If you’re craving a quick, flavorful stir-fry, look no further than Chicken Yaki Udon! This Japanese-inspired dish combines tender chicken, chewy udon noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without much fuss.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Yaki Udon
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Savory and Satisfying: The umami-packed sauce brings everything together.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice to your liking.
Ingredients for Chicken Yaki Udon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious stir-fried noodle dish:
- 2 packs of udon noodles (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)
- Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok: For stir-frying.
- Tongs or spatula: To toss the noodles and ingredients.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken and vegetables.
How to Make Chicken Yaki Udon
Step 1: Cook the Udon Noodles
- If using frozen or fresh udon noodles, cook according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. Be sure to rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Sauté the onion, carrot, and cabbage for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Add the bell peppers, garlic, and ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant and the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the udon noodles. Pour the sauce over everything and toss to coat well. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the noodles absorb the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your savory, stir-fried Chicken Yaki Udon!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a side of miso soup or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete Japanese-inspired meal.
- For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit of sriracha or a sprinkle of furikake (Japanese seasoning) before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Yaki Udon
- Use Fresh Udon for the Best Texture: Fresh or frozen udon noodles have a great chewy texture that works beautifully in stir-fries.
- Cut the Chicken Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and evenly, keeping the stir-fry fast and easy.
- Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp to retain their texture and flavor.
Storage Instructions
- To Store: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the noodles seem dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a different protein?
A: Yes! You can substitute the chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Q2: What vegetables can I use?
A: Feel free to add or substitute with other vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, zucchini, or snap peas.
Q3: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free udon or rice noodles, and make sure your soy sauce and hoisin sauce are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion: A Flavorful and Satisfying Stir-Fry!
This Chicken Yaki Udon is a wonderful dish to have in your recipe rotation. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with satisfying textures and savory goodness. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or for friends and family, this dish is sure to please!
Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your culinary creations.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Enjoy every bite of this delicious stir-fry, and feel free to customize it to your taste!
