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High-Protein Comfort: Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles

This Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles recipe is the "jackpot" of weeknight dinners: it's incredibly fast, requires zero exotic ingredients, and delivers a massive 28 grams of protein per serving.
Prep Time12 minutes
Cook Time18 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Servings: 3

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 3 tablespoons honey raw or mild-flavored
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger fresh preferred
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 8 oz noodles rice noodles or egg noodles
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds optional

Instructions

  • Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente, usually 6-8 minutes. Drain thoroughly, toss with a little oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  • Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks) if not already done. Toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until evenly coated with a light dusting.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the cornstarch-coated chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F internal temperature. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • Stir in soy sauce, honey, and red chili flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. For a thicker sauce, whisk 1-2 teaspoons additional cornstarch with equal parts water and stir into the bubbling sauce.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss for about 1 minute until every piece is completely coated in the sticky sauce.
  • Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss thoroughly for another minute until noodles are warmed through and coated in sauce. Remove from heat.
  • Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot immediately.