Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sizzling sounds of my skillet filled the kitchen, I felt transported straight to the vibrant streets of Tokyo. This Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a quick escape into the heart of Japanese comfort food. With thick, chewy udon noodles stir-fried with your choice of juicy chicken, beef, turkey, or tofu, plus an assortment of colorful vegetables, you can create a customized delight that caters to everyone’s tastes. The best part? You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or those times when you want to impress guests without the stress. Ready to dive into this incredible dish that brings a taste of Japan right to your dining table? Let’s get cooking! Why is Yaki Udon a Must-Try? Irresistible flavor: Yaki Udon noodles are wonderfully savory, thanks to the fusion of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil—each bite bursts with delightful umami goodness. Customizable creations: Whether you prefer chicken, beef, turkey, or tofu, this recipe can easily adapt to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Quick and easy: You can have this flavorful dish ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect even on your busiest days. Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family or guests with a delicious meal that appeals to both adults and kids alike. Culinary adventure: Bring Tokyo’s street food scene to your kitchen, offering a fun way to explore a beloved Japanese dish from the comfort of your home. If you’re looking for more comfort food inspiration, check out our delicious comfort food recipes. Yaki Udon Noodle Ingredients For the Noodles Udon Noodles – These thick, chewy noodles provide the perfect base for the dish—choose fresh or frozen based on availability. For the Protein Boneless Chicken Breast – Adds protein and substance; substitution options include beef, turkey, or tofu to cater to different preferences. For the Vegetables Bell Peppers – Offers sweetness and vibrant color; slice thinly for even cooking. Carrots – Contributes a satisfying crunch; julienne or thinly slice for the best texture. Green Onions – Provides a mild onion flavor; finely chop to sprinkle as a fresh garnish. For the Sauce Soy Sauce – Brings savory depth to the dish; using low-sodium options can help control saltiness better. Sesame Oil – Infuses a rich, nutty aroma; utilize it for sautéing ingredients for the best flavor. Vegetable Broth – Enhances the dish’s taste while cooking; it’s preferable to use this over plain water. For the Aromatic Garlic Cloves – Introduces aromatic richness to the dish; customize the amount to suit your liking. Bringing together these ingredients will set you on the path to creating a memorable Yaki Udon Noodle experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Yaki Udon Noodle Step 1: Prepare the Noodles Begin by cooking the udon noodles according to the package instructions, typically boiling them in a pot of water for 5-7 minutes until tender but firm. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside, ready to absorb all the delicious flavors in your Yaki Udon noodle dish. Step 2: Sauté the Chicken In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes. Add the sliced boneless chicken breast and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm. Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables Using the same skillet, add a little more sesame oil if needed, then toss in the thinly sliced bell peppers and julienned carrots. Stir-fry these vibrant vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. The colors should brighten, and the aromas will fill your kitchen as they cook. Step 4: Combine Everything Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, and then add the prepared udon noodles. Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1/4 cup of vegetable broth, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes over medium heat until everything is heated through and the noodles have absorbed some of the sauce. Step 5: Add Garlic & Garnish During the last minute of cooking, incorporate 2 minced garlic cloves to the Yaki Udon noodles, stirring well until fragrant. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle finely chopped green onions on top for a burst of freshness. This step enhances the dish with aromatic notes and a touch of color. Step 6: Serve & Enjoy Now it’s time to plate your delicious Yaki Udon! Serve the stir-fried noodles hot, allowing everyone to dig in. For an extra flavor kick, offer additional soy sauce on the side. This comforting dish beautifully showcases all the savory and tender elements you’ve created, promising delight in every bite. Make Ahead Options These Yaki Udon Noodles are perfect for meal prep! You can cook the udon noodles and proteins (like chicken, beef, turkey, or tofu) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked noodles and proteins in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. You can also chop the vegetables (bell peppers, carrots) ahead of time and refrigerate them, which saves crucial minutes during busy weeknights. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sautéed chicken and vegetables in a skillet, add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, and vegetable broth, and finish by incorporating minced garlic for a quick, weeknight-friendly meal that tastes just as delicious as if you made it fresh! What to Serve with Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe Enhance your Yaki Udon experience with these delightful pairings that complement its vibrant flavors and textures. Crispy Spring Rolls: The light, crunchy texture of spring rolls adds a delightful contrast to the chewy noodles, creating a balanced bite. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the umami flavors already present in the dish, offering a lovely, comforting starter. Sesame Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad’s crispness and tangy dressing nicely cut through the richness of the udon noodles, making it an ideal side. Spicy Edamame: Adding a bit of spice to your meal, these protein-packed pods provide a fun, interactive way to enjoy a protein-rich snack alongside. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Juicy, grilled chicken drizzled with teriyaki sauce complements the Yaki Udon’s savory profile, creating a cohesive meal. Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake, which enhances the meal with its smooth, slightly sweet finish, harmonizing beautifully with the dish’s savory notes. Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream: For dessert, this creamy treat offers a rich contrast to the meal’s flavors, perfect for a sweet finish that lingers on the palate. Expert Tips for Yaki Udon Noodle • Sear for Flavor: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding chicken. Searing locks in moisture and enhances the overall flavor of your Yaki Udon noodles. • Vegetable Variety: Don’t hesitate to mix up your veggies! Adding seasonal selections like snap peas or broccoli not only boosts nutrition but also brings vibrant colors to your dish. • Noodle Texture: Keep an eye on the cooking time for your udon noodles. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture—ideally, they should be tender yet chewy for the perfect bite. • Sauce Balance: Adjust soy sauce according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a lighter flavor, start with less and increase gradually to avoid overpowering the dish. • Aromatic Boost: Incorporate garlic at the last minute of cooking to preserve its aroma and flavor, keeping your Yaki Udon noodles vibrant and fresh. Storage Tips for Yaki Udon Noodles Fridge: Store any leftover Yaki Udon Noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth or water, stirring occasionally until heated through, ensuring the noodles remain tender. Flavor Maintenance: Adding a little extra soy sauce during reheating can help refresh the savory flavors of your Yaki Udon Noodle leftovers. Yaki Udon Noodle Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and customize your Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe! The options are endless, and each twist can take your dish to a whole new level. Dairy-Free: Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a sweet and savory hint that’s also dairy-free. Protein Swap: Use shrimp or tempeh instead of chicken for a delightful twist that adds unique flavors. Add More Veggies: Toss in sliced zucchini or baby corn to increase the texture and freshness in your dish. Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to amp up the heat and tantalize your taste buds. Noodle Variety: Try rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative; just be mindful of cooking times for the best texture. Sauce Twist: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or a homemade ginger-soy blend for a refreshing change to the traditional flavor. Nutty Addition: Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch and an irresistible nuttiness. Herbal Infusion: Garnish with fresh basil or cilantro for an aromatic finish that brightens up every bite. Remember, cooking is all about exploring new flavors! If you’re ever in need of other comfort food ideas, check out our delightful comfort food recipes or discover how to make delicious homemade sauces to elevate any meal! Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe FAQs What type of udon noodles should I use for this recipe? Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen udon noodles for this recipe. Fresh noodles will cook up a bit faster and have a delightful chewy texture, whereas frozen noodles can be just as delicious once properly cooked. Ensure to follow the package instructions for the best results. How should I store leftover Yaki Udon Noodles? For any leftovers, you’ll want to store them in an airtight container in the fridge where they can last for up to 3 days. Just remember to cool them down to room temperature before sealing them in, as trapped heat could lead to sogginess. If you have more than you could finish, freezing is a fantastic option! Can I freeze Yaki Udon Noodles? Very! To freeze your Yaki Udon, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer bags. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. What should I do if my udon noodles are too mushy? If you find your udon noodles are overcooked and too mushy, there’s still hope! While you won’t be able to fully restore them, you can try mixing them with a bit of additional soy sauce and sautéing on medium heat for a couple of minutes. This can help crisp up the edges slightly and improve the overall flavor. Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe? Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free version, you can swap traditional udon noodles for rice noodles or gluten-free noodles made from ingredients like rice or quinoa. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so be sure to check the package instructions. Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan? Definitely! To create a vegetarian or vegan Yaki Udon, simply substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options. Also, check your soy sauce to ensure it’s vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain fish sauce. Enjoy customizing this delicious dish! Deliciously Easy Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers Experience the savory delight of Yaki Udon Noodles, a quick comfort food that brings the vibrant taste of Japan to your home. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Noodles1 pack Udon Noodles fresh or frozenFor the Protein1 lb Boneless Chicken Breast substitute with beef, turkey, or tofu if desired.For the Vegetables1 cup Bell Peppers thinly sliced1 cup Carrots julienned or thinly sliced2 stalks Green Onions finely choppedFor the Sauce3 tablespoons Soy Sauce low-sodium optional2 tablespoons Sesame Oil1/4 cup Vegetable Broth preferablyFor the Aromatic2 cloves Garlic Cloves minced Equipment Large skillet or wok Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Yaki Udon NoodleBegin by cooking the udon noodles according to the package instructions, typically boiling them in a pot of water for 5-7 minutes until tender but firm. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, add the sliced boneless chicken breast and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until browned and no longer pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.Using the same skillet, add more sesame oil if needed, then toss in the sliced bell peppers and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but retain some crunch.Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables, and add the udon noodles. Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1/4 cup of vegetable broth, stirring thoroughly. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.During the last minute of cooking, add 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring well until fragrant. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions on top.Plate your delicious Yaki Udon while hot. Offer additional soy sauce on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesFor optimal flavor, ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. Adjust soy sauce to taste, and feel free to add seasonal vegetables for variety. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
