Name: Chicken Yaki Udon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Water; 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce; 3 tablespoons Oyster Sauce; 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (or rice vinegar); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar; 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil; 1 pound Ground Chicken; 8 ounces Sliced Mushrooms; 1 whole Bell Pepper (seeded and sliced thin); 1 bunch Scallions (chopped and separated into white and greens); 1 cup Mung Bean Sprouts; 18-20 ounces Vacuum-Packed Udon Noodles

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When I think of the perfect weeknight dinner, Chicken Yaki Udon always stands out. It’s one of those comforting dishes that transports me straight to my favorite Japanese noodle shop. Once, on a rainy evening, I decided to whip up a batch of this delicious stir-fry. With the warm aroma of sesame oil and fresh vegetables filling my kitchen, it felt like a cozy hug in a bowl. Each bite of tender chicken and chewy udon noodles wrapped in a slightly sweet sauce reminded me of the joy of cooking at home.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a splash of lime juice creates a savory flavor that dances on your palate. Plus, the colors from the bell pepper, scallions, and mung bean sprouts make it visually appealing, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. I love how effortlessly this recipe comes together, making it a go-to for last-minute dinners.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why Try This Chicken Yaki Udon

It’s Incredibly Flavorful

One reason I adore Chicken Yaki Udon is the explosion of flavors in every bite. The rich umami from the soy sauce and oyster sauce complements the sweetness of the brown sugar. It’s this perfect balance that makes you keep coming back for more!

Quick and Easy to Prepare

When you’re short on time, this recipe fits the bill. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in under thirty minutes. The simplicity of cooking chicken and vegetables in one pan makes cleanup a breeze too.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is excellent for meal prep. You can make a large batch, portion it out, and enjoy it throughout the week. Just remember to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days!

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about Chicken Yaki Udon is its versatility. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Want to add some broccoli? Go for it! Prefer tofu instead of chicken? That works too!

A Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I serve Chicken Yaki Udon, my family and friends rave about it. It’s become a staple at gatherings because it appeals to everyone. Even kids love it! The playful noodles and vibrant colors make it exciting for them.

Healthy and Satisfying

This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also nourishing. With fresh vegetables and lean protein, it offers a well-rounded meal that satisfies your hunger without weighing you down.

What You Need for Chicken Yaki Udon

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making a delicious Chicken Yaki Udon. Each ingredient plays a vital role in ensuring the dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. The key players here include fresh vegetables, savory sauces, and of course, udon noodles. Together, they create a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

¾ cup water
3 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor.
3 tablespoons oyster sauce – Brings a savory sweetness to the sauce.
1 tablespoon lime juice or rice vinegar – Introduces a tangy kick.
1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances the salty elements.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – Provides a rich, nutty flavor.
1 pound ground chicken – The main protein source, keeping it hearty.
8 ounces sliced mushrooms – Adds earthiness and texture.
1 bell pepper, seeded and sliced thin – For a crunchy texture and sweetness.
1 bunch scallions, chopped and separated into white and greens – Enhances flavor and presentation.
1 cup mung bean sprouts – Adds crunch and freshness.
18-20 ounces vacuum-packed udon noodles – The star of the dish, chewy and satisfying.

How to Make Chicken Yaki Udon

Making Chicken Yaki Udon is a straightforward process that yields tasty results. Let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together!

In a small bowl, combine the water, soy sauce, oyster sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar to create the noodle sauce. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Prepare the vegetables by removing the seeds from the bell pepper and slicing it into thin strips. Take the scallions, chop them into one-inch segments, and separate the whites from the greens. If your mushrooms need slicing, do so now.
Set a large wok or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil once the pan is hot. This will give your vegetables a deliciously nutty flavor.
Once the oil shimmers, add the scallion whites, mushrooms, and bell pepper strips. Stir-fry the vegetables for three to four minutes until they are mostly cooked but still vibrant.
Transfer the stir-fried vegetables to a holding plate. Then, add the ground chicken to the pan. With a wooden spoon, break the chicken into small pieces as it cooks. Aim for a uniform brown color.
Once the chicken is well browned, open the packets of udon noodles and add them directly to the pan.
Pour the prepared sauce over the top of the noodles. Carefully fold the chicken and sauce over the noodles until they loosen enough to pull apart. Avoid breaking the noodles; instead, gently tug and fold to separate them.
As the noodles begin to separate, return the stir-fried vegetables to the pan. Toss everything well to combine, then add in the mung bean sprouts and the green parts of the scallions. Toss and simmer for another one to two minutes.
When everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Serve the Chicken Yaki Udon immediately, garnished with extra scallions if desired.

Things Worth Knowing

Use a high heat: Stir-frying requires high temperatures to achieve that nice char and flavor in your ingredients.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a large batch, stir-fry in batches to prevent steaming.
Fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables for better texture and flavor.
Adjust the sauce: Feel free to tweak the amount of soy sauce or oyster sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Customization Ideas

One of the fantastic aspects of Chicken Yaki Udon is its flexibility. You can easily adapt this dish to fit your cravings and dietary needs. Here are some customization ideas to consider:

Protein Options: Swap the ground chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add some chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your udon noodles are gluten-free if needed.
Serving Style: Serve over a bed of fresh greens for a lightened-up version or alongside steamed rice.
Make It a Soup: By adding more broth, you can turn this into a comforting noodle soup.

Serving This Chicken Yaki Udon

When it’s time to enjoy your Chicken Yaki Udon, there are multiple ways to present and serve it for maximum satisfaction. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal experience:

Pair it with a side salad: A light salad with sesame dressing complements the rich flavors of the udon.
Enjoy it for lunch or dinner: This dish is perfect any time of day, making it a versatile option for your meal planning.
Serving size: A generous portion can be enough for a filling lunch, or serve smaller portions as part of a larger spread at dinner.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for a quick reheat option.
Seasonal pairings: This dish can be enjoyed year-round but is particularly comforting during colder months.
Special occasions: It’s a great dish to serve during family gatherings or a casual dinner party.

FAQ

Chicken Yaki Udon is a delicious Japanese stir-fried noodle dish that features thick udon noodles, tender chicken, and an array of colorful vegetables. It’s typically seasoned with savory soy sauce and oyster sauce, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal. The dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Yes, Chicken Yaki Udon is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner!

You can customize the vegetables in Chicken Yaki Udon based on your preferences or what you have on hand. While the recipe typically includes bell peppers, scallions, and mung bean sprouts, you can also add carrots, broccoli, or snap peas. Feel free to get creative and mix in your favorite veggies!

Chicken Yaki Udon is not inherently spicy, but you can easily add heat if desired. You can incorporate ingredients like chili flakes or sriracha to give it a kick. Adjust the level of spiciness according to your taste preferences to make it just right for you!

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Yaki Udon is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Japan right to your kitchen. Its combination of tender chicken, chewy noodles, and vibrant vegetables creates a harmonious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next family dinner or gathering; it’s quick, customizable, and absolutely delicious!