I’m the proud parent of two college kids, and let me tell you, finding a meal that they can make that’s both easy and edible feels like stumbling upon a buried treasure. When they requested my help for dinner ideas, and here’s the key, one without any vegetables, I knew instantly that noodles, high heat, and diced chicken was the way to go.
Simplicity in a Skillet:
College food – where the taste is an adventure, and mystery meat is a rite of passage! My kids had their fill of campus cuisine midway through their 1st year. Yet, with the chaos of classes, assignments, and extracurriculars, there’s little room for culinary masterpieces. That’s precisely why this Easy Garlic Chicken and Noodles recipe was born.
This dish is a breeze to prepare, even for those who might not be seasoned chefs. All you need are basic ingredients like diced chicken, olive oil, garlic powder, and a few sauces that add a delightful kick to your taste buds. Plus it includes chow mein noodles. What college kid doesn’t love those?
Why Does Garlic Chicken work for College Students?
Budget-Friendly:
- Let’s face it; college students are often on a tight budget (and so are the parents!) This recipe won’t break the bank. The ingredients are affordable and readily available at most grocery stores. Plus, you can make this dish in bulk and have leftovers for days.
Flavor Explosion:
- College students often crave meals that are packed with flavor. This garlic chicken and noodles recipe delivers just that.
A Satisfying Meal:
- We know college students need meals that keep them full and fueled for their busy lives. This dish is not only delicious but also substantial. The diced chicken adds a protein punch, while the chow mein noodles offer a comforting and filling base.
Dorm-Room Friendly:
- If you’re a student living in a dorm with limited kitchen facilities, fear not! This recipe is tailored for college life. All you need is a skillet or a basic stovetop, and you’re good to go. No fancy equipment or appliances required.
Quick and Time-Efficient:
- This garlic chicken and noodles recipe can be prepared in a flash. From marinating the chicken to tossing it all together in the skillet, you’ll have a satisfying meal in less time than it takes to queue up for cafeteria food.
How to Make Garlic Chicken and Noodle Bowl
Creating this delectable Garlic Chicken and Noodle Bowl is as straightforward as it gets.
- Cook the chow mein noodles and set aside.
- Marinate the diced chicken in a flavorful mixture of spices and sauces.
- Sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet until cooked through.
- Combine the cooked chicken and noodles in the skillet, where they’ll mingle with a fragrant garlic and ginger-infused sauce.
YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED:
FAQ: Can I Add Vegetables to the Garlic Chicken and Noodle Bowl?
- Absolutely! If you’d like to incorporate vegetables into your Garlic Chicken and Noodle Bowl, consider adding a colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, or carrots. Simply stir-fry these veggies along with the chicken for a couple of minutes before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.
FAQ: Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
- Of course! The level of spiciness in this dish is customizable. To make it less spicy, simply reduce the amount of sriracha sauce or omit it altogether. You can also serve extra sriracha on the side for those who enjoy more heat.
FAQ: Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
- Yes, you can. While chow mein noodles work wonderfully in this recipe, you can substitute them with other types of noodles like spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles if that’s what you have available.
FAQ: How Long Does Leftover Garlic Chicken and Noodle Bowl Keep?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to reheat them thoroughly before enjoying.
FAQ: Can I Make a Vegetarian Version of This Dish?
- Yes! You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the diced chicken with tofu or tempeh. Additionally, you can add a variety of stir-fried vegetables to create a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian Garlic Vegetable and Noodle Bowl.
more one skillet easy dinner ideas:
- One-Skillet Cheesy Turkey and Pasta: A comforting twist on a classic favorite.
- Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet: A quick and cheesy family-friendly dinner option.
- The Perfect Sloppy Joes: A timeless and easy-to-make comfort food favorite.
GARLIC CHICKEN AND NOODLE BOWL
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Garlic Chicken and Noodle Bowl
Description
Indulge in a flavorful Garlic Chicken and Noodle Bowl, perfect for busy college students and adults alike. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Boneless Chicken breast, diced
- 2 Tbsp. Olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 3 Tbsp. Aminos, Tamari (or low sodium Soy sauce)
- 2 Tbsp. Hoisin sauce
- 1 Tbsp. Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 Cup Chicken broth
- 8 oz. Chow mein noodles
- 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Toss the chicken to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour for a more intense flavor.
2. Cook the Noodles:
- Boil a large pot of water. Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles, rinse them with cold water, and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of onion powder. Cook for another minute.
- Add 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon of sriracha sauce, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and stir to coat the chicken thoroughly. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Add the cooked chow mein noodles to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until they are well coated and heated.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it spicier, you can add more sriracha sauce.
- Serve the garlic chicken and noodles hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
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