Name: Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite‑sized pieces; ¼ cup soy sauce; 3 tbsp honey; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; ½ 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)

A quick and flavorful Asian-inspired noodle dish, these Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles bring together tender bites of chicken coated in a sticky garlic-soy honey sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked noodles. It’s one of those recipes I keep in rotation for when I want something satisfying, fast, and delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how fast this dish comes together—it’s ready in just 20 minutes. The sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky heat, with a glossy texture that clings to every strand of noodle. It’s easy to adapt, too. Whether I want to throw in some vegetables or switch up the protein, this recipe never gets boring. It tastes like takeout, but I make it fresher and better at home.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite‑sized pieces
¼ cup soy sauce
3 tbsp honey
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
½ 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)

Directions

I start by mixing soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes in a bowl to create the sticky sauce.
Then I toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch until they’re evenly coated.
In a large skillet or wok, I heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
I add the chicken and cook it for about 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Next, I pour in the sauce and stir well to coat the chicken. I let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens nicely.
While the chicken cooks, I boil the noodles according to the package instructions, drain them, and set them aside.
Once the sauce is thick and glossy, I add the noodles into the skillet and toss everything together.
I finish it off with green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and comes together in just 20 minutes—10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a last-minute lunch idea.

Variations

When I want to mix things up, I swap the chicken for tofu, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef. Sometimes I stir in vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a complete meal. For a gluten-free option, I use tamari and gluten-free noodles. And if I’m craving more heat, I just increase the chili flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I like to add a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles and warm everything gently in a skillet or microwave. It tastes just as good the next day.

FAQs

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If I want a thicker sauce, I either simmer it a little longer or add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water before adding it to the pan.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, I often make it vegetarian by using tofu instead of chicken. I press the tofu to remove moisture, cube it, coat in cornstarch, and cook it just like I would the chicken.

What type of noodles should I use?

I’ve made this with both rice noodles and egg noodles. Either works great. I go for what I have on hand or what I’m in the mood for.

Can I freeze this dish?

I don’t recommend freezing it because the noodles can get mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge within a few days.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild with just a hint of heat from the red chili flakes. I adjust the spice level depending on who I’m cooking for—sometimes I leave the flakes out entirely.

Conclusion

These Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are my go-to for quick comfort food. They’re flavorful, versatile, and easy enough for any night of the week. Whether I’m feeding my family or just making a solo dinner, this recipe always hits the spot.