Name: Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz stir-fry rice noodles; 3/4- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (*cut into bite size pieces); 1 sm bunch asparagus (*ends cut off & cut into 1/3's {about 2 cups cut}); 1/2 med brown onion (*cut into strips {about 1 cup cut}); 4 oz shiitake mushrooms (*cut into bite size pieces {about 2 cups cut}); 1 med red bell pepper (*cut into strips {about 1 1/2 cups cut}); 1 sm bunch green onions (*cut in halfway lengthwise & into 1/3's); 2 lemongrass stalks ({3 tbsp finely chopped}); 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil (*divided in half {+extra for drizzling on noodles}); 2/3 cup chicken broth; 3 tbsp fish sauce; 3 tbsp soy sauce (*Tamari for gluten free); 1 tsp sambal oelek (*produces med heat); 3 tbsp lime juice {1-2 limes}; 1 1/2 inch piece fresh ginger (*peeled & grated {1 1/2 tbsp}); 2 lg garlic cloves (*crushed or minced); 2 tsp brown sugar ( *packed); 2 tsp cornstarch (*or arrowroot); sesame seeds for garnish ( *optional)

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Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Stir Fry is the ultimate healthy comfort food. Full of vitamin packed veggies, aromatic lemongrass and ginger. All nestled in a bed of rice noodles just waiting to be devoured. This dish is on the same level as your favorite pad thai.

This post may contain affiliate links which I earn a small portion in sales if a purchase is made. Rest assured though, it is never at any additional cost to you.

We have all been there, you know that place of promising ourselves only healthy eating from here on out. And then it hits us…That stressful encounter at work, the car breaking down, the unexpected bill that is more then your mortgage. All you want to do is curl up on the couch and eat a delivery pizza and ice cream. Screw the veggies, you want comfort food and you want it STAT! Raise your hand if you understand this feeling a thousand times over.??

Of the many lessons I learned in the almost 10 years of counseling clients is healthy comfort food is a must. Whether your goal is weight loss or just overall healthy eating, if you don’t like what you are eating, you will soon crash and burn. In addition, sometimes you need a meal that looks like decadence on a plate but is actually good for you. That is where this Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Stir Fry comes to the rescue. This recipe is packed with veggies, clean ingredients and gluten free options. A quick trip to the grocery store and 30 mins in the kitchen you will have healthy decadence on a plate.

Tips for Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Stir Fry:

“Lemongrass and sambal oelek, WHAT!?!?!?” You are probably cursing me right now and I understand, but trust me on this one. These two ingredients are easier to find and use then they appear. They add a depth of flavor that makes this Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Stir Fry so incredibly yummy.

Sambal Oelek is similar to Sriracha but is used more for cooking than Sriracha. It is a combination of different chilies that are ground and add heat to the dish. You can actually see the chili pepper seeds, so a little goes a long way for delicate taste buds. If you are more comfortable with Sriracha feel free to interchange it, but why not give something new a try? For those wanting to stay on the organic side with their ingredients check out this Organic Sambal Oelek. (affiliate)
The glorious herb lemongrass. It is so mysterious to many but it actually is extremely easy to use.
From top to bottom and left to right. 1) Cut bulb end (knob side) off. 2) Cut thinner end off revealing a 4-5 inch piece. 3) Remove tougher outer layers. 4) Hit with a meat tenderizer or rolling pin. 5) Finely chop.
After much experimentation Annie Chun’s Pad Thai Rice Noodles ended up being my favorite. They hold their shape beautifully, are long, lacy and taste great. Just follow the directions on the package. If you decide to prepare the rice noodles first, remember to rinse with cold water after draining and then toss with a little sesame oil. If you have a helper, even better. Put them in charge of soaking the noodles in boiling water at about the same time you start the stir fry. Both should be done at about the same time. Place both in a large mixing bowl and toss. (affiliate)
The secret of any stir fry is having a hot wok, cooking in smaller batches and tossing the entire time. With this Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Stir Fry cook the lemongrass and chicken first and set aside. With the veggies you will be breaking the rules a bit but I promise it will work out. Get the wok nice and hot again with the sesame oil and stir fry the asparagus for about 2-3 mins. Then add the brown onion and cook for about 1 min. Add the mushrooms and cook for 2 mins. Then in goes the red bell pepper and it cooks for about 2 mins. Last veggie, the green onions with about 2 more mins of cooking. Add the chicken back in. Stir the sauce and add to the wok. Continue tossing and cooking for about 2 mins or until sauce thickens. At this point the wok will be full but because of the order in which it was stir fried, everything comes together beautifully. (affiliate)
Cut and prepare all the vegetables and chicken in advance for a quick and efficient cooking process.

What to Serve With this Recipe

Fresh Herbs- Garnish with cilantro, Thai basil, or mint for added freshness.
Crunchy Element- Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch.
Soy Sauce on the Table- Serve with extra soy sauce or lime wedges on the side for individuals to adjust flavors according to their liking.

Variations of the Recipe

Seafood Twist- Substitute chicken for shrimp or scallops for a delicious seafood version.
Vegetable Medley- Create a vibrant vegetable stir fry by omitting the chicken and doubling up on your favorite vegetables such as snap peas, baby corn, or water chestnuts.
Spicy Kick- Increase the sambal oelek or add red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicier kick.

How to Store

Refrigeration- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Freezing- While noodles may change texture upon freezing, the stir fry can be frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular onions instead of brown onions?

Yes, you can substitute yellow, white or red onions if needed.

Can I use a different type of noodle for this stir fry?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for stir-fry rice noodles, you can use your favorite noodles, such as lo mein, pad Thai, udon or ramen noodles based on personal preference.

How spicy is this dish?

The amount of sambal oelek used produces a medium level of heat. Adjust to your taste.

Is it necessary to use shiitake mushrooms, or can I substitute them?

Feel free to experiment with mushroom varieties. Shiitake mushrooms add a unique flavor, but you can substitute with button mushrooms or any other preferred type.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute tofu or your favorite meat alternative for the chicken, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.

How crucial is toasting sesame oil before using it?

Toasting sesame oil enhances its flavor. While it’s not mandatory, toasting adds a rich nuttiness to the dish. Be cautious not to overheat it, as it has a low smoke point.