These Sweet Chili Peanut Noodles are a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors with a creamy peanut sauce that clings to chewy rice noodles. The crunchy carrots and bell peppers add texture and freshness, making this dish a satisfying and colorful meal. I love making this recipe when I’m craving something bold, simple, and packed with flavor—it’s a delightful twist on classic noodles!
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
This Sweet Chili Peanut Noodles dish combines creamy peanut butter with the sweet heat of Thai chili sauce, making every bite rich and flavorful. With a few simple ingredients and fresh vegetables, it’s an easy, versatile recipe perfect for quick lunches or dinners that’ll satisfy your taste buds.
Recipe: Sweet Chili Peanut Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoon Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, Thai sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water to thin it out.
Step 3: Combine Noodles, Sauce, and Veggies
In a large bowl, toss the cooked rice noodles with the peanut sauce until evenly coated. Add the shredded carrots and red bell pepper, mixing gently to combine.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the Sweet Chili Peanut Noodles to serving bowls, garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts if desired, and enjoy this flavorful, spicy-sweet dish!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
These noodles are best served fresh but can be enjoyed hot, cold, or at room temperature. They pair well with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold as a noodle salad.
Helpful Notes
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more chili sauce or a dash of sriracha for extra heat, or reduce the chili sauce if you prefer it milder.
- Add Protein: Make this dish heartier by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Alternative Noodles: Feel free to use lo mein or spaghetti noodles as a substitute.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, almond or cashew butter can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Q2: Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Snap peas, cucumber, or thinly sliced zucchini would be great additions.
Q3: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure the chili sauce is gluten-free.
Q4: How do I thin the peanut sauce?
Add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Q5: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the noodles and sauce separate until ready to serve for the freshest texture.
Final Thoughts
These Sweet Chili Peanut Noodles are a quick, easy dish that brings together sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors in one satisfying bowl. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, they’re versatile, vibrant, and sure to please anyone who loves bold flavors. Enjoy this delicious noodle dish and make it your own with your favorite add-ins. Happy cooking!
Sweet Chili Peanut Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoon Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup red bell pepper thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
- Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, Thai sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water to thin it out.
Step 3: Combine Noodles, Sauce, and Veggies
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked rice noodles with the peanut sauce until evenly coated. Add the shredded carrots and red bell pepper, mixing gently to combine.
Step 4: Serve
- Transfer the Sweet Chili Peanut Noodles to serving bowls, garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts if desired, and enjoy this flavorful, spicy-sweet dish!
Notes
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more chili sauce or a dash of sriracha for extra heat, or reduce the chili sauce if you prefer it milder.
- Add Protein: Make this dish heartier by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Alternative Noodles: Feel free to use lo mein or spaghetti noodles as a substitute.
