There’s nothing better than the comforting aroma of honey garlic chicken simmering in one pot, filling your kitchen with a sweet and savory perfume that promises a satisfying meal ahead. Juicy chicken, tender noodles, and a sticky, garlicky sauce come together in a fuss-free dish that feels like takeout – only better.

The first time I made this, it was on a rainy Thursday night with nothing but pantry staples and a leftover chicken breast in the fridge. I tossed everything into one pot out of pure laziness, and what came out was a family favorite we now make on repeat. It’s quick, easy, and leaves you with just one dish to clean – a total win for weeknights.

It’s time to dive into why this One-Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Noodles deserves a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This One-Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Noodles

This recipe is more than just another chicken dinner – it’s a flavor-packed, weeknight lifesaver that’s got a little something for everyone.

First off, it’s a true one-pot wonder. Everything – from browning the chicken to simmering the noodles – happens in a single pan. That means fewer dishes and more time to actually enjoy your evening.

It also comes together in under 35 minutes, which makes it perfect for those nights when you’re starving but don’t want to resort to takeout. Minimal prep, no complicated steps, and the noodles cook right in the sauce – it doesn’t get easier.

Flavor-wise, it’s unbeatable. The combination of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil creates a sticky-sweet glaze that clings to every bite of chicken and noodle. It’s like your favorite stir-fry, but even cozier.

And let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. You’re using basic pantry ingredients and any cut of chicken you’ve got on hand. Add in some frozen or fresh veggies if you like – this dish is super flexible.

Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making little tweaks, adding your own twist. And that’s the beauty of it – easy enough to be your go-to, tasty enough to never get boring.

Let’s take a closer look at the simple ingredients that make this dish so irresistible.

Ingredients Note

What makes this one-pot meal shine is the harmony between humble ingredients and bold flavor. Each component has a job to do, and when combined, they create a dish that tastes way more complex than it is.

Chicken is the star, and you’ve got options. I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay tender and juicy, even with high-heat cooking. Chicken breasts work too – just be careful not to overcook them, or they can dry out a bit. Cut them into small, uniform pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.

The noodles are what make this dish so comforting. I usually go with spaghetti or linguine because they hold up well in the sauce, but you could use ramen noodles, rice noodles, or even fettuccine. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the noodle type.

Honey brings that touch of sweetness that balances the salty, savory notes from the soy sauce and garlic. It’s also what helps give the sauce its irresistible glaze. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or brown sugar can do the trick, though the flavor will shift a bit.

Then there’s the garlic – lots of it. Fresh minced garlic is best, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic paste or pre-minced garlic will still get you that punchy flavor. Combined with a splash of soy sauce and a hint of toasted sesame oil, it creates a sticky, umami-packed sauce that’s truly crave-worthy.

As for equipment, all you need is a large, deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid. A Dutch oven works great too. Just make sure it’s big enough to hold everything comfortably – you’ll need room for the noodles to cook evenly in the sauce.

How To Make This One-Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Noodles

Making this dish is just as easy as it sounds. With a few simple steps and a bit of stirring, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.

Start by heating a bit of oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced chicken pieces. Let them sit for a minute or two to get a good sear before stirring. You want that golden-brown crust – it adds so much flavor. Cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked through, then transfer it to a plate and set aside.

In the same pan, lower the heat slightly and add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in your minced garlic and cook until fragrant – just 30 seconds or so. Be careful not to let it burn. Then pour in your soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Give it all a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Next, add your dry noodles right into the sauce. Push them down gently so they’re submerged as much as possible. Cover the pan and let the noodles simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. They’ll absorb all that saucy goodness as they cook.

Once the noodles are nearly tender, return the chicken to the pan and stir everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth or water. If it’s too loose, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes until it thickens up and clings to the noodles.

Finish with a handful of chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you’ve got them. The whole process takes about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, and the result is a sticky, savory, and satisfying bowl of comfort.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? You’re in luck – this dish keeps beautifully and reheats like a dream.

Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get even better as they sit, making this a great make-ahead lunch.

If you want to freeze it, let everything cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen things up.

To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Or warm on the stovetop over low heat with a touch of added liquid. Just be sure not to overcook the noodles when reheating – you want them soft but not mushy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re using what’s on hand or catering to dietary needs, this dish is endlessly flexible.

Looking to add more veggies? Go for it! Toss in broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas when you add the noodles. They’ll steam right in the pot and soak up that tasty sauce.

If you’re gluten-free, simply swap the regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, and use your favorite gluten-free noodles. Just be sure to check cooking times on the noodle package.

Want it spicy? Add a dash of sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes into the sauce. It gives the sweet and savory base a little kick that balances everything beautifully.

You can also switch up the protein. Shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef work great here. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and enjoy the same delicious result.

Feel free to experiment with whatever’s in your fridge or pantry. This one-pot wonder is designed to be easygoing and adaptable, so make it your own!