If you’re craving a vibrant and deeply flavorful dish that brings together the fragrant aromas of basil, garlic, and soy with tender chicken and chewy noodles, this Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. It bursts with classic Taiwanese flair, where the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic ingredients creates a noodle dish that’s satisfyingly savory and immensely comforting. Once you try this recipe, it’ll easily become one of your go-to meals for an impressive yet surprisingly simple dinner that your friends and family will love again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe comes alive through a handful of straightforward, powerhouse ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to build layers of taste, texture, and stunning color that make this dish so irresistible.
- 3 tbsp Chinese cooking wine: Adds depth and a slight fruity note that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose soy sauce: Provides a rich, salty backbone that’s essential for that authentic umami punch.
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce: Brings a hint of sweetness and a beautiful dark color to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Balances savory elements with gentle caramel undertones.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a warm, nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible.
- 2 tbsp oil: For stir-frying ingredients to a perfect sear and locking in flavors.
- 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender and flavorful, chicken thighs stay juicy even after cooking.
- 1 tbsp freshly minced ginger: Adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick to brighten the dish.
- 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic: Provides that irresistible savory aroma that makes everyone’s mouth water.
- 450 g (1 lb) udon noodles, prepared as per the packet instructions: Thick and chewy noodles soak up the sauce perfectly for hearty satisfaction.
- 2 firmly packed cups (100 g) Thai basil leaves: The star herb that delivers distinctive fragrant sweetness, elevating every bite.
How to Make Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by combining the Chinese cooking wine, all-purpose soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and set this flavorful mixture aside. This sauce is the heart of the dish, creating that signature “three cup” umami richness that clings to every piece of chicken and noodle.
Step 2: Heat the Oil and Sauté Aromatics
Heat the 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add freshly minced ginger and garlic, stirring constantly until they become fragrant and slightly golden. This step is key to waking up those essential oils and building a vibrant flavor base for the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken thighs to the pan, spreading them out to ensure even contact with the surface. Let them sear without moving for a couple of minutes to develop a slight caramelized crust, then stir-fry until they are almost cooked through and beautifully browned on all sides.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Simmer
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, mixing everything to coat the pieces thoroughly. Turn the heat to medium and let it simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken and infuse the chicken with that iconic three-cup flavor. This simmering moment is where the magic truly happens.
Step 5: Combine with Noodles and Basil
Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken looks glossy and fully cooked, add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every strand with the sauce. Finally, stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves, letting their fragrance permeate the dish before taking it off the heat.
How to Serve Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To highlight the fresh, vibrant flavors, sprinkle some finely chopped scallions or toasted sesame seeds on top. These little touches add both crunch and brightness, elevating your plate from delicious to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp cucumber salad or a simple stir-fried vegetable medley. The coolness and fresh crunch of steamed or pickled veggies bring refreshing contrast, balancing the rich umami notes in the noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe in individual mini cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls topped with a sprig of Thai basil. This not only makes for a visually stunning presentation but keeps the noodles warm and inviting right at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the noodles may soak up some of the sauce overnight, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Freezing
While freezing cooked Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe is possible, the texture of the noodles may change after thawing. If you want to freeze, separate the chicken and sauce from the noodles and freeze them individually for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a small amount of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to evenly warm through without drying out the strands or losing that beautiful basil aroma.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles in this recipe?
Absolutely! While udon noodles are traditional here for their chewy texture, you can substitute with rice noodles, lo mein, or even spaghetti if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is Thai basil essential for the authentic flavor?
Thai basil brings a unique peppery sweetness that defines the character of the dish, but if it’s unavailable, you can try sweet basil as a mild alternative, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap chicken thighs for firm tofu or tempeh. Use the same cooking technique and adjust the sauce slightly to keep it balanced and delicious.
How spicy is this recipe?
Classic Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe isn’t inherently spicy, but you can add fresh chili slices or chili oil if you want to bring in some heat without overpowering the other flavors.
What is the key to getting tender chicken pieces?
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs and pan-searing them before simmering in the sauce locks in their juices, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful throughout cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe. With its comforting flavors and simple steps, it’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it one of your own treasured recipes. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Three Cup Chicken Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A flavorful and comforting Three Cup Chicken Noodles recipe combining tender chicken thighs with a rich and aromatic sauce made from Chinese cooking wine, soy sauces, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Tossed with fresh udon noodles and fragrant Thai basil, this dish promises a perfect balance of savory and sweet notes in every bite.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Chinese cooking wine
- 2 tbsp all-purpose soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp oil
- 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp freshly minced ginger
- 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
- 450 g (1 lb) udon noodles, prepared as per the packet instructions
- 2 firmly packed cups (100 g) Thai basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Chinese cooking wine, all-purpose soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken thighs and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Add the freshly minced ginger and garlic to the chicken. Stir-fry together until fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer and reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes so the chicken can absorb the rich flavors.
- Toss in Noodles and Basil: Add the prepared udon noodles and Thai basil leaves to the skillet. Toss everything together over medium heat just until the noodles are heated through and the basil wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve the Three Cup Chicken Noodles hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Note 1: Prepare udon noodles according to the packet instructions, usually by boiling them in water for 2-3 minutes, then draining.
- Note 2: If Thai basil is unavailable, holy basil or sweet basil can be substituted, but Thai basil provides the most authentic flavor.
