Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe

Introduction

Yaki Udon is a quick and satisfying Japanese stir-fry featuring thick udon noodles, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables. This dish combines simple ingredients with savory flavors for a perfect weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz udon noodles
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (divided)
• 1 cup boneless chicken breast (sliced)
• 1 cup bell peppers (sliced)
• 1 cup carrots (julienne)
• 2 green onions (chopped)
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat half of the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining sesame oil if needed. Stir-fry bell peppers and carrots for 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
4. Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the udon noodles, soy sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir well to coat everything evenly and heat through.
5. Step 5: Stir in the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of mirin or a pinch of chili flakes while stir-frying.
• Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef for variety.
• Use fresh udon noodles when available, or substitute with thick wheat noodles if needed.
• Add other vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or bok choy for more color and nutrition.

Storage

Store leftover yaki udon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried udon noodles instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to cook them according to the package instructions before stir-frying to achieve the right texture.

Is it necessary to use vegetable broth?

Vegetable broth adds more flavor and moisture, but you can substitute with water or chicken broth if preferred.

Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 95 reviews

This Yaki Udon Noodle recipe is a quick and flavorful Japanese stir-fry featuring tender udon noodles tossed with juicy chicken, crisp bell peppers, carrots, and a savory soy-based sauce. It combines the perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Udon and Protein

• 8 oz udon noodles
• 1 cup boneless chicken breast, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (divided)

Vegetables

• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce and Broth

• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth

Instructions

1. Cook Udon Noodles: Cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and set aside to prevent sticking.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat half a tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and cook until it is browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining sesame oil if needed. Add the sliced bell peppers and julienned carrots. Stir-fry these vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes, cooking them until they become tender yet retain a slight crunch.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the drained udon noodles, low-sodium soy sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well coated and heated evenly through.
5. Add Garlic and Finish: Stir in the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to release its aroma without burning it. Once done, remove the skillet from heat, garnish the dish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables.
• Use fresh udon noodles if available for better texture, but dried noodles work fine as well.
• You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or snap peas depending on your preference.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Ensure not to overcook the vegetables to keep them crisp and colorful.

Keywords: Yaki Udon, udon noodle stir-fry, chicken udon recipe, Japanese noodles, stir-fried udon, quick dinner, easy noodle dish