If you love bold, vibrant flavors, these Chili Garlic Noodles are about to become your new obsession. This dish brings together chewy noodles, a rich garlic-infused sauce, and just the right amount of heat from chili flakes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving takeout. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone dish or pair them with your favorite protein, these noodles are guaranteed to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, with simple ingredients.
- Customize the Heat: Easily adjust the spice level to match your taste.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a main dish or side with veggies or protein.
- Better Than Takeout: Fresh, homemade flavors with no added preservatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz noodles (like spaghetti, lo mein, or rice noodles)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Optional Additions:
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, bok choy, or mushrooms.
- Protein: Chicken thighs (your favorite!), tofu, or shrimp.
- Vinegar or Lime Juice: For a touch of acidity.
- Honey or Sugar: A hint of sweetness to balance the spice.
How to Make Chili Garlic Noodles
- Cook the Noodles: Boil according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic-Chili Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant. Add chili flakes and stir for 30 seconds.
- Make the Sauce: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Combine Everything: Toss the cooked noodles in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Add Extras (Optional): Toss in your favorite veggies or protein.
- Garnish & Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame
Tips for the Best Chili Garlic Noodles
- Fresh Garlic is Key: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Control the Spice: Start with less chili and add more if needed.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep them al dente to avoid mushy texture.
What to Serve with Chili Garlic Noodles
- Grilled Chicken Thighs (juicy and flavorful!)
- Steamed Vegetables for balance.
- Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I make this gluten-free? A: Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for easy reheating.
How spicy are these noodles? A: The spice level is customizable — use more or less chili flakes to suit your preference.
Can I make chili garlic noodles vegetarian?: Yes! You can easily make chili garlic noodles vegetarian by omitting any meat (like chicken or shrimp) and replacing it with tofu or extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan with a splash of water or oil to revive the texture.
Variations
- Peanut Butter Noodles: Add a spoonful of peanut butter for creaminess.
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a dash of honey or brown sugar.
- Extra Veggies: Load up with broccoli, snap peas, or spinach.
Conclusion
These Chili Garlic Noodles are a game changer for spice lovers and noodle enthusiasts alike. They’re fast, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Plus, making them at home means you get to control the ingredients and tailor the dish to your exact liking. So, the next time you’re craving something spicy and satisfying, skip the takeout and try this recipe instead — your taste buds will thank you
Chili Garlic Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 oz noodles like spaghetti, lo mein, or rice noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1-2 tbsp chili garlic sauce adjust to spice preference
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp green onions chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds optional, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes optional, for extra spice
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic-Chili Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant. Add chili flakes and stir for 30 seconds.
- Make the Sauce: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Combine Everything: Toss the cooked noodles in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Add Extras (Optional): Toss in your favorite veggies or protein.
- Garnish & Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame
Notes
- Noodle Choices: Any type of noodle works, but lo mein or rice noodles will give the most authentic flavor and texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to your desired spice level. If you want a milder version, reduce the sauce and add a little more soy sauce for flavor.
- Add-ins: Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish.
- Make it Vegan: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and skip the sesame oil if you want to keep it plant-based.