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If you’ve ever craved something flavorful, satisfying, and packed with vibrant textures, this Hokkien Noodles with Chicken Recipe will become your new favorite quick dinner. The perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and chewy, slurp-worthy Hokkien noodles tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce makes this dish an absolute delight. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, and best of all, it comes together in a snap without sacrificing any of that authentic, comforting taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your Hokkien Noodles with Chicken Recipe. From the juicy chicken thighs to the crunchy cabbage and the rich seasonings, every item is chosen with care to make your cooking easy and delicious.
- Hokkien noodles (500g/1 lb): These thick, chewy noodles soak up the sauce beautifully for that classic mouthfeel.
- Chicken thighs (350g/12 oz, boneless and skinless): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and juicy tenderness in every bite.
- Canola oil (2 tbsp): A neutral oil that helps everything cook evenly without overpowering flavors.
- Garlic cloves (2, finely minced): Adds a fragrant, savory depth that wakes up the whole dish.
- Green onion stems (8, cut into 5cm lengths): The white parts add sharp, mild onion flavor while the green parts provide fresh garnish.
- Red capsicum (1, thinly sliced): Adds a pop of color and a sweet crunch to contrast tender noodles and chicken.
- Green cabbage (3 heaped cups, thinly sliced): Delivers crunch and freshness, balancing the rich sauces.
- Light soy sauce (2 tbsp): Brings a salty, umami base, essential for authentic flavor.
- Dark soy sauce (1 1/2 tbsp): Adds color and a deeper, slightly sweeter taste.
- Oyster sauce (2 tbsp): Contributes a luxurious, savory richness that ties everything together.
- Mirin or Chinese cooking wine (1 tbsp): Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Toasted sesame oil (1 tbsp): A finishing touch that infuses the noodles with comforting nuttiness.
- White pepper (1/8 tsp): Offers just the right hint of gentle heat without overwhelming.
- White sesame seeds: For garnish, providing a toasty crunch and visual appeal.
- Finely sliced green onion: Adds fresh color and a mild onion bite as a finishing flourish.
How to Make Hokkien Noodles with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing your chicken thighs into thin strips about 0.5 x 3 cm in size, ensuring they cook quickly and evenly. Next, finely mince the garlic and separate the green onion stems into white and green parts, cutting each into roughly 5 cm lengths. Thinly slice your red capsicum and cabbage into long strips for great texture contrast. Having all your ingredients prepped ahead makes the cooking process smooth and fun.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the canola oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions, stirring until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the sliced chicken thighs and cook until they just turn golden and are cooked through, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors right from the start.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the red capsicum strips and cabbage to the cooked chicken. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes so the vegetables retain their crunch while becoming perfectly tender. This quick sauté keeps the dish bright and fresh with a delightful crunchiness that elevates the noodles.
Step 4: Add the Noodles and Sauces
Now it’s time to bring in those glorious Hokkien noodles. Gently separate the noodles if they’re tangled and add them to the wok. Pour in the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and mirin or Chinese cooking wine. Toss everything vigorously to coat the noodles, chicken, and vegetables evenly. The combination of sauces creates a deep, balanced flavor that’s the heart of the Hokkien Noodles with Chicken Recipe.
Step 5: Finish with Sesame Oil and Pepper
Turn off the heat and drizzle toasted sesame oil over the noodles, followed by a sprinkle of white pepper. Toss once more to distribute the fragrant oil and spice through the dish. This finishing step adds a wonderful aroma and a subtle kick that makes this humble dish feel special and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Hokkien Noodles with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your plate, sprinkle white sesame seeds and the chopped green parts of the green onions over your noodles. Not only do these garnishes add a pleasing crunch and fresh bite, but they also give your dish that classic, vibrant look you’ll want to Instagram.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs marvelously with light, refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad or simple stir-fried greens such as bok choy or Chinese broccoli. These provide a cool, green contrast that balances the savory richness of the noodles beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Hokkien noodles in individual lettuce cups or wrap small portions in rice paper for a fresh spring roll experience. Alternatively, plate it alongside a drizzle of chili oil or sriracha for those who love a spicy boost. No matter how you serve it, the dish will shine and impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Hokkien Noodles with Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles might absorb some moisture, so give them a gentle toss or splash a little water or sesame oil before reheating to refresh their texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes reasonably well, although the texture of the vegetables might soften slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, cool the noodles completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for the best flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your noodles gently in a hot skillet or wok with a tiny splash of water or broth to bring back the moisture without drying the dish. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the noodles tough, but if you must, cover the dish to keep steam inside for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine, but thighs remain juicier and provide more richness which complements the noodles perfectly. If using breast, just be careful not to overcook to keep it tender.
What if I can’t find Hokkien noodles?
Thick egg noodles or Chinese wheat noodles can be a good substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since different noodles have varied textures and thicknesses.
Is this dish spicy?
The Hokkien Noodles with Chicken Recipe itself isn’t spicy, but you can easily add chili flakes, fresh chili, or your favorite hot sauce to spice it up according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap chicken for extra vegetables, tofu, or tempeh, and use vegetarian versions of oyster sauce or substitute with mushroom sauce for a similar umami kick.
How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?
After cooking, rinse the noodles briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and toss them lightly with oil to prevent clumping before stir-frying.
Final Thoughts
This Hokkien Noodles with Chicken Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and exciting to eat. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this easy, flavorful dish again and again. Give it a try, and enjoy a little taste of delicious, home-cooked happiness on your plate tonight!
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