Spicy Peanut Noodles Recipe (with Chicken Option)

Oh wow, have you ever tried spicy peanut noodles? They are so, so good! I’m telling you, this is one of my favorite easy meals when I want something quick and tasty.

The best part? It’s creamy, nutty, and has just the right kick of spice. And guess what? You only need a few simple things from the kitchen.

When I first made these noodles, I was like, “Whoa! I need to make this all the time!” It’s that good, and it makes you feel like a chef without all the hard work. Trust me, you’ll love how easy and yummy it is!

So, are you ready to make these spicy peanut noodles with me? Let’s do this! Follow along, and I’ll show you every step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of smooth peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a kick of gochujang makes a sauce that’s bold and satisfying.
• Versatile: Easily swap chicken for tofu or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian with just noodles and veggies.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy these noodles all week long. The flavors get even better over time.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh veggies—no complicated ingredients here.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking, from mild to extra spicy.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: About 35 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or meal prep. You can double it for larger portions or a gathering.

Difficulty:
Beginner-friendly. If you can cook noodles and stir sauce, you can make this! It’s an easy way to bring restaurant-quality noodles to your kitchen.

Required Kitchen Tools

Here are the basic tools you’ll need to make these spicy peanut noodles:

• Large Pot: For cooking the noodles.
• Skillet or Wok: For sautéing chicken and vegetables.
• Mixing Bowl: To whisk together the peanut sauce.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: To slice chicken and chop veggies.
• Tongs or Pasta Fork: Helpful for tossing the noodles with the sauce.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise measurements of sauces and seasonings.
• Grater or Microplane: Optional, for grating fresh ginger and garlic if you prefer.

Ingredients for Spicy Peanut Noodles

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

For the Noodles & Chicken:

• Asian Noodles: Udon, soba, or rice noodles work great. Use what you like or have on hand.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Thinly sliced for quick cooking. You can substitute with tofu, shrimp, or leave it out for a vegetarian version.
• Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds nutty flavor and helps cook the chicken.
• Red Bell Pepper: Thinly sliced for crunch and sweetness.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced for a savory base.
• Fresh Ginger: Grated for warmth and depth.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Optional but adds a lovely herbal finish.

For the Peanut Sauce:

• Smooth Peanut Butter: The base of the sauce—creamy and rich.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds savory umami without too much salt.
• Honey: For a touch of sweetness to balance the spice and salt.
• Rice Vinegar: For a bit of tang to brighten the flavors.
• Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): Provides the perfect level of spice and a deep, complex flavor. Adjust to taste.
• Water: To thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Lime Wedges: For serving, to add fresh citrusy brightness.
• Crushed Peanuts (Optional): For garnish, adding extra texture and crunch.

Variations for Spicy Peanut Noodles

• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add tofu or extra veggies like shredded carrots, cucumbers, or edamame.
• Add Extra Heat: Stir in sriracha, chili flakes, or more gochujang if you love it spicy.
• Use Different Protein: Shrimp, beef strips, or rotisserie chicken work well too.
• Swap the Noodles: Use spaghetti or linguine if you don’t have Asian noodles—still delicious!
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter or tahini if you need a peanut-free version.

How to Make Spicy Peanut Noodles (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add your chosen noodles (udon, soba, or rice noodles) and cook according to the package instructions until just tender.
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • ½ cup smooth peanut butter
   • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
   • 1 tablespoon honey
   • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
   • 1 tablespoon gochujang (adjust for spice level)
   • ¼ cup warm water (start with less and add as needed for consistency)
2. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken (Optional)

1. Heat 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced chicken breast (if using) and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another ½ tablespoon sesame oil (if needed).
2. Add 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger.
3. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly softened.

5. Toss Everything Together

1. Reduce heat to low. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet.
2. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles. Toss well to evenly coat everything.
3. Add back the cooked chicken (if using) and mix to combine.
4. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, just to warm everything through.

How to Serve Spicy Peanut Noodles

These noodles are versatile and can be served in different ways:

• Warm or Cold: Enjoy them fresh off the stove or let them cool and serve as a chilled noodle salad.
• As a Side or Main Dish: Serve as a main meal or pair with other Asian-inspired dishes.
• With Garnishes:
  • Fresh basil leaves for a herby touch.
  • Lime wedges for a burst of acidity.
  • Crushed peanuts for extra crunch.
  • Extra gochujang or chili flakes for spice lovers.

Storing Spicy Peanut Noodles

These noodles store really well, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to handle them for best results:

• Refrigerator:
  Store the noodles in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating:
  Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent drying out.
• Serving Cold:
  These noodles can be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge, like a noodle salad—perfect for hot days or lunchboxes.

Meal Prep Tips

• Make-Ahead Peanut Sauce:
  You can mix the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it thickens, just stir in a bit of warm water before using.
• Prep Chicken and Veggies Ahead:
  Slice your chicken and chop veggies, then store them in separate containers in the fridge. This way, you can cook the noodles fresh in just minutes.
• Batch Cooking:
  Double the recipe and divide it into meal prep containers for ready-to-go lunches.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Thin Out the Sauce if Needed:
  The peanut sauce can thicken as it sits. Add a little warm water or broth while tossing with the noodles if needed.
• Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic:
  Fresh aromatics give the sauce a brighter, deeper flavor compared to powdered versions.
• Control the Spice Level:
  Start with less gochujang if you’re sensitive to heat, then add more to taste. You can also serve extra on the side.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles:
  Cook them until just tender to avoid mushy noodles when mixed with sauce.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Shortcut:
  If short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken makes a great substitute for cooked chicken breast.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	480
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fiber	4g
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	4g
Sugar	9g
Sodium	720mg

Note: Nutrition will vary based on the type of noodles and whether chicken is use

Spicy Peanut Noodles FAQs

Can I make these noodles vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just leave out the chicken and add more veggies like shredded carrots, cucumbers, or edamame.

What can I use instead of gochujang?

If you don’t have gochujang, you can substitute sriracha or red chili paste. Adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes. You can use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version.

How long do these noodles last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to 4 days.

Can I use other noodles?

Definitely. Spaghetti or linguine work as an easy swap if you don’t have Asian noodles.

Conclusion

These Spicy Peanut Noodles are a simple, satisfying dish that brings together creamy, savory, and spicy flavors in one bowl. Whether you’re making them for dinner or meal prep, they’re easy to adapt and always delicious. Add chicken, tofu, or extra veggies to make it your own. Serve it warm for cozy comfort or chilled for a refreshing meal—either way, these noodles are sure to become a favorite.