Craving a quick and flavorful dinner that brings a little zing to your weeknight routine? Look no further! These 30 Minute Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken are not only delicious but also come together in just 30 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy evenings. With tender ground chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a spicy sesame sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the kale or cabbage, making it a wholesome choice too!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This recipe is a go-to for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those nights when you just don’t have time to cook a lengthy meal. Second, the combination of flavors is irresistible; the spicy sesame sauce, paired with the fresh ginger and garlic, creates a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Finally, the ingredients are easy to find and typically on hand, making it a great option for impromptu dinners.
Ingredient Rundown
- 1/3 cup, plus 2 tablespoons peanut or sesame oil: This serves as the base for your sauce and gives the noodles a rich, nutty flavor.
- 1-2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes: For that spicy kick that elevates the dish.
- 1/3 cup raw peanuts, roughly chopped: Adds a delightful crunch and complements the noodles beautifully.
- 2-3 strips orange or clementine peel: Infuses a citrusy aroma and brightens the dish.
- 8 ounces Chinese egg noodles or ramen noodles: The star of the dish, providing a chewy texture that holds the sauce well.
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce: Essential for umami flavor and balance in the dish.
- 3 tablespoons pomegranate juice (optional): Adds a hint of sweetness and a burst of color.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Balances the spice and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons raw sesame seeds: For garnish and added texture.
- 3/4 pound ground chicken: A lean protein that cooks quickly and easily.
- 3 cups shiitake or cremini mushrooms, sliced: Earthy flavors that enhance the overall taste.
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated: Provides a spicy warmth that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated: A classic flavor booster.
- 2 cups roughly chopped kale or green cabbage: Adds nutrients and a nice crunch.
- Green onions and pomegranate, for serving: For freshness and a pop of color.
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large pot: For boiling the noodles.
- Large skillet or wok: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Grater: To easily grate the ginger and garlic.
- Chopping board and knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables.
30 Minute Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken. — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Begin by boiling a pot of water. Once boiling, add the Chinese egg noodles or ramen noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut or sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce, pomegranate juice (if using), honey, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add the orange or clementine peel to the sauce to infuse it with citrus flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of peanut or sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
To the skillet, add the sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender. Then, add the chopped kale or green cabbage, cooking until just wilted.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Pour the sauce over the top, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the noodles in bowls, garnished with chopped raw peanuts, sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor.
Fit It to Your Goals
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute ground chicken with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
- Increase the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week for lunches or quick dinners.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
The beauty of these 30 Minute Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken lies in their versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe based on what you have available. If you don’t have pomegranate juice, a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime can also work well. Remember to taste as you go—this recipe is all about balancing those rich, spicy, and sweet flavors to create a dish that’s uniquely yours.
- For a nut-free option, use sunflower oil instead of peanut or sesame oil and omit the peanuts.
- Feel free to use any noodle type you enjoy; the sauce pairs well with many varieties!
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Leftover 30 Minute Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the noodles into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Quick Questions
Can I use different types of noodles?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for Chinese egg noodles or ramen, you can use any noodle you prefer, such as soba or even rice noodles.
Is the pomegranate juice necessary?
No, the pomegranate juice is optional but recommended for a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor. You can substitute it with another sweet ingredient if desired.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you crave more heat, consider adding sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the dish as you cook.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Just cook the chicken and noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
In Closing
If you’re looking for a delicious, quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, these 30 Minute Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken are a must-try. With their rich sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, they’ll surely become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the process of cooking and feel free to make this recipe your own!
30 Minute Spicy Sesame Noodles with Ginger Chicken.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by boiling a pot of water. Once boiling, add the Chinese egg noodles or ramen noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut or sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce, pomegranate juice (if using), honey, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add the orange or clementine peel to the sauce to infuse it with citrus flavor.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of peanut or sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- To the skillet, add the sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender. Then, add the chopped kale or green cabbage, cooking until just wilted.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Pour the sauce over the top, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the noodles in bowls, garnished with chopped raw peanuts, sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a nut-free option, use sunflower oil instead of peanut or sesame oil and omit the peanuts.
- Feel free to use any noodle type you enjoy; the sauce pairs well with many varieties!
- This dish is great for meal prep; make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week!
