide the perfect chewy texture to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- â…“ cup tamari or soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami depth that balances the sweetness and spice.
- ¼ cup sweet Thai chili sauce: Brings a mild kick and a touch of sweetness to enliven the dish.
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Infuses a nutty richness that elevates every bite.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar: Adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness.
- 1 tbsp sushi ginger, chopped: Offers a subtle zing and freshness in every mouthful.
- Chili flakes, to taste: Customize the heat level just the way you like it.
- ¼ cup water: Helps to create the perfect saucy consistency.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced: The star protein, crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- 2 tbsp flour or cornstarch: Coats the chicken to achieve that irresistible crispiness.
- 3 tbsp salted butter: Adds richness and helps with browning in the pan.
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses a bold, aromatic punch throughout the dish.
- 1 shallot, sliced: Contributes a sweet, delicate onion flavor.
- 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced: Bring color, crunch, and natural sweetness.
- 4 scallions, chopped: Add fresh oniony brightness and a pop of green.
- 1 cup Thai or regular basil, chopped (divided): Introduces herbal freshness and signature fragrance.
- Sesame seeds, for serving: A final touch of nutty crunch and a pretty garnish.
How to Make Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by preparing your wide rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once tender but still slightly firm, drain them thoroughly to avoid sogginess later. Setting them aside now means they’re ready to soak up all the amazing flavors when combined with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Mix together tamari or soy sauce, sweet Thai chili sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, chopped sushi ginger, chili flakes to your liking, and water in a bowl. This harmonious blend creates that perfectly balanced, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that makes this dish shine. Trust me, this sauce is the secret behind the Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe’s addictiveness.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Toss the sliced chicken in flour or cornstarch to give it a light coating, which is key for achieving a crisp crust. Heat two tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Sear it until golden and crispy, about five minutes. Add the remaining butter along with some tamari or soy sauce and chopped garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant. This step seals in richness and infuses the chicken with a wonderful garlic aroma.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, toss in the sliced shallot, bell peppers, and scallions. Cook them for about five minutes until they soften just enough to stay tender-crisp, retaining their vibrant colors and refreshing bite. These veggies not only add texture but also balance the rich chicken and noodles.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add the prepared sauce, cooked noodles, and crispy chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything over medium heat for three to five minutes, allowing the noodles to soak up the sauce and the components to mingle beautifully. Stir in half of the chopped basil, then remove from heat. This melding moment is where the Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe truly comes alive.
Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Dish out the noodles onto serving plates, then sprinkle with the remaining fresh basil and a generous pinch of toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the full spectrum of aroma and flavor.
How to Serve Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh, fragrant herbs like Thai basil or even cilantro add brightness and a slightly sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory noodles. Don’t skimp on sesame seeds—they offer a subtle crunch and nutty accent that perfectly complements the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish can stand proudly on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try a crisp cucumber salad or a simple miso soup. Their lightness refreshes the palate and balances the rich, garlicky flavors of the noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the noodles in individual lettuce cups or styled inside a shallow bowl with extra herbs scattered on top. You can also top it with a fried egg for added indulgence and richness, turning the Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe into a feast that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover noodles in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors intensify as they rest, making reheated portions just as delightful. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the noodles and chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container, remove excess air, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Stir frequently until heated through and enjoy the Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe at its best even on a busy day.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs offer a bit more juiciness and flavor, but breasts are leaner and still crisp up nicely with the cornstarch coating.
What if I can’t find wide rice noodles?
No worries—regular rice noodles or even fettuccine make a good substitute. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking or sogginess. The wide rice noodles, however, capture the sauce better for that ideal texture.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level is easily controlled by the amount of chili flakes you add. You can keep it mild or kick it up depending on your palate. The sweet Thai chili sauce also adds a nice balance to the spice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap chicken for crispy tofu or deliciously sautéed mushrooms. Use vegetarian soy sauce alternatives and follow the same steps for a meat-free take on the Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe.
How long does this recipe take to make?
This dish comes together in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, textures, and colorful ingredients, the Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe is a must-try. It’s an explosion of savory, sweet, spicy, and herbal notes that feels both comforting and exciting. Give it a go tonight—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create something this special and crave-worthy.
Print
Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
This Crispy Garlic Chicken Drunken Noodles recipe combines tender, pan-fried chicken with fragrant Thai basil, crisp bell peppers, and chewy wide rice noodles tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made of tamari, sweet chili, and toasted sesame oil. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and flavorful stir-fried dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a delightful Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Noodles & Sauce
- 8 oz wide rice noodles
- â…“ cup tamari or soy sauce
- ¼ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sushi ginger, chopped
- Chili flakes, to taste
- ¼ cup water
Chicken & Coating
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced
- 2 tbsp flour or cornstarch
Cooking & Garnish
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 shallot, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 4 scallions, chopped
- 1 cup Thai or regular basil, chopped (divided)
- Sesame seeds, for serving
Instructions
- Cook noodles: Prepare the wide rice noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup tamari or soy sauce, ¼ cup sweet Thai chili sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp chopped sushi ginger, chili flakes to taste, and ¼ cup water until well combined. Set aside the sauce.
- Cook the chicken: Toss the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch to evenly coat. Heat 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken becomes crispy and browned. Then add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce, and the chopped garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sliced shallot, bell peppers, and chopped scallions. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their aroma.
- Combine and finish: Pour in the prepared sauce, then add the cooked noodles and the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together thoroughly and continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes so the noodles absorb the sauce and the dish heats evenly. Stir in half of the chopped basil, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Serve: Plate the drunken noodles and garnish with the remaining fresh basil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve warm to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts based on preference, but thighs provide more tenderness and flavor.
- If you prefer gluten-free, be sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce and cornstarch instead of flour.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier dish.
- Use fresh Thai basil for authentic flavor; if unavailable, sweet basil is a suitable substitute.
- Make sure to drain noodles well to avoid sogginess in the final dish.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable butter or oil.
