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pf chang s dan dan noodles

Spicy Dan Dan Noodles (PF Chang Copycat)

These bold and flavorful Spicy Dan Dan Noodles deliver restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes. The perfect balance of savory chicken, aromatic garlic and ginger, and an addictively spicy-sweet sauce creates an irresistible dish that will elevate your weeknight dinner routine.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

  • 6 ounces chow mein noodles or Chinese egg noodles
  • 2 tablespoons peanut oil plus extra for cooking chicken
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
  • tablespoons minced garlic
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ½ cup chopped green onions
  • ½ cup water for cornstarch slurry
  • ½ cup bean sprouts or peanuts for garnish
  • ¾ cup chicken broth
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • cup dark brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons sambal oelek chile-garlic sauce

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large pot

Method
 

  1. Heat a small amount of peanut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breast fillets for 10-12 minutes until completely cooked through. Set aside to cool.
  2. While chicken cools, cook the chow mein or Chinese egg noodles according to package directions, typically 3-5 minutes in boiling water. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped green onions, cooking just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the minced ginger and stir for another 15 seconds.
  5. Pour in the soy sauce, chicken broth, dark brown sugar, and sambal oelek. Stir to combine.
  6. In a small bowl, create a slurry by mixing the cornstarch with water until smooth. Add this mixture to the wok and stir continuously.
  7. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
  8. Finely chop or shred the cooled chicken and add it to the sauce. Simmer everything together for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  9. Place the cooked noodles on serving plates and generously spoon the chicken and sauce mixture over the top.
  10. Garnish with bean sprouts or peanuts before serving for added texture and flavor.

Notes

Adjust the sambal oelek to your heat preference - add an extra teaspoon for more spice. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with extra-firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The noodles are best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
For a gluten-free option, use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.