Garlic Chili Noodles
If there’s one dish that makes it into our dinner rotation more often than any other, it’s these Garlic Chilli Noodles. I stumbled across a version of this recipe during one of those nights when the fridge was looking sparse, and I needed something quick, flavorful, and comforting. I tossed together some noodles with garlic, chili flakes, and a few pantry staples, and it was love at first bite. My husband couldn’t stop raving, and the kids? Let’s just say their bowls were spotless—no leftovers in sight!
There’s something magical about the combo of garlicky richness and spicy chili heat, especially when it clings to glossy noodles that soak up every bit of sauce. It’s bold, comforting, and has just enough kick to wake up your taste buds. And the best part? It comes together in under 20 minutes, which makes it a total lifesaver on those crazy weeknights when dinner feels like an afterthought.
Now, anytime I make this, someone always asks for the recipe. I love that it uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s versatile too—add veggies, toss in chicken or shrimp, or keep it totally plant-based. The flavor is so addictive that even my picky eater gave it two thumbs up. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to be one of those recipes you turn to again and again.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I make this less spicy?
Absolutely! Just reduce the amount of red chili flakes or omit them altogether. You can also add a touch of honey or brown sugar to mellow the heat.
Can I add protein?
Yes! This recipe works beautifully with cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even scrambled egg mixed in.
What type of noodles should I use?
Flat rice noodles or egg noodles work best, but honestly, any noodle you have on hand (even spaghetti!) will do the trick.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, reheat gently and maybe splash a little water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles.
Is this recipe vegan?
As written, yes! Just make sure to use a plant-based noodle if avoiding egg noodles.
What You Need to Make Garlic Chili Noodles
8 oz (225g) wide rice noodles or egg noodles
2 tbsp vegetable oil
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1–2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
1 tsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp sugar (optional, helps balance the spice)
Salt to taste
1 spring onion, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)
Special Tools Needed:
Large sauté pan or wok
Tongs or wooden spoon
Strainer for draining noodles
How to Make Garlic Chili Noodles
Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Toss lightly with a bit of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Add the chili flakes and stir for a few seconds, letting them infuse the oil.
Pour in the soy sauces, vinegar, and sugar, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for a minute.
Toss in the cooked noodles, stirring and flipping to coat them evenly in the sauce. Add a splash of water if it’s too thick.
Taste and adjust for salt or spice. Add the spring onion and fresh herbs just before serving.
Serve hot, straight from the pan or in bowls, and enjoy every spicy, garlicky bite!
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Chili Noodles
Don’t burn the garlic! Once it turns golden, move quickly to avoid bitterness.
Customize the heat to your preference—start mild and build up.
Use dark soy sauce for richer color and flavor.
Add crunch by tossing in chopped peanuts or sesame seeds at the end.
Double the batch if you’re serving a crowd—these go fast!
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This has become our go-to lazy dinner. So much flavor for such little effort!” – Jenna M.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I added shrimp and a squeeze of lime—amazing combo! Next time I might try it with tofu.” – Rick L.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfectly spicy and garlicky! Even my teens asked for seconds.” – Priya D.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, though I’ll cut the chili flakes in half next time—it was a bit much for me.” – Nancy W.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This is my new comfort food. I’ve already shared it with three friends!” – Emily K.
Printable Recipe
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Garlic Chili Noodles
These Garlic Chilli Noodles are bold, spicy, and bursting with garlicky goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick and easy noodle dish comes together in just 20 minutes using simple pantry staples. Customize the spice level, add your favorite protein, and serve it as a comforting main or a flavorful snack—this recipe is endlessly adaptable and guaranteed to please!
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) wide rice noodles or egg noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1–2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
- tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, helps balance the spice)
- Salt to taste
- 1 spring onion, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)
- Special Tools Needed:
- Large sauté pan or wok
- Tongs or wooden spoon
- Strainer for draining noodles
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Toss lightly with a bit of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Add the chili flakes and stir for a few seconds, letting them infuse the oil.
- Pour in the soy sauces, vinegar, and sugar, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for a minute.
- Toss in the cooked noodles, stirring and flipping to coat them evenly in the sauce. Add a splash of water if it’s too thick.
- Taste and adjust for salt or spice. Add the spring onion and fresh herbs just before serving.
- Serve hot, straight from the pan or in bowls, and enjoy every spicy, garlicky bite!
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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