Name: Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 ounces wide rice noodles; 2 shallots, sliced; 5 cloves garlic, minced; ⅓ cup chopped white part of scallions/green onions; 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger; 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable oil); 4-5 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari; 1-3 tablespoons chili garlic sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar (can substitute coconut sugar); 1 tablespoon sriracha; 2 teaspoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Remaining chopped green part of scallions; Optional: red chili flakes for more spice; Optional: diced roasted red peppers or sautéed vegetables like bok choy, carrot, or cabbage

Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 16 reviews

If you’re craving a noodle dish that packs a punch yet is surprisingly easy to make, you’re going to love this Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe. It’s one of those go-to meals I keep in my back pocket for busy nights when I want bold flavors without fuss. Trust me, once you make these noodles, you’ll find yourself coming back to this rich, garlicky, and spicy bowl again and again.

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Why This Recipe Works

Balanced Heat: The mix of chili garlic sauce, sriracha, and optional red pepper flakes lets you tailor the spiciness perfectly to your taste.
Layered Aromatics: Sauteeing shallots, garlic, ginger, and scallion whites builds depth in flavor, making the sauce anything but one-dimensional.
Quick & Versatile: Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights and can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Texture Harmony: Wide rice noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, giving you slurpy bites every time.

Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles, chili garlic noodle dish, spicy Asian noodles, quick garlic noodle recipe, fiery stir-fry noodles - A white bowl filled with wide flat noodles coated in a shiny reddish-brown sauce is shown from above. The noodles are mixed and curled inside the bowl with visible pieces of fresh green onions and chopped cilantro scattered on top. There are small white sesame seeds and dark chili flakes sprinkled over the noodles. A pair of dark wooden chopsticks rests on the edge of the bowl leaning inward. In the blurred background, two small white bowls hold red chili flakes and more chopped green onions. The surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient here plays a role in bringing this Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe to life. Whether you’re hunting for the freshest ginger or debating between soy sauce and tamari, I’ll share some tips to guide you through.

Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles, chili garlic noodle dish, spicy Asian noodles, quick garlic noodle recipe, fiery stir-fry noodles - Flat lay of wide rice noodles loosely coiled, a few whole shallots with purplish skins, several uncracked brown garlic cloves, a small bunch of white parts of scallions neatly chopped, a piece of fresh ginger root with skin and a small pile of freshly grated ginger, small white ceramic bowls containing olive oil, low sodium soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, a small heap of brown sugar, a tiny pile of red pepper flakes, and a fresh whole red bell pepper halved to show interior seeds, all arranged with perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p awthu7i m7354615311229779997

Rice noodles: I used wide rice noodles for their perfect chew and ability to hold sauce well, but any rice noodle works.
Shallots: Their mild sweetness deepens as they saute, balancing the spicy sauce.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is a must for that signature punch you expect in this recipe.
Scallions (white part): Adds crisp, fresh oniony notes; save the green parts for garnish to keep things vibrant.
Fresh grated ginger: Brings brightness and a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with chili.
Oil (olive or vegetable): For sauteing aromatics; vegetable oil has a neutral flavor, but olive oil adds a nice richness.
Low sodium soy sauce or tamari: Controls saltiness; tamari is gluten-free and a bit richer.
Chili garlic sauce: The heart of the spice here—choose your brand based on your heat tolerance.
Brown sugar: Balances heat and acidity with a touch of sweetness; coconut sugar works as a great substitute.
Sriracha: Adds extra flavor complexity and chili heat—start light and adjust.
Rice vinegar: Brings acidity to brighten the entire dish.
Toasted sesame oil: Just a splash packs a nutty aroma that makes this recipe sing.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want an extra kick.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how adaptable this Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe is, so I always encourage you to play around with it. Whether you want extra heat, a sweeter note, or some added crunch, it’s easy to make it your own.

Less spicy version: Omit the sriracha and reduce chili garlic sauce, then gradually add back until it’s just right for your palate — I’ve done this many times for spice-shy friends.
Veggie boost: Toss in bok choy, shredded carrot, or cabbage for color and nutrients—I always sneak in extra veggies this way.
Protein addition: Chicken or tofu are my favorites here. Marinate tofu briefly in soy sauce before pan-frying for a crispy, flavorful punch.
Roasted pepper swap: I often swap the canned roasted red pepper for fresh red bell pepper sauteed until tender if I’m feeling fresh market vibes.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Noodles Perfectly

Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook your rice noodles according to the package instructions — typically around 6 to 8 minutes. Be sure not to overcook since rice noodles can turn mushy fast. I like to check them a minute before the suggested time, then taste a noodle for that tender-but-firm texture I’m aiming for. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to set their texture and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Saute Aromatics to Build Flavor

Heat your oil in a large pan over medium heat, then add your sliced shallots and minced garlic. Stir frequently and let them gently brown, about 5 minutes. Watch carefully here; garlic burns quickly and can turn bitter, so stirring is key. Once your shallots are soft and fragrant, toss in the white parts of the scallions and fresh grated ginger. Saute another 2-3 minutes until the ginger’s brightness comes through.

Step 3: Mix and Whisk Your Bold Sauce

Add all your remaining sauce ingredients — soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, brown sugar, sriracha, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and optionally red pepper flakes — into the pan. Whisk everything together so the sugar dissolves and flavors meld. I always start with the lower amount of sriracha and chili sauce here, because you can always add more spice later! Remember, it’s tricky to take heat away once it’s in.

Step 4: Toss Noodles and Let Flavors Marry

Drain your noodles if you haven’t already, then add them into the sauce. Toss the noodles gently but thoroughly so every strand gets coated with that spicy, garlicky goodness. Let it simmer together for a few minutes — this is when magic happens and the noodles soak up all those incredible flavors. I like to sneak in diced roasted red peppers at this stage to add a smoky, juicy burst. You can substitute with any sautéed veggies you love.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your noodles a careful taste. The first bite might not feel super spicy, but as you keep eating, the heat builds. If you want it spicier, add more sriracha or red pepper flakes incrementally. This step is all about personal preference—don’t rush it. Finally, garnish with the green parts of the scallions for a fresh, crisp punch.

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Pro Tips for Making Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe

Control Your Heat Gradually: I learned the hard way that it’s better to start mild — you can always spice it up later without overpowering the entire dish.
Don’t Burn the Garlic: Adding garlic too early or overheating it can make the dish bitter, so keep an eye and stir frequently while sautéing.
Use Wide Noodles for Delicious Texture: Their width helps trap the sauce perfectly, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
Add Veggies Last-Minute: For crunchier veggies, toss in fresh ones after turning off heat rather than cooking them with the aromatics.

How to Serve Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe

Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles, chili garlic noodle dish, spicy Asian noodles, quick garlic noodle recipe, fiery stir-fry noodles - The image shows a white pot filled with four layers of wide, flat noodles cooked in a dark brown sauce, giving the noodles a shiny and rich look. Scattered over the noodles are small pieces of green herbs and tiny bits of red chili pepper, adding a touch of color and texture. The noodles are swirled and mixed together with some areas appearing thicker and some thinner, showing a soft and smooth texture. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a pair of dark brown chopsticks resting beside it. Nearby, there is a small white bowl filled with red chili flakes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping these spicy noodles with the green scallion tops for that fresh pop of color and mild oniony crunch. Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty finish that I can’t resist. For a little extra zing, sprinkle some crushed peanuts or fresh cilantro if you happen to have it handy.

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, I often serve this with simple steamed bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad to cool things down. If I’m in the mood for protein, grilled chicken or crispy tofu on the side works beautifully. These noodles also pair well with an easy egg drop soup or miso soup for a cozy feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the noodles in a shallow bowl, fanning out the vibrant veggies and garnishes on top for a restaurant-style look. Adding a twist of lime wedge on the side amps up the fresh brightness. If you’re making this for friends, offer extra chili flakes and sriracha on the side, so everyone can spice their own way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store my leftover spicy chili garlic noodles in an airtight container in the fridge where they stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Sometimes the noodles soak up more sauce overnight, which actually intensifies the flavor! Just give them a quick stir before serving.

Freezing

While I haven’t made a huge batch to freeze often, these noodles freeze okay in a pinch. I recommend freezing the noodles and sauce separately if you can—it prevents mushiness. When reheating, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming the noodles gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too but I add a tiny drizzle of oil or sesame oil and stir midway through to prevent drying out. Taste again and adjust seasoning or spice if needed.

FAQs

Can I use another type of noodle for the Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe?

Absolutely! While I recommend wide rice noodles for texture and sauce absorption, you can use thinner rice noodles, soba noodles, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time according to the noodle you choose. Just keep in mind the flavor profile pairs best with noodles that soak up sauce well.
How do I control the spice level in this recipe?

Start with the lowest recommended amount of chili garlic sauce and sriracha, then taste before adding more. Remember, it’s easier to add heat than to take it away once you’ve mixed it in. You can also balance some heat with extra brown sugar or vinegar for a more rounded flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just make sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce if you want gluten-free, and skip any animal protein if adding extras. This noodle dish is naturally vegan-friendly and tasty as is with just veggies or tofu additions.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without losing flavor or texture?

Reheating in a hot skillet with a splash of water or broth works best to prevent noodles from drying out. Stir often and add a little toasted sesame oil at the end to refresh that yummy aroma.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s both comforting and exciting — warm, garlicky, and with that perfect kick of heat. I hope you give it a try soon and discover how easy it is to customize just for your cravings. Making this dish always feels like a mini celebration for my taste buds, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it with the same love I do.