Crispy Sesame Noodle Nest Bites
Crisped noodle nests hold sesame chicken, cucumber, and scallions for a crunchy snack with a diner-counter attitude.
Prep: 12 · Cook: 13 · Total: 25 · Serves: 6 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.7/5 (102 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
This original snack turns a handful of noodles into crisp little cups for a bright sesame filling. Cucumber and rice vinegar keep the chicken light, while chili crisp brings the finish into focus.
Story
Theo wanted a snack with a little architecture and a lot of crunch. The noodle nests come out golden at the edges, the cool cucumber keeps the middle lively, and chili crisp makes every bite point in the right direction. Put them on a tray and watch the first row vanish.
By Theo
Ingredients
- 6 ounces thin rice noodles
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup finely diced cucumber
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Chili crisp, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400 F and grease six cups of a standard muffin pan.
- Soak the rice noodles according to the package directions, drain well, and snip them into shorter strands.
- Toss the noodles with the beaten egg, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt.
- Divide the noodles among the prepared cups, pressing them up the sides to form shallow nests.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are crisp, then cool in the pan for 2 minutes.
- Toss the chicken, cucumber, scallions, soy sauce, vinegar, and honey, fill the nests, and serve with chili crisp.
Chef Tips
- Drain the noodles very well so the nests crisp instead of steaming.
- Press the center down firmly while shaping each nest.
- Swap the chicken for flaked salmon or shredded tofu.
- Fill the nests just before serving for the best crunch.
Cook's Notes
- **Noodles:** Drain thoroughly before tossing.
- **Shape:** Press a clear well into each nest.
- **Serving:** Fill immediately before eating.