Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, look no further than this Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles. It’s a vibrant dish bursting with fresh flavors and textures, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and the delightful chewiness of rice noodles creates a harmonious balance that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why This Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles Stands Out
This Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles is not just another dinner recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and a showcase of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The hoisin sauce adds a touch of sweetness, while the fish sauce and soy sauce provide depth and umami. The fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables elevate the dish, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, meaning you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What to Buy
When shopping for this recipe, here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:
- Rice Noodles: 1/2 pound, thin rice noodles are preferred for their light texture.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Chicken Breasts: 2-3 boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for flavor.
- Hoisin Sauce: 1/4 cup, adds sweetness and richness.
- Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon, brings umami and depth.
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon, for seasoning.
- Lime Juice: Juice of 1/2 lime, for a fresh zing.
- Persian Cucumber: 1, chopped or julienned for crunch.
- Mint: 1 handful, chopped for freshness.
- Carrot: 1 small, grated, spiralized, or julienned for color and sweetness.
- Scallions: Chopped green parts, to taste for garnish.
- Peanuts: 1/4 cup, chopped for crunch.
- Red Pepper Flakes: To taste, for a bit of heat.
- Lime Wedges: For serving, to add extra zest when desired.
Cook’s Kit
Here are a few tools that will make your cooking experience smoother:
- Large Skillet or Wok: Essential for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Cutting Board: For preparing your ingredients.
- Sharp Knife: To easily slice chicken and vegetables.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out sauces and oils accurately.
- Colander: For draining the rice noodles after cooking.
Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles
Begin by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking them in hot water for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat to medium and stir in the hoisin sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables
Add the chopped Persian cucumber, grated carrot, and herbs to the chicken mixture. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked rice noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are coated in the sauce and mixed well with the chicken and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions, peanuts, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve your Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles hot, with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Season-by-Season Upgrades
This Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles is versatile and can be adjusted according to what’s in season:
- Spring: Add snap peas and asparagus for a fresh crunch.
- Summer: Incorporate bell peppers and zucchini for a colorful mix.
- Fall: Include sliced mushrooms and bok choy for earthiness.
- Winter: Use broccoli and cauliflower for a heartier dish.
Troubles You Can Avoid
To help you achieve the best results with your Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles, here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the Noodles: Make sure to follow the package instructions closely; you want them tender but not mushy.
- Using Too Much Sauce: Balance is key; start with less and add more to taste.
- Not Prepping Ingredients: Have everything chopped and ready before you start cooking to keep the stir fry fast and efficient.
- Cooking on Low Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat for proper searing and flavor development.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you’d like to make this Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles easier to prepare, consider these tips for prepping ahead:
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken with the sauces and lime juice a few hours in advance or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Chop Vegetables: Prepare all vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator to save time.
- Cook Noodles Ahead: You can cook the noodles in advance, just be sure to toss them in a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the noodles soft.
Ask the Chef
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef, adjusting the cooking time as necessary to ensure everything is cooked through.
What if I can’t find hoisin sauce?
If hoisin sauce isn’t available, you can make a simple substitute by mixing peanut butter with soy sauce, a splash of vinegar, and a little sugar for sweetness.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of fish sauce for an equally delicious vegetarian version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or include sliced fresh chilies to the stir-fry. You can also serve it with a side of chili sauce.
Bring It Home
This Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The melding of flavors, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the satisfying noodles create a dish that’s both comforting and invigorating. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It’s quick and easy, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a delightful culinary adventure that brings the flavors of the world into your home. Enjoy every bite!
Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles - Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, usually soaking in hot water for 10-15 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken - In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Add garlic in the last minute of cooking.
- Step 3: Add the Sauce - Lower the heat to medium and stir in hoisin sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Mix until chicken is coated.
- Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables - Add cucumber, carrot, and herbs to the chicken mixture. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Step 5: Combine with Noodles - Add cooked rice noodles and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve - Remove from heat and garnish with scallions, peanuts, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot with lime wedges.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken ahead of time for more flavor.
- Chop all vegetables in advance to save time.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
