When you’re craving a delightful blend of flavors and textures, the Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl is your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, savory noodles, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with a rich, tangy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with vibrant nutrition.
Why We Love This Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl Recipe
This Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home or your personal preferences, ensuring that every bowl can be uniquely tailored to your taste. Secondly, the combination of flavors, with the sweetness of brown sugar balancing the savory notes of soy sauce and the warm hints of ginger and garlic, makes each bite a culinary delight. Lastly, the dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a go-to for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients about Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl
To make a delicious Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
- 1 (10 ounce) package Chinese egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 0.25 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 0.5 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 0.5 medium poblano pepper, sliced
- 3 stalks green onions, white parts only, chopped
- 0.5 cup snow peas
- 4 mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chile paste
- 0.5 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
How to Make Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl Directions
Creating your Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl involves a few straightforward steps. Start by seasoning the chicken breast halves with Chinese five-spice powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the grapeseed oil. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 7-10 minutes or until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Chinese egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture, which typically takes about 7-9 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside, making sure they don’t stick together.
Now, it’s time to stir-fry your vegetables. In a large wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced red cabbage and shredded carrots to the wok, stirring them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Next, add the red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and the chopped white parts of the green onions. Keep stirring until the vegetables are tender.
Then, toss in the snow peas, sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, and grated ginger, stirring everything together until fragrant, which should take about one minute. This step enhances the flavors of the dish, making it aromatic and inviting.
Now, return the sliced chicken and cooked noodles to the wok, mixing everything well to combine the ingredients evenly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, chile paste, and Sriracha sauce until well combined. Pour the sauce over your chicken and noodle mixture in the wok. Continue to stir-fry for another 3 minutes, allowing the noodles and chicken to soak up all the rich flavors of the sauce.
Once everything is heated through and well combined, it’s time to serve. Use deep bowls to portion out the noodle bowls, and for an extra touch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. If desired, add a wedge of lime on the side for a refreshing squeeze that enhances the flavors.
How to Serve Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl
Serving your Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl can be a delightful experience for both you and your diners. Start by ladling generous portions of the noodle and chicken mixture into deep bowls, ensuring each bowl is filled with a colorful array of vegetables. The bright reds and greens not only add to the visual appeal but also highlight the freshness of the dish.
For an added layer of flavor, consider serving your bowls with lime wedges on the side. A quick squeeze of lime juice just before eating brightens the entire dish and enhances the taste of the ingredients. You may also want to offer additional Sriracha or chile paste for those who enjoy a spicy kick. If you have any extra green onions or toasted sesame seeds, sprinkle them on top as a finishing touch.
Pair your sesame chicken noodle bowl with a side of crispy wontons or a light cucumber salad for a complete meal experience. This dish shines brightly as a stand-alone meal but can also complement other Asian-inspired dishes perfectly.
Expert Tips: Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl
To make sure your Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, don’t rush the cooking process. Take your time to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are perfectly tender yet still crisp. Overcooking can lead to soggy vegetables that don’t have the same vibrant flavor or texture.
When cooking the noodles, be careful not to overcook them. They should be al dente so they hold up well when mixed with the sauce and other ingredients. To prevent sticking, toss them with a bit of sesame oil after draining.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available or what’s in season. Broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas are great alternatives. Similarly, you can substitute the chicken breast with tofu or shrimp for a different protein source.
If you’re serving a crowd, you can easily double the recipe to accommodate more guests without much additional effort. Just make sure your wok or skillet is large enough to handle the increased volume, or cook in batches.
How to Store Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl is simple and keeps your meal fresh for later. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftover noodle bowl into an airtight container. Properly stored, your leftovers can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
When reheating, it’s best to add a splash of water or a little additional soy sauce to moistening the noodles, which can dry out in the fridge. Heat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
You may also freeze the chicken and noodle mixture if needed. In a freezer-safe container, it can be stored for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation of Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl
Exploring variations of the Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl can add fun twists to a classic favorite. Start by changing the protein source. Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, beef, or tofu, giving the dish unique flavors while still retaining the core elements.
You might want to experiment with the vegetable mix as well. Try adding bok choy for a crunchy texture or snap peas for their sweetness. Bell peppers come in various colors; mixing them not only enhances the dish’s appearance but brings different flavors as well.
If you’re looking for a spicier version, consider adding jalapeños or additional Sriracha for an extra kick. For a heartier meal, toss in some cooked edamame or even nuts like cashews for a delightful crunch.
Lastly, switch up the noodles! If you’re feeling adventurous, use rice noodles, soba noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
FAQ
What is a Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl?
A Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl is a delicious dish made with chicken, Chinese egg noodles, assorted vegetables, and tossed in a flavorful sesame sauce. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner.
Can I customize the vegetables in the Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl?
Absolutely! You can use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand. Popular choices include broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. The beauty of this dish is its versatility.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make the Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. This will maintain the dish’s heartiness without using meat.
Can leftovers of the Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl be stored?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to reheat gently to prevent the noodles from becoming too soft.
What can I serve with Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl?
This noodle bowl can stand alone as a complete meal, but you can also serve it with side dishes like spring rolls, a light salad, or crispy wontons for a more fulfilling dining experience.
Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 pieces skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
Cooking Oils
- 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil For cooking chicken
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil For stir-frying vegetables
Noodles
- 1 package Chinese egg noodles 10 ounces
Vegetables
- 0.25 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
- 1 piece carrot, shredded
- 0.5 piece red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 0.5 piece medium poblano pepper, sliced
- 3 stalks green onions, white parts only, chopped
- 0.5 cup snow peas
- 4 pieces mushrooms, sliced
Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root
Sauce
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chile paste
- 0.5 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Season the chicken breast halves with Chinese five-spice powder.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add grapeseed oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 7-10 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the Chinese egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes.
- Drain the noodles and set aside, ensuring they don’t stick together.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
- In a large wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced red cabbage and shredded carrots, stirring for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and the chopped white parts of green onions, stirring until tender.
- Toss in the snow peas, sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, and grated ginger, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the sliced chicken and cooked noodles to the wok, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, chile paste, and Sriracha until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and noodle mixture in the wok, stirring for another 3 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld.
Serving
- Ladle portions of the mixture into deep bowls.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve with lime wedges for added freshness.
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