
Chilli garlic noodles are my go-to when I crave something bold and comforting in under fifteen minutes. The combination of smoky homemade chilli oil and freshly chopped herbs creates layers of flavour that rival any takeout—all with simple ingredients found in your pantry or local Asian store.
This was my lifesaver one Friday night when I needed a tasty meal without spending forever in the kitchen. Now it is a weeknight ritual when we want something warming and satisfying with barely any effort.
Ingredients
- Dried wheat noodles or fresh wheat noodles: choose the freshest you can find for the best texture
- Coriander finely chopped: adds brightness and freshness so pick vibrant green leaves
- Spring onions finely chopped: for crunch and sweet sharpness look for firm white bottoms and lively greens
- Homemade crispy chilli oil: for extra depth and heat you can skip if you prefer mild
- Chilli powder or flakes: brings the signature kick select good quality for real flavour
- Garlic minced: is a must have for robust aroma and taste use fresh cloves for punch
- White sugar: balances the heat and rounds out the sauce try to use fine granules
- Neutral tasting oil like sunflower or canola: heats up cleanly and lets the aromatics shine
- Soy sauce: brings umami choose naturally brewed soy for depth
- Black vinegar: adds gentle tang hesitate if you cannot find it rice vinegar works in a pinch
- Sesame oil: for lovely nuttiness a little goes a long way pick toasted if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Chilli Garlic Base:
- In a large heatproof bowl combine your chilli powder or flakes minced garlic and sugar This will be the base for infusing all the spicy garlicky goodness
- Heat the Oil:
- Warm up neutral oil in a small saucepan on medium high Once you see ripples or a faint smoke it is hot enough to pour Watch closely to avoid burning
- Infuse the Aromatics:
- Carefully pour the hot oil over your chilli garlic mixture Stir immediately with chopsticks to bloom the flavours and avoid burning then add soy sauce black vinegar and sesame oil Stir well
- Divide the Sauce:
- Pour this chilli garlic sauce into two big serving bowls This ensures the noodles get evenly coated when mixed
- Cook Noodles:
- Prepare the noodles: boil according to the package Just three minutes for wheat noodles Drain thoroughly to prevent sogginess
- Combine and Garnish:
- Add your cooked noodles straight into the bowl over the sauce Top generously with chopped coriander spring onions and a spoonful of crispy chilli oil if you want more punch
- Mix and Serve:
- Toss everything together until the noodles gleam with the sauce It is ready to eat piping hot

My favorite part is pouring hot oil over the chilies and garlic that sizzle always takes me back to Sunday noodle nights with my family Everyone would crowd into the kitchen just to inhale that spicy fragrance while fighting over who gets the first bowl
How to Store
For best taste eat straight away The noodles soak up the sauce fast For leftovers let cool then store in an airtight box in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently in a microwave or a pan adding a splash of water to loosen
Ingredient Swaps
- Use rice noodles for a gluten free version
- If you are out of black vinegar a splash of white or rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar works
- Adjust the heat by varying your chilli powder or using mild flakes
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with boiled eggs sliced in half for protein
- Goes amazing as a side with pork wontons dumplings or soy garlic chicken wings
- Add a handful of sautéed greens for a more complete meal
Noodle Origins
These noodles are inspired by classic Chinese street food traditions where quick tosses in hot oil transformed simple ingredients I learned this mix from a friend whose family had a noodle stall thick air always heavy with garlic and chili

Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh noodles instead of dried?
Yes, you can use either dried or fresh wheat noodles. Fresh noodles have a softer texture and cook quickly.
- → Is the dish very spicy?
You can adjust the spice level by using less or more chilli powder or flakes to suit your taste.
- → What oils work best for this preparation?
Neutral-tasting oils like sunflower, grapeseed, or canola are ideal for infusing the chilli garlic flavors.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat before eating for best results.
- → Which garnishes enhance the dish?
Top with finely chopped coriander, spring onions, and a drizzle of crispy chilli oil for extra flavor and texture.