Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Mongolian Chicken Noodles are a perfect fit! This dish blends tender chicken, colorful veggies, and savory sauces over soft noodles. In this post, I’ll show you how to whip up this flavorful dish with simple steps you can easily follow. Let’s dive in and make dinner exciting and easy tonight!
Ingredients
Chicken
For this dish, you need 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Slice them thinly. Thin slices cook fast and soak up flavors well.
Vegetables
Gather these fresh vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 4 green onions, chopped
These colorful veggies add crunch and nutrition. They also bring a sweet and fresh taste to the noodles.
Sauces and Seasonings
The sauces are key to flavor. You will need:
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
These sauces create a rich, savory base. Adjust the salt and pepper to fit your taste.
Noodles
Use 200g of egg noodles. These noodles are soft and soak up the sauce nicely. Cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
With these simple ingredients, you can make a tasty Mongolian chicken noodle dish that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Noodles
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add 200g of egg noodles to the pot. Cook them as per the package instructions. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. Make sure they are not too sticky.
Preparing the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them thinly. Add the chicken to the hot skillet. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir the chicken often until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink inside.
Adding Vegetables
Once the chicken is ready, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds, until they smell great. Now, toss in 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 sliced green bell pepper, and 1 cup of broccoli florets. Stir-fry everything together for another 3 to 5 minutes. You want the veggies to stay a bit crunchy.
Incorporating the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (if you want extra flavor), 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for a minute to blend the flavors.
Combining Noodles with Chicken and Vegetables
Now, add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. If needed, season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add 4 chopped green onions right before serving. This adds a fresh touch to your dish. Enjoy your Mongolian Chicken Noodles warm!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfect Chicken Texture
To get tender chicken, slice the breasts thinly. This helps them cook fast and evenly. Use medium-high heat for a nice sear. Cook until the chicken is browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you overcook it, the chicken can become dry. So, watch it closely!
Best Practices for Vegetable Crispness
For crisp veggies, add them later in the cooking process. Stir-fry them for just 3-5 minutes. This keeps them tender-crisp. The colors should be bright and vibrant. I recommend using fresh bell peppers and broccoli. They add great taste and texture.
Flavor Enhancements and Pairing Suggestions
To boost flavor, consider adding oyster sauce. It adds a rich taste that blends well. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. Pair your dish with a side of pickled vegetables. They add a tangy contrast that makes each bite exciting!
Variations
Vegetarian Version
You can make a tasty vegetarian version of Mongolian chicken noodles. Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh. Tofu soaks up flavors well. Cut it into small cubes, then sauté until golden. Use the same veggies: bell peppers, broccoli, and green onions. Ensure the sauce is still rich and flavorful. This version is just as satisfying!
Spicy Mongolian Chicken Noodles
If you love heat, try spicy Mongolian chicken noodles. Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños with the veggies. This adds a nice kick. Adjust the heat to your taste. Just a bit can make your meal exciting!
Using Different Protein Options
You are not limited to chicken. Use beef, shrimp, or pork instead. Thinly slice beef and cook it until tender. For shrimp, just sauté until they turn pink. Pork works well too; use thin cuts for quick cooking. Each protein brings its own unique flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your Mongolian chicken noodles, first let them cool down. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Store the container in the fridge. Your meal will last 3 to 4 days.
Reheating Guide
When you want to eat leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Use a microwave for quick heating. Place the noodles in a bowl and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also use a skillet. Heat on medium until warmed through. Add a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor!
Freezing Tips
If you want to keep your Mongolian chicken noodles longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, pack the noodles into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned earlier for the best taste.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook egg noodles?
To cook egg noodles, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Cook the noodles for about 5-7 minutes. Stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste them to check if they’re tender. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water. This keeps them from getting mushy.
Can I substitute the chicken for tofu?
Yes, you can use tofu instead of chicken. Tofu is a great plant-based protein. It absorbs flavors well. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for best results. Cut the tofu into cubes and sauté it until golden. Follow the same steps as with chicken.
Is Mongolian Chicken Noodles a spicy dish?
Mongolian Chicken Noodles are not spicy. The flavors come from soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. You can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat. Adjusting spice levels makes the dish fit your taste.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave until hot. You can also freeze leftovers for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
This post covered the key ingredients, steps, and tips for making delicious Mongolian chicken noodles. You learned how to cook noodles, prepare the chicken, and add fresh veggies for the best taste. Remember, you can switch ingredients to suit your taste. Try the vegetarian or spicy versions for fun twists. Store leftovers well to enjoy your dish later. Use these tips for great results each time. Enjoy your cooking journey!
