Name: Quick & Delicious Chicken Udon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 8 oz fresh or frozen udon noodles; 8 oz boneless skinless chicken thigh or breast, thinly sliced; 4 cups chicken stock; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp mirin; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; 2 green onions, sliced; Optional: spinach or bok choy

Why You’ll Love Quick & Delicious Chicken UdonRecipe

This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor thanks to a homemade broth infused with aromatics and umami-rich seasonings. The thick udon noodles absorb the broth beautifully, while juicy chicken and fresh greens make each bowl hearty, warming, and nourishing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken & Aromatics
2 tablespoon sesame oil
1 lbs chicken thighs, cut into large chunks
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 small yellow onion, cut into chunks
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, sliced into thick coins

Broth
2.5 quarts water (10 cups)
1 tablespoon hondashi powder
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons salt

Noodles
2.75 lbs frozen udon
1 tablespoon sesame oil

Toppings
Thinly sliced green onions
Bok choy or choy sum

Directions

Pan fry the chicken and aromatics
Heat the sesame oil in a wide medium pot over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, then sauté until fragrant.

Build the stock
Pour in the water and bring to a boil uncovered, about 10 minutes. Lower the heat and simmer gently for 20 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. For a clearer broth, remove the aromatics at this stage if desired.

Season the stock
Stir in the hondashi powder, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Prepare the udon noodles
Bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the frozen udon and cook until just loosened and heated through, about 1–2 minutes. Drain well and toss with sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Assemble
Divide the noodles between serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and chicken over the noodles. Top with blanched bok choy or choy sum and finish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 5
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes

Variations

You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option, adjusting the simmer time to avoid overcooking. For a richer broth, add a splash of chicken stock in place of some of the water. Mushrooms, spinach, or napa cabbage make great vegetable additions. For a spicy version, drizzle chili oil or add a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.

Storage/Reheating

For best results, store the broth separately from the noodles and toppings. Keep the broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Warm the noodles and vegetables separately, then assemble just before serving.

FAQs

What type of udon noodles should I use?

Frozen udon noodles work best for their chewy texture, but fresh udon can also be used.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but it cooks faster, so reduce the simmering time slightly to keep it tender.

How can I make the broth clearer?

Strain out the onion, garlic, and ginger after simmering before adding the seasonings.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, napa cabbage, or baby bok choy are excellent additions.

Is hondashi powder required?

Hondashi adds depth and umami, but chicken bouillon or mushroom seasoning can be used as a substitute.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute the udon with gluten-free noodles.

How do I keep udon noodles from sticking together?

Toss the drained noodles with a small amount of sesame oil immediately after cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The broth can be made in advance and refrigerated. Assemble with freshly heated noodles and toppings when ready to eat.

What toppings go well with chicken udon?

Soft-boiled eggs, nori seaweed, sesame seeds, and extra greens pair well with this dish.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe is mild, but you can easily add heat with chili oil, chili crisp, or red pepper flakes.

Conclusion

This chicken udon recipe is an easy, flavorful comfort dish that fits perfectly into busy schedules. With its savory broth, tender chicken, and satisfying noodles, it’s a reliable and versatile meal you’ll want to make again and again.