Get ready for a bowl of spicy goodness with this Fiery Chicken Ramen! The tender chicken and slurp-worthy noodles come together in a creamy garlic sauce that brings everything to life.
This dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something warm and comforting. I love adding extra veggies, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t enjoy a little extra spice? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless skinless thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re keeping it plant-based, tofu or seitan can make a great substitute.
Ramen Noodles: Standard ramen noodles are perfect here, but you could try udon or rice noodles if you prefer. Just be aware that cooking times may vary.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you might substitute with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream. Greek yogurt can also be used as an alternative, just stir it in at the end to avoid curdling.
Chili Paste/Sriracha: Adjust the spice level to your preference. If you aren’t a fan of heat, you can skip them entirely or use a mild sauce.
Miso Paste: This adds depth of flavor, but if you don’t have it, simply increase the soy sauce a bit for a tasty alternative.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward. Here’s what to focus on:
- Slice the chicken thinly for quick cooking. This helps it to cook evenly and soak up the flavors.
- Cook on medium-high heat, which is hot enough to get a nice sear without burning.
- Don’t rush it! Ensure the chicken is cooked through until the juices run clear, which takes about 5-6 minutes.
- Toss in your seasonings (salt, pepper, and chili paste) while cooking to build that flavor right into the meat.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly tender chicken that enhances your whole ramen dish!
Fiery Chicken Ramen With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), sliced thinly
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1-2 tbsp chili paste or sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp miso paste (optional, for depth)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Optional: soft boiled eggs for topping
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. This builds a wonderful flavor base for your ramen.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Now, it’s time to enhance the fragrance! Add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger to the pot. Cook them for another minute until their delightful aroma fills your kitchen.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Next up, toss in the sliced chicken. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned and cooked through. This ensures all those flavors meld beautifully.
4. Spice It Up:
Now for some heat! Stir in your choice of chili paste or sriracha, letting it cook for 1-2 minutes. This way, the spice will infuse into the chicken nicely.
5. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. If you’re using miso paste for a hit of umami, add that too! Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
6. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate small saucepan, gently warm the heavy cream until it’s hot, but don’t let it boil. This creamy element will bring a luxurious texture to your ramen.
7. Combine for Creaminess:
Carefully pour the warm heavy cream into the broth mixture, stirring it together to form your creamy garlic sauce. It’s going to be delicious!
8. Cook the Noodles:
Now, add the ramen noodles and julienned carrots to the simmering broth. Cook according to the package instructions (usually about 3-4 minutes) until the noodles are just tender.
9. Add Greens:
Just before you finish cooking, stir in the baby spinach or bok choy along with the sesame oil. Cook for a couple of minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant.
10. Serve:
Time to dish it up! Serve the ramen into bowls topped with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and if you like, a soft boiled egg for extra protein.
11. Enjoy:
Dig into your Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce while it’s hot! This comforting bowl is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Enjoy exploring the layers of flavor and spice in this delightful dish!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken would work great. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the broth during the final simmer. This will help heat it through without overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water, but if you use water, consider adding extra seasonings or a dash of soy sauce to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or seitan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your soy sauce is vegetarian-friendly. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the meal!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may soak up some broth, so you might want to add a bit more liquid when reheating.
