Sometimes, you crave a meal that’s packed with bold flavors, satisfying textures, and just the right amount of spice to make your taste buds dance. That’s exactly what you’ll get with Spicy Korean-Inspired Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies and Noodles. This dish is the perfect combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, chewy noodles, and a deliciously spicy sauce. It’s hearty enough to please everyone at the table and quick enough for even the busiest weeknight.
Whether you’re new to Korean flavors or already a fan of gochujang (Korean chili paste), this recipe will transport you to the bustling street food stalls of Seoul. Ready to dive into this easy and flavor-packed meal? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Korean Chicken Stir Fry
Here are some reasons why this dish will become a go-to in your meal rotation:
- Quick and easy: You can have this entire meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- Packed with flavor: Gochujang adds a unique mix of spice, sweetness, and umami that’s unforgettable.
- Customizable: Use any vegetables or noodles you prefer to suit your taste.
- Balanced: It’s a perfect combination of protein, veggies, and carbs for a complete meal.
- Family-friendly: You can adjust the spiciness, making it suitable for everyone.
Ingredients for Spicy Korean-Inspired Chicken Stir Fry
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful stir fry:
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| For the Chicken: | Chicken breast, thinly sliced | 400g |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Black pepper | To taste | |
| Paprika | To taste | |
| Vegetable oil | For cooking | |
| For the Noodles: | Noodles or pasta | 250g |
| For the Vegetables: | Carrot, julienned | 1 |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1 | |
| Bell pepper, thinly sliced | 1 | |
| Spring onions, chopped | 1 bunch | |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | |
| For the Sauce: | Gochujang (or sweet chili sauce) | 45ml |
| Soy sauce | 45ml | |
| Sesame oil (optional) | 1 tbsp | |
| Paprika or gochugaru (chili flakes) | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Korean Chicken Stir Fry
Follow these steps for a foolproof and delicious stir fry:
1. Cook the Noodles
- Boil Water: Start by boiling a large pot of water.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the noodles or pasta and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and Set Aside: Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the stir fry.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the thinly sliced chicken breast with salt, black pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Stir Fry the Vegetables
- Add More Oil: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed.
- Cook the Garlic and Onion: Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the Carrot and Bell Pepper: Stir in the julienned carrot and bell pepper slices. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Create the Sauce
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine gochujang (or sweet chili sauce), soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using).
- Adjust Spice Level: Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika if you prefer extra heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Combine Chicken, Veggies, and Sauce
- Add the Chicken Back: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the Sauce: Drizzle the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring everything together to ensure it’s evenly coated.
- Simmer Briefly: Let the mixture cook for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Mix in the Noodles
- Add the Noodles: Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.
- Coat Evenly: Stir everything together until the noodles are fully coated with the sauce and combined with the other ingredients.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Top with Spring Onions: Sprinkle the chopped spring onions over the stir fry for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Optional Garnish: Add toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil for added flavor.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy your Spicy Korean-Inspired Chicken Stir Fry immediately, straight from the pan to your plate.
Tips for Making the Perfect Korean Chicken Stir Fry
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and chicken make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the veggies: Keep them slightly crisp for the best stir fry texture.
- Adjust the spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, use sweet chili sauce instead of gochujang.
- Choose the right noodles: Udon, soba, or even spaghetti can work, depending on what you have on hand.
- Prep everything first: Stir frying happens quickly, so make sure all your ingredients are ready before you start cooking.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (recipe serves 4):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | ~30g |
| Carbohydrates | ~40g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
FAQ: Spicy Korean-Inspired Chicken Stir Fry
1. Can I use a different protein?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.
2. What if I don’t have gochujang?
No problem! Use sweet chili sauce or sriracha as a substitute. Both add a slightly different flavor but still work beautifully.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
4. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include broccoli, zucchini, snap peas, or even baby corn for added variety.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save effort on busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spicy Korean-Inspired Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies and Noodles isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant colors. It’s spicy, savory, and slightly sweet, with a perfect balance of textures that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding your family, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Ready to Cook?
What are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and bring a taste of Korea to your kitchen tonight. With its bold flavors, quick prep time, and endless customization options, this Spicy Korean-Inspired Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies and Noodles is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!