The Best Drunken Noodles Recipe
Thai drunken noodles are a savory, umami packed noodle dish that is unlike anything you have ever tried! This is a popular take out dish from Thai restaurants, that is actually so easy to make at home. Drunken noodles may look similar to pad thai, but they have a completely different flavor profile. Pad thai uses tamarind, peanuts and lime for a slightly tangy, sweet flavor, whereas these drunken noodles are super savory with a deep umami flavor! You can make them spicy, or keep them exactly how the recipe is written here, depending on your preference!
Ingredients Needed
There are three separate components of this drunken noodles recipe. The chicken and marinade, the sauce, and the actual noodles! Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken Marinade
Chicken Breast: I used diced chicken breast here. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer! Soy Sauce: Soy sauce acts as the salt and makes the chicken very flavorful. Sesame Oil: A little bit of sesame oil adds a slightly nutty flavor! Cornstarch: To make sure the chicken gets crispy!
Sauce
Oyster Sauce: Oyster sauce adds an umami flavor that you won’t otherwise get! Light Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds just a little hint of sweet, caramelized flavor. Low Sodium Soy Sauce and Dark Soy Sauce: I use a combination of low sodium soy sauce and dark soy sauce here. Dark soy sauce is thicker and slightly sweeter than regular soy sauce, so a combination is great for maximum flavor. Water: Just a little bit of water is needed!
Drunken Noodles
Oil: You can use a simple, flavorless oil like canola or vegetable oil. Veggies: I used bell peppers, green onions, ginger and garlic! Noodles: Thick rice noodles work best here. Basil: Thai basil is best, but you can use regular fresh basil, too!
How to Make This Recipe
Tips for Success
Add more veggies! You can feel free to add more veggies like carrots, zucchini and mushrooms! Add some spice! Traditionally, drunken noodles are spicy. I didn’t add spice to mine, but you can definitely add spice in the form of sriracha or red pepper flakes! Drunken noodles are made with an extra wide rice noodle that is sometimes hard to find. You can use a pad thai rice noodle or you can even use linguini if you prefer!