When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a good stir fry. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory noodles all tossed together with a mouthwatering sauce is simply irresistible. Today, we’re diving into a classic dish with a twist: OLD Kung Pao Chicken Noodle Stir Fry. This recipe is not only packed with flavor but is also quick and easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

There are a few standout reasons why this OLD Kung Pao Chicken Noodle Stir Fry should be a staple in your kitchen. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Second, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Lastly, the balance of flavors and textures—from the tender chicken and crisp vegetables to the delightful crunch of peanuts—makes each bite a culinary delight.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delicious stir fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 pound vermicelli or thin spaghetti
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup rice vinegar
1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Sesame oil, to taste
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2-4 teaspoons red pepper flakes OR 8-12 dried red chilies, deseeded and cut into halves
1 (18 oz.) can sliced water chestnuts, drained
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cups snow peas, ends trimmed and cut in half
5 stalks green onion, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup peanuts, roughly chopped

Hardware & Gadgets

To make the cooking process smooth and efficient, here are the essential tools you’ll need:

Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying due to its high sides and even heat distribution.
Large pot: For boiling the noodles.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for tossing everything together.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping ingredients quickly and safely.

Step-by-Step: OLD Kung Pao Chicken Noodle Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking your vermicelli or thin spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, making sure to toss them with a splash of sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, reduced sodium soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes (or dried chilies). Set this sauce aside for later.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

In your wok or skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more sesame oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the chopped celery, red bell pepper, snow peas, and sliced water chestnuts. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender yet crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, and pour in the sauce. Toss everything together, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly. Stir in the cooked noodles and chopped green onions, mixing until well combined. Let everything heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Add Peanuts and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle in the chopped peanuts for an added crunch. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions or red pepper flakes if desired.

Make It Fit Your Plan

If you’re looking to customize this OLD Kung Pao Chicken Noodle Stir Fry to fit your dietary preferences, consider these options:

Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles.
Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of vermicelli or spaghetti.
Extra Veggies: Add more veggies like mushrooms, broccoli, or baby corn for added nutrition.

Learn from These Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making your OLD Kung Pao Chicken Noodle Stir Fry:

Not marinating the chicken long enough: A good marinade will enhance the flavor and texture of your chicken.
Overcooking the noodles: Make sure to follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy noodles.
Skipping the sesame oil: This ingredient adds a rich, nutty flavor that brings the dish together.
Piling too many ingredients in the pan: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and proper stir-frying.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you happen to have leftovers (though they might not last long!), here’s how to store them:

Allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the flavors and moisture.

Questions People Ask

Can I use other types of meat for this stir fry?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure your meat is fully cooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients and even cook the stir fry a few hours in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving.

What can I substitute for peanuts?

If you’re allergic to peanuts or simply prefer something different, you can use cashews or almonds, or omit the nuts entirely.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted according to your taste. Use fewer red pepper flakes or chilies for a milder dish, or add more for an extra kick!

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Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for OLD Kung Pao Chicken Noodle Stir Fry, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, get your pans ready, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic dish. Share your creations with friends and family, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!