Why You’ll Love Irresistible Yaki Udon Noodle Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers Recipe
This Yaki Udon is quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners without sacrificing bold, satisfying taste. The savory, soy-based sauce coats every strand of noodle, while colorful vegetables add freshness and texture. It’s a versatile meal that allows you to swap proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand, making it a crowd-pleaser for all tastes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
udon noodles
boneless chicken breast
bell peppers
carrots
green onions
soy sauce
sesame oil
vegetable broth
garlic cloves
Directions
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Cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions until tender yet chewy; drain and set aside.
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Heat half of the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breast and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the remaining sesame oil if needed. Toss in the bell peppers and carrots and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until they soften but still retain some crunch.
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Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add the cooked udon noodles, soy sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
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Stir in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for an aromatic boost. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
• Protein swaps: Use beef, turkey, pork, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Vegetarian version: Add extra mushrooms, broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a spoonful of chili paste or sriracha with the sauce.
• Sauce twist: Try a blend of dark and light soy sauce with oyster sauce for a deeper flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover yaki udon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to refresh the noodles, or microwave until heated through.
FAQs
What is yaki udon?
Yaki udon is a Japanese stir-fried noodle dish made with thick udon noodles, vegetables, protein, and a savory sauce.
Can I make yaki udon vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables or tofu for a satisfying vegetarian version.
What kind of noodles are best for yaki udon?
Fresh or frozen udon noodles are preferred because of their chewy texture; dried udon noodles can work but may be less bouncy.
Do I need to boil the noodles before stir-frying?
Yes, prepare the noodles first by boiling or blanching until tender, then drain before stir-frying.
Can I use soba or rice noodles instead of udon?
Yes, alternative noodles like soba or rice noodles can be used, but cooking times and textures will vary.
How can I make the sauce richer?
Adding ingredients like oyster sauce, mirin, or dark soy sauce enhances the depth and umami of the sauce.
Is yaki udon spicy?
Traditional yaki udon isn’t spicy, but you can easily add chili paste or hot sauce to suit your preferred heat level.
What vegetables work best in yaki udon?
Common choices include bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, and green onions.
Can I prepare yaki udon ahead of time?
You can cook components ahead, but it’s best served fresh for optimal texture.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
Rinse cooked udon under cold water and toss with a little oil if not stir-frying immediately.
Conclusion
This yaki udon recipe brings the heartiness and bold flavors of Japanese comfort food to your kitchen with minimal effort. With chewy udon noodles, vibrant veggies, and savory sauce, it’s a customizable dish that satisfies any craving. Whether for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this stir-fried noodle dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
