Jump to Recipe Print RecipeA sizzling wok, fragrant herbs, and the promise of a taste adventure—who could resist? That’s the magic moment when I first fell in love with Spicy Drunken Noodles. This delightful Thai dish, featuring tender chicken and chewy rice noodles, is a fantastic way to spice up your weeknight dinners without the fuss of takeout. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll whip up a meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with delicious flavor—perfect for those busy evenings when comfort food calls. Fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch, while those aromatic Thai chilies give it just the right kick. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a culinary journey that combines heat and heart? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe! Why are Spicy Drunken Noodles irresistible? Bold, Complex Flavors: The rich blend of soy and oyster sauce creates a mouthwatering depth that makes each bite a delight. Quick Cooking: This recipe is designed for busy nights, ready in just 30 minutes! Comforting Goodness: Perfectly chewy rice noodles and tender chicken wrap you in warmth, making you feel right at home. Customizable: Want to switch things up? Add shrimp or beef, or throw in more veggies for extra crunch! You might also explore other quick dishes like Spicy Ramen Minutes or Hot Honey Chicken. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these noodles are sure to impress everyone at the table! Spicy Drunken Noodles Ingredients • Get ready to make a delicious dish! For the Noodles Wide Rice Noodles – These provide the chewy base; substitute with udon or egg noodles if you’re in a pinch. For the Protein Chicken Breast – A great source of lean protein; feel free to swap this with tofu for a vegetarian option. For the Sauce Soy Sauce – Adds that savory depth; consider using low-sodium soy sauce to keep it lighter. Oyster Sauce – Brings in sweetness and umami; hoisin sauce works well for a vegetarian alternative. For the Spice Thai Chilies – They inject the right kind of heat; adjust the amount based on your personal spice tolerance. For Freshness Basil (Thai Basil) – Infuses the dish with aromatic notes; you can use regular basil if Thai isn’t available. For the Veggies Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Carrots) – They add both flavor and nutrition; don’t hesitate to mix in other colorful veggies you love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Drunken Noodles Step 1: Prep Ingredients Soak the wide rice noodles in a bowl of warm water for about 20 minutes or until they soften. Meanwhile, slice the chicken breast into thin strips and chop your chosen vegetables, like bell peppers and carrots, into bite-sized pieces. Gather your sauces and Thai chilies to have everything ready when you start cooking. Step 2: Cook Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the sliced chicken. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and starting to brown. This gives the protein a nice crust while keeping it tender inside. Step 3: Stir-Fry Veggies Add the prepared vegetables and Thai chilies to the wok with the chicken. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are vibrant and tender-crisp, ensuring the chilies have released their heat into the mix. Stir frequently to keep everything from sticking to the pan. Step 4: Combine Next, add the softened rice noodles to the pan along with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Toss everything together gently for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the noodles are well-coated and heated through. You’ll want them to shimmer in the sauce for that perfect flavor infusion. Step 5: Finish with Basil Just before serving, fold in a generous handful of fresh Thai basil leaves, stirring for about 1 minute. The heat from the noodles will release the aromatic oils from the basil, enhancing your Spicy Drunken Noodles with an irresistible fragrance. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before plating. Expert Tips for Spicy Drunken Noodles Noodle Consistency: Ensure the rice noodles are soaked just until soft. Overcooking them can lead to mushy noodles in your Spicy Drunken Noodles. Heat Control: Start with fewer Thai chilies if you’re unsure about spiciness. You can always add more later, but they can easily overpower the dish. High Heat Cooking: Use high heat when stir-frying to get that coveted char and flavor. This technique helps prevent the chicken and vegetables from steaming. Fresh Herbs Last: Add Thai basil at the end to keep its vibrant flavor intact. Stirring in fresh herbs too early can diminish their aromatic qualities. Versatile Protein Choices: Don’t hesitate to mix proteins! Shrimp or beef can give you a delightful twist on the traditional Spicy Drunken Noodles recipe. Make Ahead Options These Spicy Drunken Noodles are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken, vegetables, and sauces up to 24 hours in advance. Simply slice the chicken and veggies, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Also, mix your sauces ahead of time to save precious minutes during the busy week. While the noodles are best made fresh, you can soak them in warm water for up to 2 hours before cooking to soften them. When you’re ready to serve, just stir-fry the chicken and veggies, toss in the prepped noodles and sauces, and finish with fresh basil. This way, you’ll get delightful, flavorful results with minimal effort! Spicy Drunken Noodles Variations & Substitutions Invite your culinary creativity and explore delightful twists on this spicy Thai dish, ensuring an irresistible experience every time! Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a delicious seafood twist—cooks in just a few minutes! Vegetarian Delight: Omit chicken and add tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian version. Increase the vegetable variety for extra texture! Noodle Choice: Make the dish gluten-free by using rice noodles or swap in whole grain spaghetti for a healthier option. Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of lime juice for added zest or a hint of fish sauce for authentic Thai flavor. Nutty Crunch: Add chopped peanuts or cashews before serving for an exciting crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Extra Heat: Want it spicier? Toss in extra Thai chilies or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery kick that’ll make your taste buds tingle! Vegetable Medley: Mix in broccoli or snap peas for more color and nutrition—these pair beautifully with the bold flavors. Sweet & Spicy Mix: Introduce a sprinkle of brown sugar or honey for a hint of sweetness that balances the heat of the chilies. Whether you’re in the mood for a twist of seafood, a veggie-packed dish, or a flavor-packed blend, this recipe is as flexible as your creativity! If you’re curious about exploring more quick meals, check out our tasty Mexican Potatoes Spicy for another comforting delight! How to Store and Freeze Spicy Drunken Noodles Fridge: Store leftover Spicy Drunken Noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain flavor and prevents drying out. Freezer: If you need to freeze, place the noodles in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. They can last up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and enhance moisture. Avoid Overcrowding: When reheating, do so in batches if using a skillet, as overcrowding can lead to uneven heating and texture loss. What to Serve with Spicy Drunken Noodles Transform your Spicy Drunken Noodles into a delightful feast with these exciting pairings that cater to every craving. Lime Wedges: The tartness of lime adds a refreshing zing that brightens the flavors of the dish beautifully. Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites offer a satisfying contrast to the chewy noodles while providing a burst of flavor in every dip. Thai Cucumber Salad: A cool, tangy salad brings balance to the heat of the noodles, featuring crisp cucumbers and a zesty dressing. Garlic Edamame: A protein-rich snack that complements the noodles while adding a nutty flavor, making it a delightful and nutritious side. Sweet Thai Iced Tea: The creamy sweetness of this iconic beverage provides the perfect counterpoint to the spicy warmth of the noodles. Mango Sticky Rice: A decadent dessert that combines sweet, rich flavors and textures, finishing your meal on a luscious note. These pairings not only enhance the experience but also create a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your guests craving more! Spicy Drunken Noodles Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right noodles for Spicy Drunken Noodles? When selecting noodles, wide rice noodles are ideal for achieving that chewy texture. If you can’t find them, udon or egg noodles work as great substitutes. Just ensure to soak them until soft but not overcooked for the best results. What’s the best method for storing leftovers? Absolutely! Store any leftover Spicy Drunken Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents them from drying out. Just remember to let them cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain their texture. Can I freeze my Spicy Drunken Noodles? Yes, you can! To freeze Spicy Drunken Noodles, place the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove with a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture. What if I want to adjust the spiciness level? Very! If you’re concerned about the heat, start with fewer Thai chilies and add them gradually. You can always taste and adjust as you cook. Another option is to remove the seeds from the chilies to lessen the heat without losing flavor. Your taste buds will thank you! Are there any dietary considerations for pets regarding the ingredients? Yes, it’s important to be cautious! While many ingredients like rice noodles and vegetables are safe for pets, ingredients like soy and oyster sauce can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always ensure leftovers are stored away from pets and check with your vet if you’re unsure about particular ingredients. How long do the vegetables stay fresh after cooking? The cooked vegetables should maintain their vibrant color and crispness for about 2 to 3 days when stored properly in the fridge. When reheating, do so gently to avoid further softening. If they start turning dull or mushy, it’s a sign they’re past their prime. Enjoy the freshness while it lasts! Savor the Heat: Spicy Drunken Noodles You’ll Love Enjoy a culinary adventure with Spicy Drunken Noodles, a flavorful Thai dish combining tender chicken, chewy rice noodles, and aromatic Thai chilies. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ThaiCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Noodles8 oz Wide Rice Noodles Substitute with udon or egg noodles if needed.For the Protein1 lb Chicken Breast Can be replaced with tofu for vegetarian option.For the Sauce2 tbsp Soy Sauce Use low-sodium for a lighter option.1 tbsp Oyster Sauce Hoisin sauce works as a vegetarian alternative.For the Spice2-3 pieces Thai Chilies Adjust to personal spice tolerance.For Freshness1 cup Basil (Thai Basil) Regular basil can be used if Thai isn’t available.For the Veggies1 cup Bell Peppers Chopped into bite-sized pieces.1 cup Carrots Chopped into bite-sized pieces. Equipment Wok or Skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Drunken NoodlesSoak the wide rice noodles in warm water for about 20 minutes until softened. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips and chop the vegetables.Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.Add the prepared vegetables and Thai chilies to the wok with the chicken and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until vibrant and tender.Add the softened rice noodles, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Toss gently for 2-3 minutes until well-coated.Fold in a generous handful of fresh Thai basil leaves and stir for about 1 minute before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of water to prevent sticking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
