Saucy Gochujang Noodles with Chicken

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• For the Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• For the Noodles and Stir-fry:
  • 8 oz (225g) noodles (e.g., soba, udon, or rice noodles)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup snap peas or green beans, trimmed
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
   • Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger until smooth. Set aside.
3. Cook the Noodles:
   • Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If they stick together, you can rinse them with cold water and toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
4. Stir-fry the Chicken:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
   • Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Stir-fry the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
   • Add the bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas (or green beans). Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine Everything:
   • Reduce the heat to medium and return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
   • Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly.
   • Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through and well coated with the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if using.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy your Saucy Gochujang Noodles with Chicken!

Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang according to your taste. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful meal