A quick, savory meal that clings to every noodle — perfect for busy weeknights when you want bold flavor with minimal fuss.
introduction
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles are a sweet-savory, garlicky stir-fry that comes together fast and satisfies deeply. The glossy honey-soy sauce coats tender, lightly crisped chicken and soft noodles for a comforting bowl that feeds a crowd or makes excellent leftovers. If you enjoy garlic-forward chicken dishes with easy assembly, try this alongside a lighter option like cheesy garlic chicken wraps for meal rotation ideas.
why make this recipe
- Fast to prepare: a simple sauce and a quick pan fry mean dinner in 30 minutes.
- Crowd-pleasing flavors: sweet honey, salty soy, punchy garlic, and a little heat if you like.
- Flexible: works with chicken breast or thighs and with rice or egg noodles.
- Great for leftovers: flavors deepen overnight, making this ideal for prepared meals.
how to make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
This recipe is built on a few straightforward steps: make the sauce, coat the chicken in cornstarch, sear until golden, simmer the sauce until sticky, then toss with cooked noodles. The cornstarch creates a light crust on the chicken so the sauce clings beautifully.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Directions :
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes (if using) thoroughly to form a flavorful sauce.
- Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated. This will help create a sticky, crispy texture when cooked.
- Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to get it hot enough for frying the chicken.
- Add the coated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken and stir well to coat all pieces. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens and becomes sticky.
- Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to the package instructions until tender. Drain and set them aside.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sticky chicken and toss well to evenly distribute the sauce and chicken throughout.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using) over the top for a fresh finish and extra flavor before serving hot.
how to serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Serve hot straight from the pan. Pair with a simple cucumber salad or steamed greens to cut the richness. Garnish with extra sliced green onions, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Serve family-style so everyone can add extras to taste.
how to store Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave covered in short intervals, stirring between cycles. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
tips to make Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Pat the chicken dry before coating with cornstarch for the best crisp.
- Use high heat when searing to develop color quickly without overcooking.
- If the sauce gets too thick, thin with a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth.
- Taste the sauce before adding to the chicken and adjust honey or soy to balance sweetness and saltiness.
- For extra gloss, finish with a teaspoon of butter melted into the sauce just before tossing with noodles.
variation (if any)
- Spice it up: increase red chili flakes or add a splash of sriracha.
- Vegetarian swap: use firm tofu, pressed and cubed, tossed in cornstarch and pan-fried the same way.
- Veggie boost: toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots when adding noodles for color and crunch.
- Noodle choices: try egg noodles, udon, or rice vermicelli depending on texture preference.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes—use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your noodles are gluten-free (rice noodles are a good choice).
Q: Will the chicken stay crispy after tossing with the sauce?
A: The cornstarch gives a slight crisp, but once sauced the exterior will become sticky rather than crunchy. To retain more texture, serve immediately and avoid over-saucing.
Q: Can I prep any components ahead?
A: You can mix the sauce and cut the chicken in advance; coat the chicken just before cooking. Cooked noodles can be chilled but may stick—toss with a little oil to prevent clumping.
Conclusion
For a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner with glossy, clingy sauce and tender chicken, this Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles recipe delivers. For another garlic-forward noodle variation and inspiration on timing, see the 20 minute Crispy Garlic Chicken Noodles.
Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes thoroughly to form a flavorful sauce.
- Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated.
- Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thick and sticky.
- Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the chicken and toss well to mix.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top before serving hot.




