Crisp, fragrant garlic infused in chili oil clings to every strand of perfectly cooked noodle. This is the essence of these quick and easy chili garlic noodles, a dish that balances fiery spice with savory umami and a hint of sweetness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The quick cooking time allows you to have a satisfying meal on the table in under 20 minutes.
These noodles are perfect for a busy weeknight when you crave something bold and flavorful but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar creates a deeply satisfying sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.
Why you’ll love this Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles in 20 Minutes
- Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The perfect balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
- Customizable: Add your favorite protein or vegetables.
- Enjoy a comforting and satisfying bowl of chili garlic noodles.
- Easily adjust the spice level to your preference.
- A great way to use up leftover cooked noodles.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, linguine, or ramen)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (or chili flakes to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 green onion, chopped, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Chili garlic noodles makes every moment feel velvety. Ingredient Tip: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the oyster sauce. You can also use tamari in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
How to make Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles in 20 Minutes
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Infuse the Oil
While the noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies (or chili flakes) and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Burnt garlic will make the dish bitter.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, sugar, ground ginger, and water. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the garlic and chilies. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. If you are looking for a delicious dessert recipe, check out this fried strawberry cheesecake recipe.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped green onion and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the garlic and chilies in a single layer to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking: Start with a small amount of chili and add more to taste.
- Cook noodles al dente: This ensures they hold their shape and texture when tossed with the sauce.
- Garnish generously: Fresh green onions and sesame seeds add visual appeal and enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These chili garlic noodles are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides and proteins. Serve them with steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. For an extra kick, try topping them with a fried egg. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy these sweet chili chicken wraps.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili garlic noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these noodles?
Freezing is not recommended as the noodles may become mushy upon thawing.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Omit the oyster sauce. The remaining ingredients are naturally vegan.
Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. Start with a small amount of chili and add more to taste. You can also use chili flakes instead of fresh chilies for a milder flavor.
These spicy chili garlic noodles are a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that is sure to become a weeknight favorite. The balance of spice, savory umami, and subtle sweetness makes this dish incredibly satisfying, and its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking. We encourage you to try this recipe and leave a comment below sharing your experience!
Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles in 20 Minutes
These chili garlic noodles are a flavor explosion! A quick and easy weeknight dinner ready in just 20 minutes. The perfect balance of spicy, savory, and garlicky goodness coats every strand of noodle, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. This recipe is highly customizable – add your favorite protein or vegetables for a complete and delicious dish. Get ready for a flavor sensation that will have you craving more! You can adjust the spice level to your preference, making it perfect for everyone.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, linguine, or ramen)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (or chili flakes to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 green onion, chopped, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies (or chili flakes) and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, sugar, ground ginger, and water. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the garlic and chilies. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Garnish with chopped green onion and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust the amount of chili to your preference. For a vegetarian option, omit the oyster sauce. You can add protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg