Name: Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 350 grams / 12 oz. uncooked rice stir fry noodles; 2 medium skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced across the grain; 1-2 tablespoons cooking oil; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup; 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce; 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or cornflour); Sesame seeds (optional); Chopped peanuts (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 13 reviews

If you are craving a dish that brings together vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and a hint of spicy-sweet indulgence, this Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. The tender chicken slices pair beautifully with silky rice noodles, all enveloped in a creamy, aromatic peanut sauce that’s perfectly balanced with just a touch of sriracha heat. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dinner to impress, this recipe delivers comfort and excitement in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with raw chicken pieces in the center on a white marbled surface. Around it, there are eight small white dishes arranged, each containing different ingredients: a small bowl of yellow oil to the left, a pile of white noodles below the chicken bowl, a white dish with minced garlic below the noodles, and beside it another small dish with a brown paste. To the right of the chicken bowl, a white dish contains a light brown creamy sauce, and above it, two more bowls hold dark soy sauce and a medium brown sauce. Above these, a small white bowl with white powder and a small glass of clear liquid are placed. On the far left, three green onion stalks lay flat diagonally, and a few peanuts rest near them. The whole setup is neat, bright, and clean. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Chicken Recipe lies in its simple but powerful ingredients. Each one contributes uniquely—whether it’s the creamy texture of peanut butter, the subtle kick from garlic, or the sweetness of sugar-free maple syrup—together they create an unforgettable dish.

350 grams / 12 oz. uncooked rice stir fry noodles: These are the perfect base, offering a light yet chewy texture to soak up the peanut sauce.
2 medium skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced): Sliced thin to cook quickly and stay tender, providing a protein-packed punch.
1-2 tablespoons cooking oil: Essential for sautéing chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds fragrant depth and a savory foundation to the sauce.
1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings saltiness and umami that enhances every other ingredient.
1/4 cup peanut butter: The star of the sauce, delivering luscious creaminess and rich flavor.
1/4 cup sugar free maple syrup: Balances the spice and salt with natural sweetness without extra sugar.
1 teaspoon sriracha sauce: Adds just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
1/2 cup water: Helps thin the sauce and bring all ingredients together smoothly.
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or cornflour): Thickens the sauce to a perfect creamy consistency.
Sesame seeds (optional): For a toasty crunch and visual appeal.
Chopped peanuts (optional): Adds texture and extra peanutty goodness on top.

How to Make Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking the rice stir fry noodles according to the package instructions. It’s crucial to get them just right—they should be tender but still have a slight bite to hold up under the creamy peanut sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Garlic

Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, then add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Toss in 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and stir it for 15 to 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step unlocks the aromatic base that makes the whole dish sing. Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts in a single layer for even cooking. Let them cook undisturbed until golden brown on one side, about 4 to 5 minutes, then turn to cook through without any pink remaining.

Step 3: Create the Peanut Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce. Stir continuously to help the peanut butter dissolve smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy, glossy mixture with a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy notes.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup water and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth. Pour this blend into the pan and keep stirring gently as the sauce simmers. Within a few minutes, it will thicken to a luscious, creamy consistency that clings beautifully to every noodle and piece of chicken.

Step 5: Combine and Garnish

Finally, add the cooked and drained noodles to the pan, tossing everything together until every bite is coated in rich peanut sauce. For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped peanuts on top. Serve immediately and savor the delicious warmth.

How to Serve Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Chicken Recipe

A white bowl filled with a swirl of brown noodles, mixed with light tan pieces of chicken, topped with chopped green onions and sprinkled with light brown peanuts and sesame seeds. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with some green onion stalks and chopsticks nearby, adding more color to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this dish to the next level. Toasted sesame seeds add a subtle nutty crunch, while chopped peanuts offer bursts of texture and extra peanut flavor. A few fresh cilantro leaves or thinly sliced red chilies can brighten the dish and add visual appeal as well.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light Asian-inspired sides. Consider a crisp cucumber salad, steamed bok choy with garlic, or a refreshing carrot slaw to balance the richness of the peanut sauce. These sides provide contrast in crunch and freshness, making the meal feel complete and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Chicken Recipe family-style in a large bowl for sharing, or plate individual portions over a bed of fresh greens to add a vibrant pop of color. You can even serve it in lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option that’s perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, so the next-day meal might be even more delicious!

Freezing

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and peanut sauce mixture (without noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding freshly cooked noodles.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much during reheating. Avoid microwaving for better texture and flavor retention.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles?

Absolutely! While rice stir fry noodles are traditional and offer the ideal texture, you can substitute with other noodles like udon, soba, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) if you need to avoid gluten completely.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas. Replace the soy sauce with a vegan-certified brand, and all other ingredients remain the same.

How spicy is the dish?

With 1 teaspoon of sriracha, the dish has a gentle kick that complements the sweetness and creaminess. Adjust the amount up or down depending on your spice tolerance.

What’s the best peanut butter to use?

Natural, creamy peanut butter with minimal additives works best to achieve that rich and smooth sauce. Avoid chunky types unless you prefer extra texture in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Chicken Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love. It’s quick enough for busy evenings but feels like a special treat each time. Give it a go—your taste buds will thank you for the creamy, flavorful joy this dish delivers.