This Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles is a bold, flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the zest of fresh lime. Tender chicken, silky noodles, and a rich, savory peanut sauce make this meal irresistible. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend treat, this recipe will bring a taste of Southeast Asia to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavor Explosion: A perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and savory notes.
- Versatile: Works well with various proteins or vegetables, making it adaptable to different diets.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A surefire hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken and Noodles:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces rice noodles or linguine
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- For the Peanut-Lime Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/3 cup warm water (to thin the sauce as needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Peanut-Lime Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and red pepper flakes. Gradually add water until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the bell pepper and shredded carrots. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the peanut-lime sauce. Toss to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
- Add crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for extra texture.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an additional citrusy kick.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Add snap peas, baby spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended as the noodles and sauce may lose their texture.
FAQ
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peanut-lime sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Combine with freshly cooked noodles before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use other nut butters?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can be used as substitutes for peanut butter.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick. Adjust the amount or omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. What noodles work best for this recipe?
Rice noodles, linguine, or even spaghetti work well in this dish.
