Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely. Thighs stay extra juicy—just cook them a bit longer until done.

What noodles work best?

Anything you love. Rice noodles, soba, ramen-style noodles, even whole wheat spaghetti in a pinch. The best noodle is the one already in your pantry.

How do I make it less spicy?

Use less chili paste (start with a small amount), and add more soy sauce or a splash of water to mellow it out.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free noodles and make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free (or use tamari).

How do I store leftovers?

Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They reheat nicely in a skillet with a splash of water, or in the microwave (stir halfway through so the noodles don’t get grumpy).

7 Irresistible Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodle Bowls

Description

These Spicy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Noodle Bowls are a quick, saucy weeknight dinner—tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and noodles tossed in a bold garlic-chili glaze.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz noodles (rice noodles, soba, lo mein, or spaghetti)
2 tbsp olive oil
4–6 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
4 cups broccoli florets
1/3 cup soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
1–2 tbsp chili paste (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, lime wedges

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Instructions

Cook noodles: Boil noodles according to package directions until just shy of done. Drain and set aside.
Heat oil: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sauté garlic: Add garlic and cook 30 seconds, just until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
Cook chicken: Add sliced chicken and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring, until browned and cooked through.
Add broccoli: Stir in broccoli and cook 3–4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
Sauce it up: Add soy sauce and chili paste. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.
Combine: Add drained noodles and toss well until coated and heated through (1–2 minutes).
Season + serve: Taste and season with salt/pepper if needed. Serve hot with your favorite garnish.

Notes

Spice level: Start with 1 tbsp chili paste, then add more at the end if you want extra heat.

Sauce too thick? Add 1–3 tbsp water (or broth) and toss until glossy.

Sauce too salty? Use low-sodium soy sauce or add a splash of water + extra broccoli.

Make it a fridge-cleanout meal: Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms are all great here.

Protein swap: Chicken thighs work too—just cook a few minutes longer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 620 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 1300 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 73 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 46 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg