Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon

Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of noodles, especially when it’s packed with bold flavors and a little kick of heat. This Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon is exactly that—a harmonious blend of tender chicken, chewy udon noodles, and crisp veggies, all tossed in a vibrant sauce that balances spicy, sweet, and savory notes perfectly. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or something satisfying yet simple, this recipe is your go-to. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a little Asian-inspired flair to your kitchen without any fuss.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon stands out because it’s a one-pan wonder that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The sesame oil and seeds add a toasty depth, while the sriracha sauce brings just enough heat to wake up your palate without overwhelming it. The tender chicken breast slices cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can swap out vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. And best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy days when you want something delicious but hassle-free.

If you love dishes like Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodles, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It shares that same comforting noodle bowl feel but with its own unique sesame-spicy twist.

Ingredient List

• 8 oz udon noodles
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (red or yellow for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot – for boiling udon noodles
• Large skillet or wok – for cooking chicken and veggies
• Sharp knife – to slice chicken and vegetables
• Grater – to grate fresh ginger
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and ingredients
• Colander – to drain noodles

From Start to Finish: Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the udon noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes until tender but chewy. Drain the noodles and set aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly to release their aroma—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the sliced chicken breast, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Toss in the sliced bell peppers and snap peas. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender but still vibrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, and the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly and let it simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Garnish

Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure the noodles are coated in the spicy sesame sauce. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Divide the Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon into bowls and dig in while it’s hot. The balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors makes this dish irresistibly good. For a fresh contrast, serve alongside a crunchy Asian Chicken Salad or your favorite steamed greens.

No-Store Runs Needed

• You likely have sesame oil or a neutral oil to substitute if needed.
• Garlic and ginger paste can replace fresh versions in a pinch.
• Frozen snap peas or other quick-cooking vegetables work well if fresh aren’t available.
• Honey can be swapped for maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it sweet.
• Sriracha can be replaced with any chili garlic sauce or hot sauce of your choice.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overcooking the noodles – Udon should be tender but still have a bit of chew. Overcooked noodles become mushy and lose their texture.
• Cooking chicken at too low a heat – For juicy, nicely browned chicken, keep the skillet hot enough to sear but not burn.
• Neglecting to toss the noodles in the sauce – This dish shines when every strand is coated, so don’t skip that step!
• Skipping the fresh aromatics – Garlic and ginger bring depth; using pre-minced or powders won’t give the same bright flavor.

Save It for Later

This Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently in a skillet or microwave. Avoid overcooking to keep the noodles from becoming too soft.

Your Top Questions

Can I use other types of noodles instead of udon?

Absolutely! While udon noodles provide a chewy, thick texture, you can use rice noodles, soba, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this dish, and can I make it milder?

The sriracha adds moderate heat, but you can easily dial it down by using less or substituting with a milder chili sauce. If you prefer more heat, add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash more sriracha.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth or water instead of any meat-based stock if your sauce recipe calls for it. Stir-fry the tofu until golden to add texture.

What side dishes complement Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon?

Light, fresh sides balance the bold flavors here. Try a crisp cucumber salad, steamed bok choy, or a simple Asian Chicken Salad for a refreshing contrast.

What to Make After This

• Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodles – Another noodle dish with a rich, nutty sauce and a spicy kick.
• Asian Chicken Salad – Crisp and refreshing, perfect for warmer days or as a side.
• Ginger Garlic Stir-Fried Broccoli – A simple, flavorful vegetable side to complement any Asian-inspired meal.
• Miso Soup – A comforting bowl of umami-rich broth to start your meal.

See You at the Table

There’s something so satisfying about a bowl filled with warm noodles, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies coated in a spicy sesame sauce. This Spicy Sesame Chicken Udon delivers all that and more—comfort, flavor, and ease. Whether making it for yourself on a busy night or serving it up to friends and family, it’s a dish that invites everyone to dig in and savor every bite. So grab your chopsticks or fork, and enjoy this delicious journey of textures and tastes. Happy cooking!

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