12-Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors yet comes together in a flash, this 12-Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles Recipe is going to become your new go-to meal. It’s an incredible combination of tender ground chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and vibrant vegetables, all wrapped up with fragrant spices and that signature Thai kick. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a last-minute lunch, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality goodness without the fuss, making it both satisfying and totally achievable. Get ready to fall in love with every saucy, spicy, and utterly delicious bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this 12-Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles Recipe lies in its wonderfully simple yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a key role—from the creamy peanut butter that creates a luscious sauce, to the fresh baby spinach that adds a fresh pop of color and texture. Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand before you dive in.

• 1 tbsp oil: For sautéing the garlic and chicken to golden, flavorful perfection.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Adds an aromatic punch right at the start.
• 200g/7oz chicken mince (ground chicken): Provides lean protein with a tender texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tsp curry powder: Brings warm, earthy notes that deepen the dish’s flavor.
• 1 1/2 tbsp red curry paste (separated): The heart of the dish’s vibrant heat and complexity.
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce: Adds a subtle umami boost and rich color.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock/broth, low sodium: Balances the sauce while keeping it light and savory.
• 3/4 cup coconut milk (about half a can), full fat: Creates creamy richness and tropical flavor.
• 2 tbsp cider vinegar: Adds brightness and a delicate tang to cut through the richness.
• 3 tbsp peanut butter: The star ingredient that lends the recipe its creamy, nutty character.
• 2 instant ramen or noodle cakes: Quick-cooking noodles that soak up the sauce deliciously (discard the seasoning packets!).
• 2 big handfuls baby spinach: Adds freshness and slight crunch, plus a lovely color contrast.
• 2 tbsp peanuts, finely chopped: For an irresistible crunch topping.
• Fresh coriander/cilantro leaves, roughly chopped: Injects herbal brightness and authentic flair.
• Sriracha or other chili paste (optional): To dial up the heat if you like things spicy.

How to Make 12-Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the garlic

Heat your oil in a medium skillet over high heat — not too big a pan, so the lovely sauce doesn’t disappear too fast. Toss in the minced garlic and cook it for about 20 seconds until it turns golden and fragrant. This first step sets a flavorful base for everything to come.

Step 2: Cook the chicken mince

Next, add the ground chicken straight into the pan. Break it up with your spatula as it cooks, making sure it’s browning evenly. After about 2 minutes, it should mostly change from pink to a soft white, a sign that it’s cooking perfectly and ready for the next flavor boost.

Step 3: Add curry paste, curry powder, and soy sauce

Time for the spices! Stir in 1 tablespoon of red curry paste, the curry powder, and the dark soy sauce. Let these mingle with the chicken for about one minute to deepen their flavors and get that lovely aromatic boost you’re after.

Step 4: Cook the remaining curry paste

Clear a little spot in the center of the pan and add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of red curry paste. Stir and let it cook for 30 seconds to unleash even more fragrant, spicy goodness.

Step 5: Simmer with chicken stock

Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Then turn the heat to medium-high and let it bubble away for about 1 minute. This simmer step helps all those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Add the noodles

Squish your noodle cakes directly into the pan, pushing the chicken aside so the noodles are mostly submerged in the sauce. This method helps the noodles soak up all the delicious liquid as they start cooking.

Step 7: Cook and flip noodles

Let the noodles cook undisturbed for 45 seconds, then flip them over carefully. Cook for another 30 seconds before separating them gently with two wooden spoons. You’ll love that springy, saucy texture.

Step 8: Stir in peanut sauce

Push the noodles to one side again, then pour in the coconut milk, peanut butter, and cider vinegar. Give everything a quick stir to mostly dissolve the peanut butter and create a rich, creamy sauce that coats every strand of noodle.

Step 9: Toss in the spinach

Add those delicious big handfuls of baby spinach and toss everything together for about 30 seconds until the spinach wilts but still looks bright and fresh. This step brightens the dish and adds a wonderful textural contrast.

Step 10: Serve and garnish

Finally, dish out your vibrant noodles into bowls. Sprinkle generously with chopped coriander, peanuts, and a drizzle of Sriracha or chili paste if you’re feeling bold. The combination of textures and flavors here is nothing short of addictive. Enjoy!

How to Serve 12-Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh coriander and chopped peanuts on top doesn’t just look inviting — it adds an herbal lift and satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy noodles. Don’t forget a dollop of Sriracha or chili paste for that fiery finish if you love a little spice.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a standalone meal, but if you want to round things out, consider light and refreshing sides like a cucumber salad or a simple Thai-inspired slaw. These’ll bring a crunchy, cool contrast that balances the creamy richness of the peanut sauce beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your noodles in small bowls topped with lime wedges for zest, or even wrap them in rice paper rolls for a handheld snack with a peanut twist. It’s a great way to show off this recipe’s versatility and impress guests with your culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your second helping just as delicious. Consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

This recipe doesn’t freeze as well because the noodles can become mushy and the spinach soggy. For best results, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately without the noodles or spinach, then combine fresh when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Stir continuously to keep the noodles coated and prevent sticking. It only takes a few minutes to warm through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles instead of instant ramen?

Absolutely! While instant ramen cooks quickly and works perfectly here, you can swap in rice noodles, soba, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the noodles are tender but not overdone.

Is the curry paste very spicy?

Red curry paste usually has moderate heat with a complex mix of spices and herbs. You can adjust the amount to your liking or choose milder versions if you prefer less spice. Remember, the optional Sriracha on top is where you can add extra kick.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Definitely! Substitute chicken mince with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken broth. Make sure your peanut butter and curry paste are vegan-friendly, then follow the same steps for a tasty plant-based version.

What’s the best type of peanut butter to use?

Go for natural or creamy peanut butter without added sugar or salt for the most authentic flavor and smooth sauce texture. Avoid chunky varieties here to keep the noodles silky and well-coated.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Separating the noodles with wooden spoons during cooking, as described in the recipe, helps keep them loose. Also, tossing them quickly with the sauce and spinach ensures each strand stays separated and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This 12-Minute Thai Chicken Peanut Noodles Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making over and over because it’s quick, nourishing, and packed with incredible flavor. Easy enough for a busy night but impressive enough to share with friends, it truly hits all the right notes. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own kitchen staple!

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