How to Make the Perfect Yakisoba
Japanese · Easy · 22 min · 4 servings

Yakisoba is a Japanese stir fried noodle dish packed with colorful vegetables and savory sauce that is a go to kid friendly recipe for busy weeknights. The soft noodles and sweet tangy yakisoba sauce are a combination children find absolutely delicious and satisfying.
Why this recipe works
This Yakisoba recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 22 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 390 calories with 14g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 400 g yakisoba noodles or ramen noodles
- 200 g chicken thigh sliced thin
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 medium carrot julienned
- 4 tbsp yakisoba sauce or worcestershire sauce mixed with soy sauce
- 2 stalks green onions sliced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
If using dried noodles cook according to package directions then drain and rinse. If using pre cooked yakisoba noodles loosen them gently by hand or briefly microwave for 30 seconds to separate the strands.
Step 2: Stir Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through and lightly golden on the edges.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Noodles
Add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrot to the pan and stir fry for 2 minutes. Add the noodles and pour the yakisoba sauce over everything then toss vigorously using tongs to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Continue stir frying for another minute until the sauce coats every strand of noodle and everything is piping hot. Divide into bowls and top with sliced green onions before serving.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- chicken thigh → thinly sliced pork belly for a more traditional yakisoba
- yakisoba sauce → 2 tbsp worcestershire sauce mixed with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp sugar
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcrowding the pan which causes the ingredients to steam instead of stir fry properly
- Adding too much sauce which makes the noodles soggy instead of nicely glazed
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 390 calories, 14g protein, 62g carbs, 10g fat, 4g fiber.
Ready to cook?
Get the interactive recipe with adjustable servings, built-in timers, and ingredient checklist.
View full recipe →