12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal that delivers big on flavor, then you’ve found it with these 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles! This dish is my go-to when I’m pressed for time but still want something delicious. The combination of chicken mince and creamy peanut sauce makes for a comforting dish that the whole family will love, even on those busy weeknights. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing friends at casual gatherings!

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in just 12 minutes, making it ideal for any night of the week when you need to get dinner on the table fast. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal comes together in just 12 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy peanut sauce and fun noodles—it’s a hit with everyone.
• Customizable: Switch up the protein or add veggies based on what you have at home.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices and creamy coconut milk ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create these delightful noodles:

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 200g/7oz chicken mince (ground chicken)
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1 1/2 tbsp red curry paste, separated
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce
• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock/broth (low sodium)
• 3/4 cup coconut milk (~1/2 a can; full fat for best flavor)
• 2 tbsp cider vinegar
• 3 tbsp peanut butter

For the Noodles

• 2 instant ramen or noodle cakes (~70-100g/2.5-3.5oz per cake; any brand; discard seasoning pack)

For the Finish

• 2 (big!) handfuls baby spinach
• 2 tbsp peanuts, finely chopped
• Roughly chopped fresh coriander/cilantro leaves
• Sriracha or other chili paste (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken mince for a different twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken mince with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
• Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, increase the amount of Sriracha or add fresh chilies.

How to Make 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles

Step 1: Sauté Garlic

Start by heating oil in a medium skillet over high heat. This particular step sets the stage for all those aromatic flavors to come alive! Add your minced garlic and sauté until it turns golden—this should only take about 20 seconds.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Next, toss in the chicken mince. Cook it for about 2 minutes while breaking it up with a spatula. You’ll want to keep an eye on it as you go until most of the meat has turned from pink to white. This is where you’ll build that savory base!

Step 3: Add Flavorings

To amp up those flavors even more, add in 1 tablespoon of red curry paste along with curry powder and soy sauce. Cook everything together for another minute—this helps meld those tastes beautifully!

Step 4: Cook Extra Curry Paste

Now we want to really bring out that curry paste flavor. Clear a space in the middle of your pan and add the remaining half tablespoon of curry paste there. Stir it around for about 30 seconds so that all those wonderful spices become aromatic.

Step 5: Simmer Stock

Pour in your low-sodium chicken stock and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling away nicely, reduce to medium-high heat and let it simmer for one more minute.

Step 6: Add Noodles

Here’s where things get exciting! Squish those noodle cakes into the pan while gently pushing aside some of that juicy chicken mixture so they can submerge properly.

Step 7: Cook Noodles

Let them cook undisturbed for about 45 seconds before flipping them over carefully. After another 30 seconds, use two wooden spoons to separate the noodles—this ensures they don’t clump together!

Step 8: Add Peanut Sauce

Now it’s time for the rich peanut sauce! Push your noodles aside again and add coconut milk, peanut butter, and cider vinegar into that saucy goodness you’ve created. Give everything a quick mix until most of the peanut butter dissolves.

Step 9: Toss with Spinach

Add in those vibrant baby spinach leaves now! Toss them around with your noodles until they wilt down nicely—this should take no longer than 30 seconds. Remember to keep it saucy; nobody likes dry noodles!

Step 10: Serve

Finally, transfer your delicious creation into serving bowls. Top with chopped peanuts, fresh coriander leaves, and drizzle some Sriracha if you’d like an extra kick! Enjoy every flavorful bite of your homemade Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles!

Pro Tips for Making 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a quick and scrumptious recipe like this one at your fingertips! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish is as delicious as possible.

• Prep your ingredients first: Having everything ready to go means you won’t waste precious time while cooking. It ensures that each step flows smoothly, making it easier to whip up this meal in just 12 minutes.

• Use a high heat: Cooking on high heat helps to quickly sear the chicken and brings out those beautiful flavors. This prevents the chicken from steaming and keeps it juicy!

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles while they cook; overcooking can lead to mushy noodles that lack texture. Remember, you want them to absorb just enough sauce without turning clumpy!

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Sriracha or chili paste. Conversely, if you’re a spice lover, feel free to add extra! Tailoring the heat to your taste ensures everyone at the table enjoys their meal.

• Save leftovers wisely: If you have any leftover noodles, store them in an airtight container in the fridge but keep the sauce separate. This prevents the noodles from becoming too soggy when reheating later.

How to Serve 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles

Presentation can elevate even the simplest meals! Serve your Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles with flair for an inviting touch that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a wonderful crunch and mild onion flavor that complements the creamy peanut sauce beautifully.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds nuttiness and a lovely visual appeal, making your dish look irresistible.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick that balances the richness of the peanut sauce.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls filled with fresh veggies are perfect for dipping into sweet chili sauce. They provide a delightful contrast to your creamy noodles.

• Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and a hint of sugar offers crunch and acidity, which cuts through the richness of the peanut noodles wonderfully.

• Steamed Edamame: Simply steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a protein-packed side that’s easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with Asian-inspired dishes.

• Mango Sticky Rice: For those with a sweet tooth, this classic dessert combines sweet coconut sticky rice with ripe mangoes, creating a heavenly end to your Thai-themed meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set for a delightful dining experience featuring these 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Consider separating the noodles from the sauce to prevent clumping when thawed.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stir frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I make 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken mince with your favorite plant-based ground meat or tofu. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

What can I substitute in 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles?

You can use ground turkey, beef, or even chickpeas instead of chicken mince. Additionally, you can swap coconut milk for cashew cream for a nut-free option.

How spicy are these 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha or chili paste you add. Start with a little and taste as you go!

How do I store leftovers of 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these 12 Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles! This dish is not only quick but bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and toppings, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family! Happy cooking!