Description
Szechuan Chicken Noodles are a deliciously spicy noodle dish inspired by the flavors of Szechuan cuisine, originating from the Szechuan province of China. Known for its bold, aromatic, and tangy flavors, Szechuan cooking uses ingredients like Szechuan peppercorns, chili oil, and hoisin sauce to create dishes with a signature spicy kick and mouth-numbing sensation. The noodles in this recipe are stir-fried with marinated chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich Szechuan-style sauce that combines heat, sweetness, and tanginess in every bite. The dish is then garnished with fresh green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts, creating an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce
3 tbsp soy sauce
1½ tbsp rice vinegar or black vinegar
1 tbsp chili oil (adjust for spice preference)
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted & crushed (or ½ tsp ground for milder heat)
1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
For the Noodles & Veggies
8 oz (225 g) noodles (lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti)
1 cup julienned bell peppers (red & green)
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup sliced green onions
1 tbsp sesame oil or neutral oil for stir-frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, toss sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and pepper.
Set aside to marinate while you prep the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Noodles
Boil noodles according to package directions.
Drain and toss with a drizzle of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
3. Make the Szechuan Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, hoisin, sugar, garlic, ginger, peppercorns, and chili flakes.
Taste and adjust — add more vinegar for tang, chili oil for spice, or sugar for balance.
4. Stir-Fry
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add marinated chicken; stir-fry 4–6 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Add bell peppers and carrots; cook another 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
Pour in the Szechuan sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Add cooked noodles and green onions; stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until everything is glossy and well combined.
5. Serve
Garnish with extra green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts.
Serve hot — perfect with cucumber salad or steamed bok choy on the side.
Notes
For extra heat, sprinkle with crushed red pepper or drizzle with Szechuan chili oil before serving. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
Keywords: Szechuan noodles, spicy chicken noodles, Szechuan chicken stir-fry
