Spicy Whole Wheat Sesame Noodles with Chicken
Try this Spicy Whole Wheat Sesame Noodles with Chicken recipe.
Try this Spicy Whole Wheat Sesame Noodles with Chicken recipe.
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 t asian sesame oil
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken
- 1 cup sliced green onions
- 8 oz. whole wheat spaghetti (1/2 package)
- salt for pasta water about 2 tsp.
- 3 t rice vinegar (don’t use seasoned rice vinegar whic
- 2 1/2 t soy sauce
- 2 t vegetable oil (i used canola)
- 1 tâ thai chili garlic pasteâ (you could also useâ srir use more or less hot sauce to taste)
- 1 t grated fresh ginger root (could also use ground gi but freshly grated ginger would be more flavorful)
- Carbohydrate 2.7036 g
- Cholesterol 31.15 mg
- Fat 2.62485 g
- Fiber 0.50275001347065 g
- Protein 10.4524 g
- Saturated Fat 0.726145 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (64g)
- Sodium 31.48 mg
- Sugar 2.20084998652935 g
- Trans Fat 0.366005 g
- Calories 78 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, then break spaghetti noodles in half and add to water.
- Stir, let it come to a boil again, then cook until noodles are tender but still have a little bite, about 8-9 minutes.
- While pasta water is coming to a boil, grate enough fresh ginger to make 1 T, then combine with rice vinegar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, Thai Chili Garlic Paste (you could also use Sriracha sauce, use more or less hot sauce to taste), and sesame oil.
- While the noodles are cooking, chop the chicken into same-size pieces about 1/2 inch square, and slice green onions.
- Wash cilantro, spin dry or dry with paper towels, and chop enough to make 1/2 cup.
- When noodles are cooked but still al dente, drain them into a colander placed in the sink.
- Put noodles back into pan you cooked them in and add the diced chicken.
- Pour sauce mixture over chicken and noodles, then toss well enough that noodles and chicken are well-coated with the sauce mixture.
- Add chopped green onions and chopped cilantro and toss just enough to combine.
- Serve immediately.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Spicy Whole Wheat Sesame Noodles with Chicken
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. I need recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying, and this Spicy Whole Wheat Sesame Noodles with Chicken recipe has become a true lifesaver. It’s packed with flavor, satisfyingly hearty, and comes together in under 30 minutes – perfect for those evenings when I'm juggling work emails, homework help, and everything else life throws my way. I love that it’s flexible too; I can easily adapt it to whatever protein I have on hand or swap out ingredients based on what's in my fridge.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The sauce is the star, a vibrant blend of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of fiery Thai chili garlic paste (or sriracha, if that's what you prefer). The kick of spice is balanced beautifully by the nutty sesame oil and the subtle sweetness of the rice vinegar. The whole wheat noodles add a nice hearty texture, and the addition of fresh cilantro and green onions brightens the flavors and adds a lovely freshness. The chicken is a great source of protein, making this a complete and nourishing meal. But honestly, you could easily swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even just leave it out for a vegetarian option. The versatility of this recipe is what makes it so appealing.
Beyond the Weeknight Rush: This recipe is also surprisingly adaptable for different occasions. A slightly fancier version, perhaps with grilled chicken and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, would be perfect for a casual dinner party. I’ve even been known to pack leftovers in my lunch the next day – the flavors only get better! The satisfying chewiness of the whole wheat noodles means it’s just as delicious cold as it is hot. It’s incredibly versatile and makes for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal, without sacrificing any flavor or nutrition.
Tips and Tricks for Success: To really elevate this dish, I find that using freshly grated ginger makes all the difference. It has a much brighter, more pronounced flavor compared to ground ginger. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with the level of spiciness. Start with a small amount of chili garlic paste and add more to your taste. If you prefer a less intense heat, you can always omit it altogether or use a milder chili sauce. The same goes for the soy sauce; if you're watching your sodium intake, you could reduce the amount or use a low-sodium alternative.
Another great tip is to cook your chicken ahead of time. I often cook a large batch of chicken on the weekend and store it in the fridge for quick weeknight meals. This saves valuable time during the week, making it even faster to prepare this dish. Prepping the other ingredients also helps speed up the cooking process; I often chop the cilantro and green onions while the water for the noodles is boiling.
This Spicy Whole Wheat Sesame Noodles with Chicken recipe has quickly become a staple in my home. It's a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can create a truly satisfying and flavorful dinner that the whole family will love. Try it tonight and see for yourself!
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms.
- Shrimp Noodles: Substitute cooked shrimp for the chicken.
- Spicy Peanut Noodles: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a richer, nuttier flavor.
- Add some crunch: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts would be a great addition to add some texture.
Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! I’d love to hear about any modifications you make or other dishes you enjoy. Happy cooking!
