Chicken Yakisoba

If you’re in the mood for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than Chicken Yakisoba. This Japanese stir-fried noodle dish is not only satisfying but also an excellent way to use up any leftover vegetables you might have in your fridge. With tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce, Chicken Yakisoba is sure to become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

Chicken Yakisoba is a versatile and forgiving dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a meal that can be on your table in under 30 minutes. Plus, the combination of sauces creates a depth of flavor that will impress anyone sitting at your dinner table.

What’s in the Bowl

• 1/4 cup soy sauce – The base of the sauce, providing a savory umami flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy depth to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup – A hint of sweetness to balance the salty flavors.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – For a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
• 12 ounces fresh yakisoba noodles – The star of the dish, offering the perfect chewy texture.
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated – Infuses the dish with warmth and spice.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a fragrant base.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For stir-frying the ingredients.
• 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin, bite-size pieces – The protein that keeps the dish hearty.
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks – Adds crunch and color.
• 1 small onion, finely diced – Provides sweetness and depth.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced – For vibrant color and sweetness.
• 2 cups Napa cabbage or green cabbage, shredded – Adds volume and texture.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish – A fresh and crunchy topping.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large skillet or wok – Essential for stir-frying your ingredients evenly.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and tossing the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate measurements of sauces.
• Cutting board and knife – For prepping your vegetables and chicken.

Build Chicken Yakisoba Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Set this sauce mixture aside, as it’ll bring everything together later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the diced onion, matchstick carrots, and sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage and Noodles

Next, add the shredded cabbage and fresh yakisoba noodles to the pan. Toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are separated and mixed well with the vegetables.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour the sauce over the entire mixture. Stir everything together to ensure the noodles and vegetables are coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Chicken Yakisoba hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Substitute yakisoba noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
• Use cauliflower rice instead of noodles to keep it very low in carbs.
• Replace brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
• Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and juiciness.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; it will steam instead of sear.
• Avoid overcooking the vegetables; they should remain slightly crunchy for texture.
• Don’t forget to separate the yakisoba noodles before adding them to the pan; this prevents clumping.
• Don’t skip the garnishing step; fresh green onions add brightness and flavor.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Chicken Yakisoba makes fantastic leftovers! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional soy sauce to keep the noodles from drying out.

For meal prep, you can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready to eat!

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

What type of noodles can I use if I can’t find yakisoba noodles?

If you can’t find yakisoba noodles, you can use udon noodles, soba noodles, or even ramen noodles. Just cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the stir-fry.

Can I prepare Chicken Yakisoba in advance and freeze it?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Yakisoba. However, the noodles may become slightly softer after reheating. It’s best to freeze the stir-fry without the noodles and then add freshly cooked noodles when you reheat it.

What vegetables can I add to Chicken Yakisoba?

You can add a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or bean sprouts. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand for a colorful and nutritious meal.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks, it’s time to dive into making your own Chicken Yakisoba. Enjoy the process, savor the aromas wafting through your kitchen, and relish in the delicious outcome. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!