Peanut Noodles with Chicken

By Valerie's Kitchen

Ingredients

5 tablespoons less sodium soy sauce
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (divided)
2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 teaspoons minced garlic (or garlic paste)
2 teaspoons finely grated fresh ginger (or ginger paste)
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (can substitute Sriracha sauce)
¼ cup hot water
10 ounces Chinese noodles (medium thickness) (like lo mein noodles (can substitute spaghetti))
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken breast (skin removed)
salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
4 green onions (sliced thinly on the bias)
1 medium carrot (peeled and shredded (about ¾ cup))
1 medium red bell pepper (chopped)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Prep Time20mins
Cook Time10mins
Servings6

Instructions

Place the soy sauce, peanut butter, 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (reserve remaining sesame seeds for later), rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili garlic sauce (or Sriracha) in the bowl of a food processor or blender and process for 30 seconds, or until smooth. With the unit running, gradually pour in the hot water. Continue to process for a few more seconds. Transfer the sauce to a container, cover, and refrigerate.

Bring water to boil in a big pasta pot. Add the noodles and cook for the length of time indicated on the package, stirring occasionally. Drain the noodles in a colander and then rinse with cold water until cool to the touch. Drain again, and immediately transfer to a large bowl, and toss with the sesame oil. (Don't allow the noodles to dry out before transferring to the bowl).

Add the chicken, green onions, carrot, and bell pepper to the noodles and toss to combine. Add the sauce and toss until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with cilantro and the remaining sesame seeds and serve. If making ahead, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.