Chili Garlic Noodles

Few dishes check all the boxes—quick, satisfying, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor. Chili Garlic Noodles is one of them. I still remember the first time I tasted a similar dish at a late-night street food vendor during a trip abroad. The bold garlic aroma hit first, followed by a fiery yet balanced heat that kept me coming back for more. When I returned home, I knew I had to recreate it, and after dozens of experiments in my own kitchen, this version became a staple in our weekly dinner rotation.

What I love most about these noodles is their versatility. Whether I’m cooking for one, feeding my family, or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this recipe never fails. Over the years, I’ve refined the flavor profile to strike the perfect balance between spice, savoriness, and umami. And because it comes together so quickly, it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when I want something comforting without spending an hour in the kitchen.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make the perfect chili garlic noodles at home, from the essential ingredients to expert cooking tips that ensure every bite is loaded with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Requires simple pantry ingredients
• Bold, spicy, garlicky flavor that satisfies cravings
• Easy to customize with vegetables or protein
• Naturally vegan (with optional non-vegan add-ins)
• Great for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make chili garlic noodles at home. I’ve included substitution tips where possible so you can work with what you have.

Main Ingredients

• Noodles – Use wheat noodles, lo mein, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Rice noodles also work for a gluten-free option.
• Garlic (8–10 cloves) – Fresh garlic is the star here. Don’t be shy. It gives the dish its signature punch.
• Chili flakes or chili oil – Use Asian-style red chili flakes for a traditional taste, or customize the heat level to your preference.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons) – Adds salty umami depth. Use low-sodium if preferred.
• Dark soy sauce (1 tablespoon) – Provides color and a deeper, caramelized flavor. Optional but recommended.
• Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon) – Optional for non-vegan version. Adds sweetness and savory complexity.
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon) – For aroma and depth of flavor.
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons) – Used to sauté the garlic and chili. Neutral oils like canola or avocado oil also work.
• Sugar (½ teaspoon) – Balances the spice and saltiness.
• Scallions or green onions – For garnish and a pop of freshness.

Optional Add-Ins

• Julienned carrots, bell peppers, or bok choy – Add veggies for color and texture.
• Tofu, shrimp, or chicken – For extra protein.
• Crushed peanuts or sesame seeds – For garnish and added crunch.

How to Make Chili Garlic Noodles (Step-by-Step Instructions)

This recipe is all about layering flavors in a simple, smart sequence. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Mince your garlic finely. You want it almost paste-like so it distributes evenly.
• Measure your sauces and have them ready—this dish comes together fast, so prep is key.
• Boil water and cook your noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Chili

• In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
• Add chili flakes or chili oil and stir for another 20–30 seconds. This step infuses the oil and builds the flavor base.

Why this works: Garlic burns quickly, so cooking it gently in oil with chili infuses the oil and creates a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

Step 3: Add Sauces and Seasonings

• Reduce the heat to low. Stir in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and sugar.
• Stir well to combine into a cohesive sauce.

Step 4: Combine with Noodles

• Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.
• Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped scallions or green onions over the top.
• Garnish with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds if desired.
• Serve immediately while hot.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh garlic only – Jarred or pre-minced garlic doesn’t deliver the same depth of flavor.
• Control the heat – Start with 1–2 teaspoons of chili flakes and adjust to your tolerance.
• Don’t overcook the garlic – Once it turns golden, it can quickly become bitter.
• Toss noodles while hot – This helps them absorb the sauce evenly and prevents clumping.
• Add a splash of noodle water – If the noodles look dry, add a tablespoon of reserved cooking water to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some delicious variations:

• Vegetable-loaded version – Stir-fry thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded cabbage before adding the noodles.
• Protein boost – Add sautéed tofu, scrambled egg, cooked shrimp, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• If you want no gluten, go for rice noodles and soy sauce or tamari that are free from gluten.
• Sweet-spicy twist – Add a teaspoon of hoisin sauce or a dash of honey for a more rounded flavor.
• Thai-style flair – Add lime juice and crushed peanuts for a Pad Thai–inspired spin.

Serving Suggestions

Chili garlic noodles are bold enough to stand on their own, but you can easily build a complete meal:

• Serve with: Steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or miso soup.
• Pair with drinks: Green tea, iced jasmine tea, or even a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual lunches, or as a spicy side for an Asian-themed meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Let noodles cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to loosen the noodles.
• You can also microwave them, covered, for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Tip: These noodles taste better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make chili garlic noodles less spicy?
Yes. Start with half the amount of chili flakes and taste as you go. You can put more heat, but you can’t take it back once it’s there.

What type of noodles are good for this dish?
Wheat-based noodles like lo mein, ramen, or even spaghetti work well. Rice noodles are a great gluten-free alternative.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Just skip the oyster sauce or use a vegan substitute like mushroom stir-fry sauce.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but make sure your pan is large enough so the noodles can toss freely and evenly absorb the sauce.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. It stores well and reheats easily, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Approximate Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Chili Garlic Noodles are the kind of recipe that reminds you how simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary results. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish will become a go-to favorite for its bold flavor, ease, and endless adaptability.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Please leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share it with a friend who loves spicy food as much as you do.