If you’re craving a cozy noodle bowl with a little heat and a lot of flavor – this Spicy Peanut Chicken Udon Bowl is the move. It’s creamy, spicy, salty, and a little sweet from the hot honey… basically the perfect combo.
The sauce is loaded with garlic, ginger, and tamari, tossed with juicy chicken thighs and silky udon noodles that soak up every drop. You can throw in whatever veggies you’ve got on hand, and the best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
- Big takeout flavor – homemade version. You’ll skip the delivery fee and the mystery ingredients.
- Creamy peanut sauce with a kick. The hot honey and red pepper flakes bring just the right amount of heat.
- Hearty and balanced. Chicken, noodles, veggies, and sauce – everything you need in one bowl.
- Weeknight easy. Ready in 30 minutes and uses pantry staples.
Spicy Peanut Chicken Udon Bowls (Better Than Takeout)
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes560
kcalIngredients
4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2–3 packs udon noodles (fresh or frozen)
1 cup stir-fry veggies (like bell pepper, broccoli, or snap peas)
1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice level)
2 tbsp tamari (or soy sauce)
1 tbsp hot honey
3 tbsp peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
¼ cup chicken broth (plus more for loosening sauce if needed)
Optional: lime wedges, chopped peanuts, or green onion for topping
Directions
- Cook the chicken: In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in tamari, hot honey, peanut butter, and a splash of chicken broth. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Combine it all: Slice the cooked chicken and add it back into the sauce. Toss to coat and let it simmer on low for a few minutes.
- Cook the noodles: Boil the udon noodles in chicken broth until tender. Drain and add them straight into the pan with the sauce and chicken.
- Add the veggies: Toss in your stir-fry vegetables and stir everything together until coated in the spicy peanut sauce.
- Serve: Top with green onion, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of chili oil if you like it extra spicy!
Notes
- Customize it: Try swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu — it’s just as good!
If you make noodle dishes often, I highly recommend this carbon steel wok from Amazon – it heats evenly, gives perfect sear on proteins, and makes tossing noodles a breeze.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead?
You can prep the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but cook the noodles fresh – they’re best when soft and silky.
What if I don’t have udon noodles?
Ramen, rice noodles, or even spaghetti work great here – just don’t skip that sauce!
Can I make it mild?
Of course. Skip the red pepper flakes or hot honey, and it’s still super flavorful.
If you loved this recipe, you’ll definitely want to try my Chicken & Brothy Rice Bowl next – another cozy, Asian-inspired favorite that’s simple and packed with comfort.
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