Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself craving something with a kick—something that could awaken my taste buds and make my kitchen feel like the vibrant streets of Thailand. Enter Spicy Drunken Noodles with Chicken, a quick, spicy Thai stir-fry that not only revitalizes your weeknight dinners but does so in just 25 minutes! This dish combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic basil, all enveloped in a savory sauce that dances between spicy and umami. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also offers an easy way to infuse a bit of excitement into your culinary routine without the fuss. What’s your favorite ingredient to spice things up in your kitchen? Why are Spicy Drunken Noodles a must-try? Quick Preparation: Ready in just 25 minutes, these noodles fit perfectly into any busy weeknight routine. Bold Flavors: A delightful blend of spicy Thai chilies and savory sauces ensures each bite packs a punch. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, making this dish adaptable to your preferences! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for sharing, these noodles are sure to impress family and friends—just like my Spicy Shrimp Sushi or Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls. Texture Harmony: Enjoy a satisfying contrast of chewy noodles, tender chicken, and crisp veggies, all complemented by fresh basil’s aromatic touch. Spicy Drunken Noodles Ingredients • Dive into the vibrant flavors of Spicy Drunken Noodles with this essential ingredient list! For the Noodles Wide Rice Noodles – The base of this dish providing a delightful chewy texture; substitute with thin egg noodles if desired. For the Protein Chicken Breast – Diced for quick cooking and juicy flavor; swap with tofu for a vegetarian version. For the Sauces Soy Sauce – Adds a savory umami kick; choose low-sodium for a healthier option. Oyster Sauce – Brings a rich depth; consider mushroom sauce as a vegetarian replacement. For the Heat Thai Chilies – Imparts the spicy essence of this dish; adjust to your preference or replace with red pepper flakes. For the Aromatics Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor significantly; garlic powder works in a pinch. For the Vegetables Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Broccoli) – Provide crunch and color; feel free to use seasonal veggies as alternatives. For the Finishing Touch Basil Leaves – Add a fresh aroma that lifts the dish; Thai basil is preferable, but sweet basil works well too. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Drunken Noodles Step 1: Prepare the Noodles Begin by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the wide rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, generally about 8-10 minutes, until tender yet chewy. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside while you prepare the rest of the Spicy Drunken Noodles. Step 2: Heat the Wok In a large wok or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it is hot enough for frying. Swirl the oil around the pan to ensure even coverage. A well-heated wok is crucial for achieving the perfect stir-fry texture, so keep an eye on the oil as you move to the next step. Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken Add minced garlic to the hot wok, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately add the diced chicken breast, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and turns golden brown. The key here is to ensure the chicken is juicy and tender, making it a delicious star in your Spicy Drunken Noodles. Step 4: Add Vegetables Toss in your chopped bell peppers and broccoli, continuing to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Aim for vegetables that are tender-crisp, showcasing vibrant colors and maintaining a delightful crunch. This balance of textures will enhance your plate of Spicy Drunken Noodles, providing a pleasing bite each time. Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauces With the chicken and vegetables cooked, add the drained rice noodles to the wok. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chopped Thai chilies, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and keep stirring to prevent sticking. Step 6: Final Stir-Fry Increase the heat to high for an additional 2 minutes of stir-frying. This step helps the noodles achieve a slight char while ensuring all ingredients are coupled together and heated thoroughly. Look for the noodles to develop a beautiful sheen while being enveloped in the flavorful sauce. Step 7: Add Fresh Basil Finally, remove the wok from heat and fold in the fresh basil leaves. Stir until the basil wilts slightly, which should take about 30 seconds. The vibrant aroma will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting ambiance while you prepare to serve your delicious Spicy Drunken Noodles. Spicy Drunken Noodles Variations Feel free to customize your Spicy Drunken Noodles to suit your taste! Here are some delightful twists to enhance your dish. Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a quick, delicious protein change that adds a lovely seafood charm. Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu, stir-fried until golden for a nutritious, plant-based alternative that packs flavor and texture. Extra Crunch: Toss in cashews or peanuts for a delightful crunchy texture that upgrades your dish to a new level of deliciousness. Sweet Touch: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy contrast against the spice, making each bite a burst of flavor. Heat Up: Increase spicy notes by adding a dash of Sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who crave an extra kick. Colorful Medley: Use a variety of seasonal vegetables like zucchini or snap peas to create a vibrant and healthful dish with every bite. Citrusy Brightness: A squeeze of lime juice added just before serving can brighten the flavors and elevate your Spicy Drunken Noodles. Flavor Infusion: Try incorporating a splash of coconut milk for a creamy yet spicy twist reminiscent of traditional Thai curries. For more culinary inspiration, check out my Slow Cooker Beef Noodles for a comforting alternative or give my Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls a try for a savory, marinated delight! How to Store and Freeze Spicy Drunken Noodles Fridge: Store leftover Spicy Drunken Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, place the noodles in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, warm the noodles on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Alternatively, use a microwave, covered, in short intervals until heated through. Airtight Recommendation: Ensure any storage containers are airtight to keep the noodles flavorful and prevent freezer burn. What to Serve with Spicy Drunken Noodles Transform your Spicy Drunken Noodles into a complete meal experience with these delightful pairings that will awaken your taste buds. Crispy Spring Rolls: These bite-sized delights add a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the tender noodles. Their light fill contrasts well with the spicy stir-fry, creating a joyful dining experience. Thai Mango Salad: Fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet, mango salad brightens the palate. The vibrant flavors and crisp textures of the salad cleanse and enhance the overall meal. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice provides a luscious background that balances the heat from the noodles. This comforting side offers a delightful contrast to the spicy kick, making it an excellent choice. Pineapple Fried Rice: A fragrant dish that combines sweet and savory, pineapple fried rice offers a tropical twist that complements the flavors in your Spicy Drunken Noodles. The combination of textures adds a feast for the senses. Thai Iced Tea: This sweet and creamy beverage cools the spice while infusing your meal with its characteristic robust flavor. The perfect companion for a delicious Thai dinner! Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert that serves as a palate cleanser after enjoying your Spicy Drunken Noodles. The citrus notes offer a refreshing finish to your flavorful feast. Szechuan-style Broccoli: Slightly spicy, this sautéed dish aligns beautifully with the flavors of your noodles. The added crunch from the broccoli provides a lovely bite while amplifying your meal’s vibrant nature. Sesame Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in a savory sesame sauce elevate the dinner experience. Their nuttiness complements the bold flavors of the noodles, while adding another layer of texture and flavor. Chili Garlic Edamame: These seasoned pods add a sensational kick and protein boost. Their easy enjoyment as a finger food makes them a perfect appetizer before your spicy feast begins. Make Ahead Options Spicy Drunken Noodles are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the wide rice noodles and the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers to maintain their texture and prevent stickiness. Additionally, prepare your vegetables and sauces a day ahead to streamline the cooking process. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply reheat the chicken and noodles in a wok, add the prepped vegetables and sauces, and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes. This method ensures you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in no time, making weeknight dinners easier than ever! Expert Tips for Spicy Drunken Noodles Watch the Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender; perfectitude lies in quick, high-heat stir-frying. Noodle Texture: Ensure your rice noodles are not overcooked; they should be chewy but not mushy to maintain the dish’s integrity. Adjust the Spice: Tailor the heat of your Spicy Drunken Noodles by adjusting the amount of Thai chilies based on your personal preference. High Heat is Key: Use high heat for that delicious char on your noodles; this brings out the flavor and adds a delightful texture. Fresh Basil Bliss: Add basil just before serving to retain its vibrant flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall experience of your dish. Spicy Drunken Noodles with Chicken Recipe FAQs What kind of noodles should I use for Spicy Drunken Noodles? I highly recommend using wide rice noodles as they offer a delightful chewy texture that complements the dish. If rice noodles are not available, you can substitute them with thin egg noodles or even whole wheat noodles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times according to the package instructions! How should I store leftover Spicy Drunken Noodles? To keep your delicious creation fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can savor the vibrant flavors even after the initial meal! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to loosen the noodles if needed. Can I freeze Spicy Drunken Noodles? Absolutely! If you want to freeze your Spicy Drunken Noodles, place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s airtight to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. To reheat, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them up on the stove, adding a tiny bit of water if they seem dry. What if my noodles stick together when I reheat them? No worries! If your noodles have clumped together after being chilled or frozen, add a splash of water during reheating—whether on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir them frequently while heating to help separate the noodles and create a deliciously cohesive dish once again! Are there any allergens I should be aware of? Some common allergens in Spicy Drunken Noodles include soy (from soy sauce and oyster sauce) and shellfish (if using certain oyster sauces). If you’re cooking for someone with food allergies, you may want to use low-sodium soy sauce and consider mushroom sauce as an alternative to oyster sauce. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs. Spicy Drunken Noodles: A Flavorful Thai Stir-Fry Adventure Experience the vibrant flavors of Spicy Drunken Noodles, a quick and savory Thai stir-fry that awakens your taste buds. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ThaiCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Noodles8 oz Wide Rice Noodles Substitute with thin egg noodles if desired.For the Protein1 lb Chicken Breast Diced for quick cooking.For the Sauces3 tbsp Soy Sauce Choose low-sodium for a healthier option.2 tbsp Oyster Sauce Consider mushroom sauce as a vegetarian replacement.For the Heat3 pcs Thai Chilies Adjust to your preference.For the Aromatics3 cloves Garlic Minced.For the Vegetables2 cups Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Broccoli) Feel free to use seasonal veggies as alternatives.For the Finishing Touch1 cup Basil Leaves Thai basil is preferable. Equipment Large potWok or frying pan Method Preparation StepsBegin by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the wide rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, generally about 8-10 minutes, until tender yet chewy. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside.In a large wok or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Swirl the oil around the pan to ensure even coverage.Add minced garlic to the hot wok, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately add the diced chicken breast, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and turns golden brown.Toss in your chopped bell peppers and broccoli, continuing to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.With the chicken and vegetables cooked, add the drained rice noodles to the wok. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chopped Thai chilies, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for about 2 minutes.Increase the heat to high for an additional 2 minutes of stir-frying to achieve a slight char on the noodles.Finally, remove the wok from heat and fold in the fresh basil leaves. Stir until the basil wilts slightly, which should take about 30 seconds. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
