Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter, the tender juiciness of chicken, and the perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors—all while keeping things healthy and incredibly delicious! These Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that will transform your weeknight dinner routine from boring to extraordinary. Get ready to impress your family and tantalize your taste buds with a recipe that proves healthy eating can be outrageously delectable!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- While noodles are cooking, prepare the chicken. Season sliced chicken breast with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through with no pink remaining. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add remaining sesame oil and minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water to create a smooth sauce. If too thick, add more pasta water.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables. Pour peanut butter sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Add cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with chopped peanuts and sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy peanut butter chicken noodles!
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a world of difference in flavor intensity.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Aim for golden brown edges and ensure no pink remains to keep the meat tender and juicy.
- Control sauce consistency: Reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce texture. Add gradually to prevent it from becoming too thin.
- Vegetable variation: Feel free to swap mixed vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preference.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes if you want to kick up the heat.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for lunch leftovers.
- For gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and choose gluten-free noodles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
