Creamy Peanut Noodles (30-Minute, One-Pot recipe!)

Looking for a quick dinner that tastes better than takeout? These creamy peanut noodles are healthy, indulgent, and ready in just 30 minutes.

Craving takeout but in the mood for a healthier option? These creamy peanut noodles are about to become your new favourite weeknight dinner. One pot, 30 minutes, and you will have a cozy meal that’s totally satisfying… you’ll be happy you skipped the takeout.

As a dietitian, I’m all about meals that feel indulgent and check the nutrition boxes, and this one-pot wonder absolutely does. With a creamy peanut-coconut broth, lean protein, fibre-rich veggies, and ramen noodles, this dish hits every mark for a balanced and satisfying dinner.

Why this recipe is dietitian-approved

• One pot magic – This recipe only requires one pot, it’s ready in 30 minutes, and requires minimal cleanup.
• Creamy, flavourful, and satisfying –  For guaranteed enjoyment.
• Has both protein and fibre – From the chicken and vegetables.
• Healthier than takeout – Lower in sodium and saturated fat, and made with real ingredients.

Ingredients to make creamy peanut noodles

• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) light coconut milk
• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup Thai red curry paste
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 squares ramen noodles
• Juice of 1 lime
• 3 cups baby spinach
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, plus more for serving
• Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

How to make creamy peanut noodles

Simmer the broth base:

In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, and red curry paste. Set over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. While the broth is heating up, prepare your veggies.

Add the chicken and veggies:

Once simmering, add the chicken breasts, mushrooms, red bell peppers, ginger, and garlic. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Shred the chicken:

Then, remove the chicken from the pot, shred with two forks, and return it to the pot. Alternatively, add the chicken to a bowl and shred using a mixer to keep things simple.

Finish with noodles and greens:

Bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, turn off the heat and stir in the ramen noodles, lime juice, spinach, and cilantro. Let it sit for 5 minutes, until the noodles are soft and spinach is wilted.

Serve:

Portion the creamy peanut noodles into bowls and top with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and extra cilantro if you’d like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I meal-prep creamy peanut noodles?

Absolutely! For best results, cook the noodles separately and add them when you’re ready to serve. This prevents them from getting mushy.

Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Just swap the chicken for egg, tofu or edamame and leave out the honey.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce and swap the ramen for gluten-free ramen or rice noodles to make it fully gluten-free.

Substitutions and variations

• Protein options: Try turkey, tofu, eggs, or edamame.
• Noodle swaps: Use soba, udon, or rice noodles.
• Boost the fibre by doubling mushrooms and peppers, or adding edamame, snow peas, shredded carrots, or broccoli.
• Make it spicy: Add a squeeze of sriracha or chili garlic sauce

How to store creamy peanut noodles

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Tip! Keep the noodles separate if meal prepping, and add them to the soup just before serving to prevent them form going mushy.

Other recipes you will love

• Healthier Buffalo Chicken Dip: High-Protein, Low-Fat & Easy!
• Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Chicken (easy weeknight recipe!)
• Easy Greek Cottage Cheese Bowls (30g protein recipe)

If you make my Creamy Peanut Noodles, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @TheHealthyLivingRD so I can see your delicious creations!