Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 tsp salt

2 tbsp vegetable oil

125g / 4 oz medium egg noodles (chow mein noodles)

1 tbsp ginger, grated

4 cloves garlic, grated or crushed

1/4 head cabbage, sliced thinly (about 1.5 cups)

1 large carrot, julienned

3 green onions, cut into 2 inch pieces

1 tbsp sesame seeds

2 tbsp smooth peanut butter, heaped

3 tbsp hot water

1 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp dark soy sauce

2 tbsp hoisin sauce

1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

1 tsp dried chilli flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, hot water, sesame oil, dark soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and dried chilli flakes. Set this peanut sauce aside until needed.

Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan. Season the chicken with salt, then stir-fry it until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 4: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Stir-fry the grated ginger and garlic for just a few seconds until fragrant. Then add the julienned carrots and sliced cabbage. Continue stir-frying over high heat for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly browned but still crisp.

Step 5: Return the cooked noodles and chicken to the wok. Add the green onions and pour the peanut sauce over all the ingredients. Toss everything together well to ensure even coating.

Step 6: Sprinkle the dish with sesame seeds and additional sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by Chinese chilli oil for an extra spicy kick.

Tips & Variations

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, or substitute with almond butter if preferred.

Add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more color and nutrition.

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian-friendly sauces.

If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the dried chilli flakes and serve chilli oil on the side.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, you can substitute the medium egg noodles with rice noodles, soba noodles, or even spaghetti if needed. Adjust cooking times according to the noodle type.

How spicy is this dish?

The dish has a mild to medium heat level from the dried chilli flakes and optional chilli oil, which can be adjusted to taste or omitted for a milder flavor.