After a long day filled with chaos, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I discovered the magic of one-pot meals, especially this One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles recipe. The very first time I whipped it up, the rich aroma of sizzling chicken and the sweet scent of teriyaki sauce filled my kitchen, instantly transforming my mood.
This dish is a game changer—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but dread the pile of dishes waiting for you afterward. In less than 30 minutes, you can toss together juicy chicken, tender noodles, and vibrant veggies, all simmered in that deliciously sweet-savory glaze.
What I love most is how versatile this recipe is, allowing for a myriad of customization options to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you’re in the mood for extra veggies or want to switch up the protein, this meal has you covered. Let’s dive into the details and bring some excitement back to your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles
Simplicity at Its Best: Whipping up these delicious One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles requires minimal effort and clean-up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with Flavor: The rich combination of sweet teriyaki sauce and tender chicken will send your taste buds dancing.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out the vegetables or proteins to suit your family’s preferences—there’s no wrong way to make this dish!
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic solution for any hectic evening.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Little ones and adults alike will love this meal—dinner table wins don’t get any easier than this!
For more quick dinner ideas, check our related recipes to keep your culinary adventures thriving!
One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles Ingredients
-
For the Chicken
Chicken – This is the main protein source, and for a lighter option, swap it out for turkey or tofu. -
For the Noodles
Spaghetti (16 oz) – The base of the dish providing heartiness; consider whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for variation. -
For the Vegetables
Green Cabbage (½ shredded) – Adds crunch and essential nutrients; bok choy or broccoli slaw can be used as substitutes.
Carrots (2 shredded) – Bring sweetness and vibrant color; feel free to replace them with bell peppers or snap peas. -
For the Sauce
Soy Sauce (⅔ cup) – Infuses the dish with umami flavor; use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Balances the savory flavors of the teriyaki sauce; honey or maple syrup can also work well.
Ground Mustard (½ tsp) – Adds a tangy kick; Dijon can be a flavorful alternative.
Ground Ginger (1 tsp) – Contributes warmth and spice; fresh ginger offers a more vibrant flavor.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp) – Enhances the savory taste; substituting with fresh minced garlic delivers a robust flavor.
Water (3 ½ cups) – Essential for cooking the noodles and achieving the right sauce consistency. -
For Sautéing
Olive Oil (1 tsp) – Perfect for sautéing chicken and veggies; sesame oil can amplify the flavors if desired. -
For Garnish
Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp) – Brings texture and a visual appeal; optional but adds a lovely final touch.
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on your family’s preferences to create your ideal One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles experience!
How to Make One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles
-
Heat the Oil: In a large pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer, then add cubed chicken. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
-
Add the Vegetables: Toss in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until they soften, adding a lovely crunch to your dish.
-
Stir in the Sauce: Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, ground mustard, ginger, and garlic powder. Mix well to coat the chicken and vegetables in that irresistible teriyaki flavor.
-
Combine Noodles and Water: Add in the spaghetti and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, reducing heat once boiling. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, gently stirring occasionally until the noodles are tender.
-
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture. Let sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with sriracha for a touch of heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One-Pot Teriyaki Noodle Variations
Customize your One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles for a delightful twist on this beloved dish!
-
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or beef for a different flavor profile. The seafood offers a light touch, while beef adds heartiness.
-
Vegetable Boost: Experiment with additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or snow peas to enhance nutrition and color. Each veggie brings its unique crunch and taste.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta instead of spaghetti to accommodate dietary needs. The texture will still be delightful, soaking up the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
-
Sweetness Adjust: Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a lover of natural sweeteners. This will impart a subtle twist without losing that signature teriyaki sweetness.
-
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a touch of heat. It’s an exciting way to elevate your dish if you’re chasing that spicy flavor!
-
Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs, like basil or cilantro, for a refreshing flavor hit just before serving. These bright notes can uplift any meal and enhance the overall experience.
-
Creamy Element: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or tahini for a richer, creamier sauce. This adds depth and a nutty flavor element that pairs wonderfully with teriyaki.
-
Vegan Adaptation: For a plant-based meal, swap chicken for tofu and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Your taste buds won’t even miss the meat!
What to Serve with One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles?
Complete your meal with these delicious and complementary options that will elevate your dinner experience.
-
Steamed Broccoli: The crunch and mild flavor of steamed broccoli add a nice contrast to the rich teriyaki noodles, making it a nutritious side. Its vibrant green color also brightens the plate.
-
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing offers a crisp and cool balance to the rich flavors of the noodles, cleansing the palate.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: For a comforting touch, serve warm garlic breadsticks. The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs beautifully with the savory teriyaki, perfect for dipping.
-
Miso Soup: This traditional Japanese soup brings a warming effect and complements the flavors in the teriyaki sauce, creating a harmonious dining experience.
-
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal berries or citrus can provide a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory dish and cleanses the palate.
-
Iced Green Tea: Opt for a lovely iced green tea; its earthy tones offer a refreshing drink that pairs well with the flavors and enhances your meal.
-
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, treat yourself to an airy chocolate mousse. The rich chocolate will be a delightful end to your flavorful dinner, leaving everyone satisfied.
Craft your perfect dinner by mixing and matching these side dishes and beverages, turning your one-pan teriyaki chicken and noodles into a complete culinary experience!
Storage Tips for One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles
-
Fridge: Store any leftover One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while preventing the noodles from drying out.
-
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Make sure the noodles and chicken are completely cooled before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
-
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored noodles, reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to help refresh the sauce and prevent sticking.
-
Refrigerator Notes: If you’re storing the noodles in the fridge, keep the sesame seeds on the side to maintain their crunch until serving!
Expert Tips for One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles
-
Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and to enhance the dish’s flavor.
-
Monitor Noodle Cooking: Keep an eye on the noodles as they cook to prevent them from becoming mushy. Adjust the water if necessary for optimal texture.
-
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker teriyaki sauce, simmer the dish uncovered for a few minutes to reduce excess liquid for that perfect consistency.
-
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add extra vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your taste, but avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
-
Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the sesame seeds! They add delightful texture and presentation—just a sprinkle transforms your dish into a feast.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and store the vegetables (cabbage and carrots) in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights. Additionally, the chicken can be marinated in the soy sauce mixture for up to 24 hours for extra flavor. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the chicken, add in the prepped veggies, stir in the noodles and water, and follow the remaining cooking instructions. This way, you’ll still enjoy a comforting and delicious meal that’s just as delightful as if made fresh!
One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
For this One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work wonderfully as they cook quickly and stay moist. If you prefer, you can also swap chicken with turkey or tofu for a lighter option!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact while preventing the noodles from drying out. If you’re feeling creative, use the leftovers in a stir-fry the next day!
Can I freeze One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles?
Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Allow the noodles and chicken to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
What if my noodles get mushy?
To prevent your noodles from becoming mushy, keep a close eye on the cooking time. Start checking for doneness at around the 10-minute mark. If you notice they’re getting too soft, remove them from the heat immediately. You can also adjust the amount of water based on your cooking style—a little less might do the trick!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious about the soy sauce, as it contains gluten. You can easily substitute with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Additionally, the recipe can be customized to include or exclude certain vegetables to cater to personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
What vegetables can I use if I don’t have cabbage or carrots?
The beauty of this One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles recipe lies in its versatility! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust their cooking times slightly based on how firm or tender you like them, adding them during the sauté stage for best results!
One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles: Quick, Tasty Family Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Toss in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until they soften.
- Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, ground mustard, ginger, and garlic powder. Mix well to coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Add spaghetti and water. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.