Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles

Name: Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 8 oz noodles (rice or egg noodles); 1 cup snap peas; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; 3 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Global Cooking

I've been experimenting with Asian-inspired dishes lately, and this Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich sesame ginger dressing creates a delightful harmony of flavors that's both satisfying and healthy. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Trust me, once you try this dish, you'll want to make it a regular part of your dinner rotation.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:13:35.729Z

When I first made these Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful they were. I had some leftover chicken and decided to whip something up with a few pantry staples. The key is to let the chicken marinate in the sesame ginger dressing for at least 10 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.

During the cooking process, I found that incorporating colorful vegetables not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a lovely crunch. I used bell peppers and snap peas, but feel free to swap in your favorites. The vibrant colors and fresh textures really elevate this meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold and aromatic sesame ginger flavors that excite your palate
Quick cooking time without sacrificing quality
A healthy balance of protein and vegetables in each bite

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is the heart of this dish, infusing the chicken with a rich, savory flavor profile that truly enhances the overall dish. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes is essential; this time frame lets the sesame oil and ginger penetrate the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful bite. For an extra kick, consider adding chili flakes to the marinade for some heat, or substitute maple syrup for honey to make it vegan-friendly.

When mixing the marinade, ensure all ingredients are well combined. A whisk works well to blend the honey evenly into the liquids, preventing it from clumping. If you have time, marinating the chicken for an hour or more in the refrigerator can deepen the flavors significantly. Just be aware that beyond two hours, the chicken might become too tender, affecting the texture.

Choosing the Right Noodles

Selecting the right type of noodles is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles. Rice noodles provide a light, chewy quality, while egg noodles offer a heartier bite. If you're gluten sensitive, look for gluten-free rice noodles, and remember to soak them according to package instructions for the best results. Cooking them until just al dente will prevent them from becoming mushy when combined with the chicken and vegetables.

When draining the noodles, a quick rinse under cold water can help stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider tossing the rinsed noodles with a drizzle of sesame oil to keep them from clumping together before combining them with the stir-fried ingredients.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, a splash of additional soy sauce or sesame oil can revive the flavors that might have dulled. Microwave in short intervals (30 seconds at a time) to ensure even warming, or use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to create steam and keep the noodles from drying out.

For a burst of freshness, serve your Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and additional green onions on top. You could also add a side of pickled cucumbers or a small salad to lighten the meal further. This dish is incredibly versatile; try substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles:

For the Chicken and Noodles

2 chicken breasts, sliced
8 oz noodles (rice or egg noodles)
1 cup snap peas
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 green onions, chopped

For the Sesame Ginger Dressing

3 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic, minced

Make sure everything is ready before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal:

Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine sliced chicken with sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Noodles

Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, stir-fry the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the snap peas and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender yet crisp.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed and heated through. Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Sesame Ginger Chicken Noodles!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, top with toasted sesame seeds before serving. You can also customize the recipe with your choice of vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken isn't browning as desired, ensure your skillet is properly preheated before adding the chicken. Cooking at a too-low temperature can lead to steaming rather than searing, which prevents that desirable golden finish. Adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil can also help achieve a better caramelization, enhancing the overall flavor.

Should you find the dish overly salty, this can sometimes occur depending on the soy sauce brand. Incorporating a squeeze of lime juice or an extra dash of honey can help balance out the saltiness. On the other hand, if there's not enough flavor, consider increasing the amount of ginger or adding a dash more of soy sauce during the final mixing stage.

Variations for Your Taste

Feel free to customize this dish based on your vegetable preferences or seasonal availability. Carrots, broccoli, or baby corn work wonderfully, providing both color and crunch. Just ensure that you sauté vegetables that require longer cooking times first, adding quicker-cooking ones like snap peas halfway through the stir-fry to keep them vibrant and crisp.

You might also experiment with different herbs and garnishes. Fresh cilantro or mint can introduce an inviting aroma, while crushed peanuts or cashews sprinkled on top add delightful texture and healthy fats. This adaptability allows you to enjoy the dish repeatedly without it becoming monotonous.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu, shrimp, or any other protein of your choice.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.