Name: Peanut Chicken and Noodles
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 packages Asian flavored Ramen noodles; 4 cups cut-up vegetables; 1.25 cups water; 0.25 cups creamy peanut butter; 0.25 cups low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 2 cups chopped cooked chicken; 1 can sliced water chestnuts; 1 can bamboo shoots; 0.25 cups chopped unsalted roasted peanuts; 0.25 cups sliced green onions

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The first time I had Peanut Chicken and Noodles, I was taken on a culinary adventure that transported me to the vibrant streets of Southeast Asia. With the sun setting behind me and the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air, I knew that this dish was something special. It’s comforting, warm, and packed with flavors that echo the heart of home cooking. Each bite combines the creaminess of peanut butter and the crunch of fresh vegetables, making it a dish that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, Peanut Chicken and Noodles is always a hit. I love how the vibrant colors of the vegetables brighten up the plate and my mood! This recipe has become a family favorite that I find myself returning to time and again, especially on busy days when I need something quick yet satisfying. It’s a simple dish that reminds me of the joys of home cooking, and I can’t wait to share this delightful experience with you.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
540 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet

Why This Peanut Chicken and Noodles Is a Winner

Rich in Flavor

What I adore most about Peanut Chicken and Noodles is how rich and indulgent it is. The creamy peanut butter sauce envelops the chicken and noodles, creating a luxurious mouthfeel that’s hard to resist. The combination of savory and sweet elements, thanks to the brown sugar and soy sauce, makes every bite a delightful surprise.

Quick and Easy

In our fast-paced lives, finding a recipe that is both quick and delicious is a treasure. This dish comes together in a flash, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spare. You can go from prep to plate in less than an hour, leaving you more time to spend with your loved ones.

Customizable Ingredients

Another fantastic aspect is the ability to customize. You can throw in your favorite vegetables or even swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, depending on what you have on hand. This flexibility allows it to fit a variety of dietary preferences and tastes.

Colorful Presentation

Let’s talk about presentation! The vivid colors of the fresh vegetables like broccoli, red pepper, and green onions not only add visual appeal but also provide a range of nutrients. Eating with our eyes first makes the experience even more delightful.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I serve Peanut Chicken and Noodles, I can always count on the compliments. It’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family dinners. Watching everyone enjoy the meal brings me such joy!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is also excellent for meal prep. You can make a big batch at the start of the week, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day. It’s hearty enough to keep you satisfied, yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down.

What’s In This Peanut Chicken and Noodles

When it comes to the ingredients in Peanut Chicken and Noodles, each component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and delicious dish. The combination of Ramen noodles, fresh vegetables, and a rich peanut butter sauce not only brings texture but also flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Let’s take a closer look at the key players in this delightful dish.

Asian flavored Ramen noodles (Two 3-ounce packages): These provide a quick and easy base, bringing a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
Cut-up vegetables (4 cups): Suggesting a mix of broccoli, red pepper, snow peas, and carrots adds color and crunch. You can customize based on your preferences.
Water (1¼ cups): Can be substituted with coconut milk for a creamier texture, enhancing the overall flavor.
Creamy peanut butter (¼ cup): This is the star of the show, lending its nutty richness to the dish.
Low sodium soy sauce (¼ cup): It adds umami and depth, making the flavors pop.
Packed brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the saltiness and brings a hint of sweetness.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): This thickens the sauce, giving it a luscious consistency.
Crushed red pepper (½ teaspoon): A small amount adds a kick of heat that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Chopped cooked chicken (2 cups): You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, adding protein to the dish.
Sliced water chestnuts (One 8-ounce can, drained): These add a nice crunch and texture.
Bamboo shoots (One 8-ounce can, drained): They contribute to the overall texture and flavor profile.
Chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (¼ cup): Used as a topping, they add crunch and a nutty flavor.
Sliced green onions (¼ cup): Fresh and vibrant, these add a burst of freshness to the dish.

How to Cook Peanut Chicken and Noodles

Cooking Peanut Chicken and Noodles is a breeze, and you’ll feel like a pro in no time! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that your family will love. Let’s dive in!

Start by setting aside one seasoning packet from the Ramen noodles for later. Toss the other packet aside as we won’t be using it in this recipe. This small step helps in keeping the flavors just right.
In a large saucepan, bring 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, break up the noodles slightly and add them to the water along with the cut-up vegetables. The vibrant colors will brighten up your kitchen! Cook for about 3 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they don’t get too soft.
After 3 minutes, drain the noodles and vegetables, then return them to the saucepan. This is where you’re laying the foundation for a delicious meal.
While the noodles are cooking, it’s time to prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the 1¼ cups of water (or coconut milk), peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, crushed red pepper, and the seasoning packet you saved earlier. This mixture will become the rich sauce that binds everything together.
Cook and stir this sauce over medium heat until it thickens and starts bubbling, which usually takes just a few minutes. Keep whisking until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps of peanut butter.
Once the sauce is thickened and bubbly, stir in the chicken, water chestnuts, and bamboo shoots. Allow these ingredients to heat through for a couple of minutes, infusing the sauce with their flavors.
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the chicken mixture into the large saucepan with the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
Finally, serve the dish warm, topping it off with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and sliced green onions. This adds the perfect finishing touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation!
Enjoy your Peanut Chicken and Noodles with family and friends, savoring the wonderful medley of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking noodles: When boiling the Ramen noodles, keep them slightly undercooked as they will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
Flavor adjustments: Taste the sauce before adding the chicken; you can adjust the sweetness or saltiness by adding more brown sugar or soy sauce to suit your taste.
Vegetable choices: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have at home. Frozen peas or bell peppers work great too.
Storage: The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring everything back to life.

Tips for Success

For a successful cooking experience with Peanut Chicken and Noodles, consider these helpful tips to enhance your dish and make the process even smoother.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if the noodles dry out.
Freezing: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a light salad for a complete meal.
Prep in advance: Chop your vegetables ahead of time to make cooking quicker during the week.
Experiment with flavors: Try adding a squeeze of lime or a splash of sesame oil to elevate the flavors even more.
Nut allergies: If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a similar texture.

What to Pair With Peanut Chicken and Noodles

When it comes to serving Peanut Chicken and Noodles, there are plenty of delightful options to consider that will enhance your meal. Here’s how you can round out your dining experience:

Steamed vegetables: Pair with a medley of steamed broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for added nutrients and color.
Fresh salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the peanut sauce.
Spring rolls: Serve alongside fresh or fried spring rolls for a fun appetizer that complements the Asian flavors.
Rice: For a heartier option, serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Sipping suggestion: A chilled iced tea or lemonade works wonderfully to refresh your palate between mouthfuls.
Casual gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends; it’s easy to make in large batches.
Seasonal occasions: Enjoy it during any season, as it’s satisfying enough for winter but light enough for summer dining.

FAQ

Absolutely! Peanut Chicken and Noodles is a great dish for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water if needed to keep it from drying out. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying!

Yes, you can definitely customize the protein in Peanut Chicken and Noodles. While chicken is a classic choice, you could also use shrimp, tofu, or even leftover turkey. Simply cook the protein of your choice until it’s fully cooked and add it to the sauce just like you would with the chicken.

Definitely! Peanut Chicken and Noodles is very kid-friendly, thanks to its creamy peanut butter sauce and colorful vegetables. The flavors are mild and appealing to younger palates, while the dish is still nutritious. You can also adjust the heat level by reducing or omitting the crushed red pepper to make it even more kid-friendly.

To make Peanut Chicken and Noodles vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu or additional vegetables. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for added flavor. The dish will still be just as delicious and satisfying!

Conclusion

In summary, Peanut Chicken and Noodles is a wonderful dish that brings together a delightful array of flavors and textures. Its creamy sauce and colorful ingredients make it a standout meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it’s a relaxed dinner at home or a gathering with friends. Enjoy every bite and the smiles it brings!