Easy Peanut Noodles

1 9.5 oz. pkg. Japanese-style noodles, or 1/2 lb. spaghetti
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
3-4 Tbsp. dark soy sauce (I like tamari the best--it's really thick)
3-4 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. fresh ginger1
/4 tsp. garlic powder, or 1 clove minced garlic
1/4-1/2 tsp. sambal oelek (fresh red chile paste--use sparingly because it's SPICY)
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped finely
1 cooked chicken breast, shredded

Prepare noodles according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water and drain noodles. (Use salted water.) Place in a large serving bowl and keep warm.

While the noodles are cooking, place peanut butter and brown sugar in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Place in the microwave for about 30 seconds--just long enough to melt it slightly. Add the remaining ingredients and stir to mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning to taste. Toss the noodles with the peanut sauce and add the pasta water, if necessary, so the sauce evenly coats the noodles. Add the shredded chicken, if using, and sprinkle with peanuts. Serves 4.

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