Craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that supports your Healthy Chicken Meal Prep goals? These Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodles deliver on taste and nutrition, making your meal prep exciting. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or packed lunches, offering a delicious and easy way to stay on track.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breast: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Noodles: Any stir-fry noodle, whole wheat spaghetti, or even zoodles work well.
- Peanut Butter: Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter. Almond butter is a great alternative.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap bell peppers and carrots for broccoli, snap peas, or cabbage.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz whole wheat noodles or your favorite stir-fry noodles
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup warm water (or more, for desired consistency)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped cilantro
- Crushed peanuts
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories (varies based on specific ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, large pot for noodles, mixing bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Noodles
Cook your noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set them aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, shredded carrots, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain some crunch.
4. Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce
While the vegetables are cooking, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and sriracha in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth. Gradually add the warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until your sauce reaches a creamy, pourable consistency.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and noodles back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture. Toss everything together until the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated in the delicious sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Divide your Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodles among four plates or meal prep containers. Garnish with fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, and a squeeze of lime juice if you like.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of spinach or kale to wilt into the dish at the very end.
- Introduce more heat with extra sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For a vegetarian Healthy Chicken Meal Prep option, swap chicken for tofu or edamame.
- Incorporate different textures with water chestnuts or bamboo shoots.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodles in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are perfect for Healthy Chicken Meal Prep. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your noodles are gluten-free (like rice noodles).
Q: How can you make this spicier?
A: Add more sriracha to the sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the vegetables.
Q: Can you prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can whisk the sauce together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What if you don’t have rice vinegar?
A: Apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: Is this recipe good for cold leftovers?
A: Yes, these noodles are delicious served chilled or at room temperature, making them ideal for packed lunches as part of your Healthy Chicken Meal Prep.
Q: Can you add more vegetables?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add broccoli florets, snap peas, or sliced mushrooms with the bell peppers and carrots.