Dinner

Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery October 17, 2025October 17, 2025

Introduction

These Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles are a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with bold, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, this dish brings a satisfying kick with every bite. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite protein.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with broad, flat noodles that are glossy and coated in a light brown, slightly oily sauce. The noodles are mixed with small red chili pieces and sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds, adding texture and color. There are also tiny green herb bits scattered throughout, giving a fresh touch. The noodles are piled high in the bowl, twisting and overlapping each other, with a few chili pieces standing out on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz rice noodles
2 tablespoons neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Fresh cilantro or Thai basil, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them well and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in the soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly with the sauce. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to warm through.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat. Top the noodles with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro or Thai basil. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add cooked shrimp, tofu, or sliced chicken to the stir-fry.
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the chili garlic sauce and red pepper flakes.
Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Swap maple syrup with honey for a slightly different sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking.