Save Experience the ultimate comfort food with these Creamy Thai-Inspired Peanut Noodle Bowls. This dish brings together the rich, savory depth of a peanut sauce with tender ground chicken and crisp, vibrant vegetables. What truly sets this recipe apart is the unique potsticker noodle technique, which creates delightful crispy edges that provide a satisfying textural contrast to the silky, flavor-packed sauce.
Save Whether you're craving a bowl of hearty lo mein or a lighter rice noodle dish, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality Thai-inspired flavors right in your own kitchen. The sautéed bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas add a fresh crunch that complements the savory ground chicken perfectly.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil)
Noodles
- 8 oz (225 g) wide rice noodles or lo mein noodles
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snap peas, halved
- 4 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
Peanut Sauce
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water (plus more as needed)
Garnishes
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, and water until smooth. Add more water for a thinner sauce if desired. Set aside.
- 2. Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- 3. Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- 4. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add bell pepper, carrots, snap peas, and half the green onions. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender but vibrant.
- 5. Potsticker Noodle Technique
- Add drained noodles to the pan, pressing them gently into an even layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to form crispy edges on the bottom (like potstickers).
- 6. Combine
- Return cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the peanut sauce and toss everything together until well combined and heated through, loosening with a splash of water if needed.
- 7. Serve
- Divide among bowls. Garnish with chopped peanuts, remaining green onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a large skillet or wok is essential for the potsticker noodle technique to work effectively. Be mindful of allergens as this dish contains peanuts, soy, and wheat. Each serving provides approximately 540 calories, 23g fat, 54g carbohydrates, and 29g protein. Essential tools include a medium pot for noodles, mixing bowls, a whisk, and tongs or a spatula.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the ground chicken with firm tofu or a plant-based ground protein. To add even more crunch and volume, consider stirring in shredded cabbage or fresh bean sprouts during the stir-fry stage. For a gluten-free meal, always use rice noodles and substitute the soy sauce with tamari.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these bowls hot, generously garnished with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens the creamy sauce. For a perfect pairing, enjoy this dish with a crisp, aromatic white wine like Riesling.
Save With its vibrant colors and rich, creamy textures, these Thai-inspired peanut noodle bowls are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Master the potsticker technique and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.
Recipe Guide
- → What makes the noodles crispy?
The potsticker technique involves pressing cooked noodles into the hot pan and letting them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. This creates a crispy, golden bottom layer similar to traditional potstickers while keeping the rest tender.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground chicken with firm tofu cubes or plant-based ground meat alternative. Cook the tofu until lightly browned before adding vegetables for best texture.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is easily adjustable. Start with 1 tablespoon sriracha for moderate spice, or reduce to 1 teaspoon for milder flavor. You can always add more chili sauce when serving.
- → What noodles work best?
Wide rice noodles create the most authentic texture, but lo mein, udon, or even spaghetti work well. Rice noodles keep the dish gluten-free when paired with tamari instead of soy sauce.
- → Can I prepare this ahead?
Make the peanut sauce up to 3 days in advance and store refrigerated. Slice vegetables earlier in the day, but cook everything just before serving for the best crispy noodle texture.
- → What protein alternatives work?
Sliced chicken breast, shrimp, or thin beef strips work beautifully. For plant-based options, try edamame, crispy tofu, or tempeh. Adjust cooking time accordingly.