Liu Shaokun's Spicy Buckwheat Noodles With Chicken

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Bring broth to a simmer in a 3-quart saucepan, then add chicken and simmer, uncovered, 6 minutes. Remove pan from heat and cover, then let stand until chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and cool at least 10 minutes, reserving broth for another use.

   Step 2

   While chicken is poaching, bring 4 quarts salted cold water to a boil in a 5- to 6-quart saucepan over moderately high heat. Stir in noodles, then 1/2 cup cold water. When water returns to a boil, add another 1/2 cup cold water and bring to a boil again, stirring, then repeat once more, or until noodles are just tender but still firm and chewy throughout.

   Step 3

   Drain noodles in a colander and rinse well under cold water to cool, then drain well. Toss noodles with peanut oil in a large bowl.

   Step 4

   Stir together vinegar, soy sauces, chile oil with sediment, garlic, sugar, and salt in another bowl until sugar is dissolved, then add to noodles and toss until coated.

   Step 5

   Shred chicken with your fingers into 1/4-inch-wide strips and add to noodles, tossing to combine. Sprinkle with scallions and soy nuts.