Few dishes can deliver the perfect balance of savory flavors, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables like Chicken Teriyaki Noodles with Vegetables – A Balanced Meal. This dish is a celebration of vibrant ingredients, made complete with a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce and the comforting chewiness of udon noodles. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or craving takeout-style food made healthier, this recipe is your go-to solution.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a one-pan wonder that brings together the best of Japanese-inspired cuisine with minimal effort. It combines protein-rich chicken, nutrient-packed vegetables, and the satisfying chew of udon noodles, all coated in a glossy, umami-rich teriyaki sauce. The result? A meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki Noodles with Vegetables
Here’s everything you need to whip up this flavorful dish:
For the Teriyaki Sauce
Ingredient | Amount |
Soy sauce | ½ cup |
Water | ¼ cup |
Mirin (sweet rice wine) | 2 tablespoons |
Brown sugar | ¼ cup |
Honey | 1 tablespoon |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
Cold water (for slurry) | 2 tablespoons |
For the Chicken Teriyaki Noodle Dish
Ingredient | Amount |
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 1 pound |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
Fresh or frozen udon noodles | 12 ounces |
Onion (sliced) | 1 |
Carrots (julienned) | 2 |
Broccoli florets | 2 cups |
Cabbage (sliced) | 1 cup |
Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tablespoon |
Green onions (sliced) | 2 |
Sesame seeds | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Teriyaki Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, mirin, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Whisk the mixture and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry. Slowly add it to the saucepan while whisking constantly.
- Continue to simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Pour ¼ cup of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Toss to coat, cover, and let marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the broccoli, cabbage, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. Prepare the Noodles
- Cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process.
6. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked chicken, udon noodles, and remaining teriyaki sauce to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Toss everything together and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until heated through and well combined.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Serve the chicken teriyaki noodles hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Enjoy your balanced, flavorful meal!
Tips for the Best Chicken Teriyaki Noodles
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep them al dente to maintain their chewiness when stir-fried.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini.
- Double the Sauce: If you prefer extra sauce, make a larger batch of teriyaki sauce for drizzling.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
Calories | 430 |
Protein | 30g |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 3g |
Carbohydrates | 48g |
Fiber | 5g |
Sodium | 1200mg |
What Makes This Dish Balanced?
This recipe combines protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in a single dish, making it a nutritionally balanced meal. Here’s why:
- Chicken: A lean protein source that keeps you full and energized.
- Udon Noodles: Provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Vegetables: Add fiber, vitamins, and minerals for a nutrient boost.
- Teriyaki Sauce: Offers a sweet and savory flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with simple sides or drinks to create a complete meal:
- Miso Soup: A warm, comforting starter.
- Edamame: Lightly salted for a crunchy side.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing contrast to the rich teriyaki sauce.
- Green Tea: Complements the meal with its earthy flavors.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Teriyaki Noodles: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
- Seafood Option: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
- Low-Sodium Sauce: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and skip the added salt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! Soba, lo mein, or even spaghetti can work as substitutes for udon noodles.
2. How long does the teriyaki sauce last?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components (chicken, sauce, and veggies) in advance, but combine everything fresh to maintain the best texture.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles from drying out.
5. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles, such as rice noodles.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet.
Why Chicken Teriyaki Noodles are Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, meal prep for the week, or a quick dish to impress guests, Chicken Teriyaki Noodles with Vegetables – A Balanced Meal fits the bill. Its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and nutritious ingredients make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Conclusion: Ready to Cook This Delicious Dish?
Now that you’ve learned how to make Chicken Teriyaki Noodles with Vegetables – A Balanced Meal, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is easy, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying meal. Try it tonight and bring the taste of a Japanese-inspired kitchen into your home.
PrintChicken Teriyaki Noodles with Vegetables – A Balanced Meal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles with Vegetables is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy udon noodles coated in a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this Japanese-inspired meal is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a healthier takeout alternative.
Ingredients
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry)
For the Noodles:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen udon noodles
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cabbage, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, mirin, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Whisk and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the saucepan.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Pour ¼ cup of the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Toss to coat, cover, and let marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add broccoli, cabbage, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook udon noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent overcooking.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked chicken, udon noodles, and remaining teriyaki sauce to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Toss everything together and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until heated through and evenly coated.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and enjoy your balanced, flavorful meal!
Notes
- Use fresh vegetables and aromatics for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sauce’s sweetness or saltiness to your preference by modifying the sugar or soy sauce amounts.
- Feel free to swap udon noodles with soba, lo mein, or even spaghetti in a pinch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired