Name: Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: Kosher salt, to taste; 8 oz. thick rice noodles; 1/2 cup no-sugar-added creamy peanut butter; 3 tbsp. sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp. tamari or soy sauce; 1 tbsp. sriracha; 1/2 tsp. finely grated lime zest; 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup warm water; 2 small or 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz.), chopped into 1/2″ pieces; 2 tbsp. vegetable or canola oil; 1 small red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 3 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp. finely chopped peeled ginger; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1/2 cup small fresh basil leaves; 1/3 cup roasted salted peanuts, finely chopped; Lime wedges, for serving

Jump to Recipe

If you have been searching for a dish that combines rich, tangy flavors with comforting noodles, you are about to meet your new obsession: Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles. This recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy peanut sauce with a lively lime kick, and perfectly cooked rice noodles, all tossed with fresh herbs and crunchy peanuts for a delightful texture play. The balance of sweet chili, tangy lime, and spicy sriracha makes every bite exciting and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress your friends, this Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles will have your taste buds singing and your kitchen smelling incredible.

Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but work harmoniously to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the silky peanut butter providing richness to the fresh herbs that lighten and brighten the entire dish.

Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors without overpowering.
8 oz. thick rice noodles: They soak up the sauce beautifully and provide a satisfyingly chewy base.
1/2 cup no-sugar-added creamy peanut butter: Gives the dish its signature creamy, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
3 tbsp. sweet chili sauce: Adds a perfect balance of sweetness and gentle heat.
2 tbsp. tamari or soy sauce: Brings umami depth and saltiness to the sauce.
1 tbsp. sriracha: Injects a lively kick of spice that wakes up your palate.
1/2 tsp. finely grated lime zest: Offers a citrusy aroma that lifts the richness.
2 tbsp. fresh lime juice: Brightens the sauce with tart vibrancy and freshness.
2 tbsp. vegetable or canola oil: For cooking the chicken tenderly without drying it out.
2 small or 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz.), chopped into 1/2″ pieces: The source of tender protein that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a pop of color and a subtle sweetness with a nice crunch.
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic undertones.
3 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced: The white parts cook into sweetness while the green parts add fresh brightness as a garnish.
2 tbsp. finely chopped peeled ginger: Brings zesty warmth and a subtle bite.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves: Adds herbal brightness and freshness at the finish.
1/2 cup small fresh basil leaves: Offers a mild, sweet aromatic lift to the dish.
1/3 cup roasted salted peanuts, finely chopped: Provides delightful crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.
Lime wedges, for serving: A squeeze of fresh lime juice intensifies the citrus notes right before you dig in.

How to Make Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles

Step 1: Cook the noodles

Begin by bringing a medium pot of water to a boil, generously seasoning it with kosher salt. Add your thick rice noodles and stir gently to keep them from sticking together. Once tender after about 13 to 15 minutes of soaking, drain them in a colander and give them a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the texture just right.

Step 2: Whisk the peanut-lime sauce

While the noodles are soaking, prepare your luscious sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, sweet chili sauce, tamari, sriracha, fresh lime zest, lime juice, a pinch of salt, and warm water. Whisk everything together until completely smooth and velvety. This sauce is the heart of your Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles, so take a moment to savor the aroma and texture.

Step 3: Cook the chicken and vegetables

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken, seasoning it with a bit of salt, and cook, stirring often, until the edges turn lightly golden and the chicken is nearly cooked through—about 4 minutes. Toss in the red bell pepper slices, garlic, white parts of the scallions, and chopped ginger. Add a little extra salt if needed, reduce the heat to medium, and cook until the peppers soften tenderly, around 3 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing right about now.

Step 4: Combine everything

Add the drained noodles directly to the skillet with your chicken and veggies. Toss thoroughly to combine every bite with the savory goodness. Remove the skillet from heat, then pour your prepared peanut-lime sauce over the noodles and toss again. This ensures every noodle and piece of chicken is luxuriously coated in that creamy, tangy sauce you love.

Step 5: Garnish and assemble

Divide the noodles among serving bowls. Top generously with the green parts of the scallions, fresh cilantro, basil leaves, and a sprinkle of finely chopped roasted peanuts. Don’t forget to serve the lime wedges on the side, inviting everyone to add that final burst of citrus to their bowls. This finishing touch truly elevates the Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles from delicious to unforgettable.

How to Serve Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes are essential for this dish, adding vibrant contrasts in flavor and texture. The green scallion parts bring a crisp mild onion flavor, while fresh cilantro and basil infuse brightness and herbal complexity. Chopped roasted peanuts add a wonderful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy peanut sauce. Don’t skip the lime wedges, as a fresh squeeze right before eating balances the richness and adds that zesty pop.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is rich and satisfying on its own, light and fresh side dishes work best. Think simple cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar, or a crisp green papaya salad to bring additional crunch and tang. Steamed or stir-fried greens like bok choy or spinach lightly seasoned with garlic also complement the flavors while keeping the meal balanced and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles even more special, serve it family-style on a large platter with all the garnishes in small bowls for guests to add as they please. For a fun twist, wrap the flavorful chicken and noodles in lettuce leaves for an interactive, handheld option. You can also drizzle extra peanut sauce on top or sprinkle with chili flakes for those who crave more heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garnishes separate if possible to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to eat, toss everything together again for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

Freezing this dish isn’t ideal because the fresh herbs and noodles can lose their texture after thawing. If you must freeze, store only the cooked chicken in sauce separately and prepare fresh noodles and garnishes when ready to serve. This way you preserve the quality and flavor integrity.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm the noodles and chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving directly as it can cause the peanut sauce to separate and the noodles to become mushy. Once heated through, toss in fresh herbs and peanuts for that freshly made vibe.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle for this dish?

Absolutely! While thick rice noodles are recommended for their texture and ability to hold the sauce, you can also use other options like udon, soba, or even spaghetti if needed. Just cook according to package instructions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check that your other ingredients like sweet chili sauce are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

How spicy is the Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles?

The sriracha and sweet chili sauce add a moderate heat level that can be adjusted to your preference. Feel free to add more sriracha for extra spice or reduce it for a milder dish.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for tofu or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and snap peas. The creamy peanut-lime sauce is versatile and just as delicious without meat.

What is the best way to chop the peanuts?

Use a sharp knife or pulse lightly in a food processor for evenly chopped peanuts. You want small pieces that add crunch without overpowering each bite.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles is truly a stunning dish that delivers on flavor, texture, and ease. Its harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes makes it a standout in any meal rotation. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen too!

Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 28 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, smooth peanut butter sauce, and fresh herbs with zesty lime notes. Featuring thick rice noodles tossed in a creamy, slightly spicy peanut and chili sauce, complemented by crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro and basil, it makes a perfect quick and satisfying meal with an Asian-inspired flair.

Instructions

Cook the noodles: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and generously season it with kosher salt. Add the rice noodles and stir gently to prevent sticking. Remove the pot from heat and let the noodles soak until tender, about 13 to 15 minutes. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the peanut-lime sauce: While the noodles cook, in a medium bowl whisk together the peanut butter, sweet chili sauce, tamari or soy sauce, sriracha, finely grated lime zest, fresh lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup warm water until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Cook the chicken and vegetables: Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken, season with salt, and cook while stirring frequently until the chicken is lightly golden in spots and almost cooked through, approximately 4 minutes. Then add the sliced red bell pepper, garlic, white parts of the scallions, and chopped ginger. Season with additional salt if needed. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the peppers are tender, about 3 more minutes.
Toss noodles with chicken and sauce: Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Toss well to combine everything evenly. Remove the skillet from heat and pour the reserved peanut-lime sauce over the noodles and chicken. Toss thoroughly to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Serve and garnish: Divide the noodles and chicken mixture among serving bowls. Top each bowl with the green parts of the scallions, fresh cilantro, fresh basil leaves, and finely chopped roasted salted peanuts. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra fresh citrus kick.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, ensure to use tamari, which is gluten-free, instead of regular soy sauce.
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the sriracha.
Rice noodles can be substituted with other gluten-free noodles like glass noodles or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb variant.
Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil add freshness; don’t skip them!
Sweet chili sauce adds a balanced sweetness and heat; adjust amount to taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-inspired