Chicken Yaki Udon

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug, then this Chicken Yaki Udon recipe is just what you need. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together around the table, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory udon noodles makes this dish simply irresistible! You’ll love how easy it is to whip up after a long day, yet it tastes like something you’d get at your favorite restaurant.

Over the years, I’ve made this Chicken Yaki Udon countless times, and each time it feels special. It’s packed with flavor and color, making it not just a meal but an experience. So, let’s dive in and create something delicious together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, even picky eaters will enjoy every bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out veggies or proteins to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• One-pan wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up!
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun! For this Chicken Yaki Udon recipe, you’ll want simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s everything you need:

For the Stir Fry

• 4 7-ounce packets cooked udon noodles (frozen or vacuum-sealed)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or vegetable oil
• 1 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 yellow onion (cut into slices)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 carrots (cut into matchsticks)
• 5 mushrooms (cut into slices)
• 2 green onions (cut into slices)

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup dark soy sauce
• ¼ cup oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Yaki Udon is its flexibility! You can easily make this dish your own with just a few swaps. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try shrimp, tofu, or beef for different flavors.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, increase the red chili flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the stir fry.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free udon noodles or substitute with rice noodles for a different twist.

How to Make Chicken Yaki Udon

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

First things first! In a small bowl, mix together all the sauce ingredients until well combined. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you cook the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Next, heat your oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add your sliced onion and minced garlic first; sauté them until they’re fragrant and slightly translucent. Then toss in those bite-sized pieces of chicken and cook until they’re golden brown. This step ensures that every piece is flavorful right from the start!

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Now it’s time to bring in some color! Add your shredded cabbage, matchstick carrots, and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté these veggies for a few minutes until they soften but still retain some crunch—this keeps your stir fry vibrant!

Step 4: Cook Udon Noodles

While your vegetables are cooking, bring a pot of water to boil. Add your udon noodles and cook until they’re al dente—frozen ones take about 2-3 minutes while vacuum-sealed ones only need about 1 minute. Once cooked, drain and rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 5: Combine Everything

When your vegetables are tender but still bright in color, gently fold in the cooked udon noodles into the pan. Pour that delicious sauce over everything and toss well to ensure every noodle gets coated in that caramelized goodness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle sliced green onions on top for an extra burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chicken Yaki Udon! Your family will be asking for seconds before they even finish their first plate!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Yaki Udon

Making Chicken Yaki Udon is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh vegetables: Incorporating fresh, seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors and nutrients to your dish.

• Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure that the chicken pieces are cooked through until golden brown. This adds a nice texture and flavor, making each bite more enjoyable.

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Be mindful of the cooking time for your udon noodles. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and lose their delightful chewiness.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder or spicier dish, feel free to adjust the amount of red chili flakes. Customizing the spice level will ensure everyone at your table enjoys it.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stir fry to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking can help all the flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite taste even better!

How to Serve Chicken Yaki Udon

Presenting your Chicken Yaki Udon in an inviting way can make mealtime more special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Chopped cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley not only brighten up the plate but also add an aromatic freshness.

Side Dishes

• Edamame: Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt make for a healthy and satisfying snack that pairs wonderfully with yaki udon.
• Miso soup: A comforting bowl of miso soup provides a warm and savory complement to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Seaweed salad: This refreshing salad offers a unique textural contrast with its crunchy seaweed and tangy dressing, balancing out the heartiness of yaki udon.
• Pickled vegetables: A small side of pickled veggies adds a zesty kick that cleanses the palate between bites and brings additional flavor to your meal.

Enjoy your Chicken Yaki Udon with these serving suggestions, and watch as it becomes a favorite at your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Yaki Udon recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, making it a great option for busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chicken Yaki Udon to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Store individual portions in separate containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Freezing

• Let the stir-fry cool down before freezing.
• Portion the Chicken Yaki Udon into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Yaki Udon that might help you out!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in Chicken Yaki Udon?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or tofu as delicious alternatives. Just adjust cooking times based on your chosen protein!

Is Chicken Yaki Udon suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Chicken Yaki Udon is excellent for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be frozen for later use.

What type of noodles can I substitute if I can’t find udon?

If you can’t find udon noodles, you can use soba noodles or even rice noodles as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How spicy is Chicken Yaki Udon?

The spiciness level of this dish depends on how much red chili flakes you add. Feel free to adjust it based on your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Chicken Yaki Udon! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—happy cooking!