Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWander the bustling streets of Thailand and you’ll often stumble upon vendors serving a sizzling plate of drunken noodles, a dish embraced by locals and travelers alike. This 15-minute Thai stir-fry brings together the rich umami of savory sauces with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all enveloped in chewy rice noodles. It’s incredibly quick to whip up, making it the perfect antidote to those hectic weeknights when takeout seems like the only option. Plus, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—you can easily switch up proteins and veggies to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Are you ready to impress your taste buds with this delicious homemade version? Let’s dive in! Why are Drunken Noodles a Must-Try? Quick and Convenient: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those busy nights when you crave a homemade meal without the fuss. Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory sauces and fresh ingredients creates a symphony of taste that will elevate your dining experience. Adaptable: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or a vegetarian option, drunken noodles easily accommodate your preferences, making them a versatile weeknight staple. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them at your next gathering, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds! Drunken noodles are sure to impress any crowd, from friends to family. For an equally delicious dish, check out my Chicken Buttered Noodles for another easy option. Rich Texture: The chewy rice noodles interlaced with vibrant veggies provide a delightful bite, while the glossy sauce brings it all together beautifully. Drunken Noodles Ingredients • For all the adventurous home chefs out there, here’s your essential list of ingredients! For the Sauce Oyster Sauce – Adds rich umami flavor; substitute with vegetarian oyster sauce for a plant-based option. Light Soy Sauce – Provides a salty base; can be swapped with regular soy sauce, but it may slightly alter the flavor. Dark Soy Sauce – Enhances color and adds depth; can be replaced with extra light soy sauce if necessary. Fish Sauce – Introduces a salty and savory kick; omit for vegetarian version or replace with more soy sauce and a bit of sugar. Brown Sugar – Balances flavors with sweetness; use white sugar or coconut sugar as an alternative. For the Protein Chicken Thigh – Main protein source adds juiciness; substitute with any preferred protein (beef, pork, shrimp, tofu). For Aromatics Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; no substitution suggested, but powdered garlic can be used in a pinch. Thai Chili Peppers – Adds heat and spice; jalapeños or serranos can be used as milder alternatives. For Cooking Canola Oil – For stir-frying; peanut oil is a suitable substitute if desired. For the Veggies Chinese Broccoli – Adds nutrition and vibrant color; substitute with spinach, broccolini, or bok choy. Baby Corn – Offers crunch and sweetness; can be replaced with water chestnuts or bamboo shoots. For the Noodles Fresh Thick Rice Noodles – Creates a tender, chewy texture; dried rice noodles can also be used; just rehydrate according to package instructions. For Garnish Basil – Adds aromatic freshness, preferably Thai basil; Italian basil works in a pinch. With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to bring the mouthwatering essence of drunken noodles right to your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Drunken Noodles Step 1: Prepare the Sauce In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Set this flavorful sauce aside; it will be the backbone of your drunken noodles, enhancing every bite with rich umami goodness. Step 2: Marinate the Chicken In a separate bowl, add the chicken thighs and drizzle with dark soy sauce. Mix to coat the chicken evenly, letting it marinate for about 5 minutes. This step infuses the chicken with flavor and helps it develop a lovely color when cooked. Step 3: Sauté Aromatics Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of canola oil. Allow the oil to shimmer for about 30 seconds, then add minced garlic and chopped Thai chili peppers. Stir-fry for approximately 30 seconds, until they become fragrant but not browned, creating a deliciously aromatic base. Step 4: Cook the Chicken Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. The exterior should be golden, while the inside reaches a safe temperature of 165°F, ensuring your drunken noodles are hearty and satisfying. Step 5: Stir-fry the Vegetables Once the chicken is cooked, incorporate Chinese broccoli and baby corn into the pan. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are bright, tender, and maintain a slight crunch. Their vibrant colors will enhance the overall appeal of your drunken noodles. Step 6: Add the Noodles If using fresh thick rice noodles, slice them into manageable lengths; if using dried, cook them as per package instructions. Once prepped, add the noodles to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together for about 1 minute, allowing the noodles to warm and mix with the savory sauce. Step 7: Incorporate the Sauce Pour the prepared sauce over the noodle mixture, stirring continuously until the noodles absorb the flavors and are glossy, approximately 2 minutes. The sauce should envelop the chicken and vegetables, creating a deliciously enticing aroma that signals your drunken noodles are almost ready. Step 8: Finish with Basil Remove the skillet from heat and add a handful of fresh basil leaves, gently tossing them through the hot noodles until just wilted. The basil adds a fresh pop of flavor that perfectly balances the savory elements of the dish. Your vibrant and tasty drunken noodles are now ready to be served! Expert Tips for Drunken Noodles Hot Oil Essential: Ensure your oil is hot before adding garlic and chilis; this prevents burning and enhances flavor. Avoid Overcrowding: Stir-fry in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can steam the ingredients rather than sauté them, affecting the texture. Fresh Noodles Matter: Fresh thick rice noodles drastically reduce prep time and yield a delightful texture. Look for them in Asian markets for the best results. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or carrots; they can elevate your drunken noodles based on what’s fresh and in season. Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings based on your preference—flavors deepen as everything cooks, so don’t hesitate to tweak for perfection! Make Ahead Options These Drunken Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness and flavor. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and store them alongside the noodles in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just stir-fry the chicken and vegetables as instructed, add the noodles and sauce, and toss everything together. This way, you’ll enjoy the same mouthwatering taste with minimal effort—dinner will be ready in a flash! How to Store and Freeze Drunken Noodles Fridge: Store leftover drunken noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while preventing spoilage. Freezer: If you need to save your drunken noodles for later, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This helps maintain their original texture and flavor. Airtight Storage: Always ensure your storage containers are properly sealed to keep out air, which can dry out the noodles or affect their taste. What to Serve with Quick & Savory Drunken Noodles Elevate your dining experience by pairing these tantalizing noodles with complementary sides and drinks. Creamy Coconut Rice: This subtle, sweet side provides a luscious contrast to the savory noodles, enhancing every bite. Tangy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a zesty dressing; its crunchiness and lightness balance the hearty noodle dish perfectly. Scallion Pancakes: Crispy and chewy, these pancakes add a delightful texture, making your meal feel authentic and satisfying. Spicy Garlic Edamame: These flavor-packed pods bring a hint of spice that ties in beautifully with the noodles’ bold flavors. Thai Iced Tea: Sweet, creamy, and aromatic, this drink’s smooth flavors make it an excellent accompaniment to your spicy dish. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing sorbet provides a perfect palate cleanser after the rich noodles. Grilled Vegetables: Add a smoky complement with seasonal veggies; their charred sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile. Peanut Sauce Spring Rolls: These fresh rolls stuffed with veggies and served with peanut sauce offer a delightful crunch and added depth. Beer or Wine Pairing: A light beer or Riesling balances the flavors, enhancing your enjoyment of this delicious meal. Drunken Noodles Variations & Substitutions Unleash your creativity with these variations and substitutions to make this dish your own! Enjoy the fun of experimenting with flavors and ingredients that tantalize your taste buds. Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu for a personal twist on this meal. Each protein contributes a distinct flavor profile, giving you a new experience with every version! Vegetarian Delight: Use tofu or tempeh instead of meat, and consider adding extra veggies for a nutritious boost. Leafy greens and mushrooms can enhance the umami richness while keeping it plant-based. Heat Adjustment: Customize the spice level by using fewer or milder peppers, like jalapeños, if Thai chilis are too hot for your palate. A little tweak can turn up the flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. Seasonal Veggies: Toss in seasonal favorites like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added crunch and color. This approach not only enhances texture but also invites freshness to each dish! Gluten-Free Version: Swap the rice noodles for gluten-free alternatives like zucchini noodles or quinoa to keep it gluten-free while still delivering satisfying bites. Explore how different textures can shift the vibe of your meal! Flavor Boost: Experiment with different sauces, like hoisin or teriyaki, to replace the usual oyster sauce. Your drunken noodles will be uniquely delicious with a sweet and tangy twist! Fresh Herbs Galore: Garnish with cilantro, green onions, or mint alongside or instead of basil for an exciting herbaceous flavor. These add brightness and a refreshing finish to your vibrant dish. Dark Soy Sauce Alternative: If you’re out of dark soy sauce, use additional light soy sauce but balance it with a dash of molasses or extra brown sugar for that deeper color and taste. Adding these variations can transform your drunken noodles into a new favorite each time while keeping your weekly meals exciting and flavorful! If you’re interested in exploring more delightful noodle recipes, you might enjoy our Chicken Buttered Noodles or other delightful pasta dishes. Happy cooking! Drunken Noodles Recipe FAQs How do I select the right ingredients for drunken noodles? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh and vibrant produce. Look for firm, bright Chinese broccoli without wilted leaves, and select chicken thighs that are moist-looking with no dark spots. If using fresh rice noodles, they should be soft and pliable. Always check the expiration dates on sauces and ensure they are aromatic and flavorful—this will enhance your dish significantly! How should I store leftover drunken noodles? Very important! Store your drunken noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep their glorious texture, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to reintroduce moisture. Can I freeze drunken noodles? Definitely! To freeze, allow the noodles to cool completely and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove for best results! What if my noodles are sticking together after cooking? Oh no, that’s a common issue! If your noodles are sticking, it may be due to not rinsing them after cooking or overcrowding in the pan. To fix this, try tossing them with a little oil while cooking or adding a splash of water when reheating to loosen them. If you’re using dried noodles, make sure to add them to boiling water without any other ingredients first, ensuring they cook separately until tender. Are drunken noodles suitable for vegetarians or people with allergies? Absolutely! You can easily adapt drunken noodles to fit vegetarian diets by omitting the chicken and fish sauce, replacing them with tofu or extra veggies. Also, ensure to use vegetarian oyster sauce and carefully check for allergens like soy or gluten in your soy sauces. Always double-check labels if allergies are a concern to keep everyone safe! Can I make drunken noodles ahead of time? Yes, you can! For maximum flavor and convenience, prepare everything up to the noodle addition earlier in the day and just cook the noodles and combine them with your stir-fried ingredients when you’re ready to serve. This way, you save time during those hectic weeknights while still enjoying a fantastic meal that tastes just as fresh! Savory Drunken Noodles Ready in Just 15 Minutes Experience the rich umami flavors of Drunken Noodles in a quick, delicious stir-fry that’s perfect for any weeknight meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 platesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ThaiCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce Or vegetarian oyster sauce for plant-based option.1 tablespoon Light Soy Sauce Can substitute with regular soy sauce.1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce Use extra light soy sauce as a substitute if necessary.1 teaspoon Fish Sauce Omit for vegetarian version.1 teaspoon Brown Sugar White sugar or coconut sugar can be used instead.For the Protein1 pound Chicken Thigh Can substitute with beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu.For Aromatics3 cloves Garlic Minced.2 pieces Thai Chili Peppers Substitute with jalapeños or serranos for less heat.For Cooking2 tablespoons Canola Oil Peanut oil is a suitable substitute.For the Veggies1 cup Chinese Broccoli Can substitute with spinach, broccolini, or bok choy.1 cup Baby Corn Substitute with water chestnuts or bamboo shoots.For the Noodles10 ounces Fresh Thick Rice Noodles Dried noodles can be used, rehydrated as per package instructions.For Garnish1 handful Basil Preferably Thai basil. Equipment Large skillet or wokSmall bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Set aside.In a separate bowl, marinate chicken thighs with dark soy sauce for about 5 minutes.Heat canola oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped Thai chili peppers; stir-fry for about 30 seconds.Add marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until browned and cooked through.Incorporate Chinese broccoli and baby corn; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.Add noodles to the skillet and toss to mix everything together for about 1 minute.Pour the prepared sauce over the noodle mixture and stir until glossy, about 2 minutes.Remove from heat and mix in fresh basil until wilted. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure your oil is hot before cooking to enhance flavors. Fresh thick rice noodles improve texture and reduce prep time. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
