This spicy chicken ramen brings a zesty kick with tender chicken and slurpy noodles, all topped with a creamy garlic sauce that makes every bite delicious! It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Honestly, the creamy garlic sauce is what makes this dish shine! I often add a sprinkle of green onions on top for a fresh crunch. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy and tasty it is!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are great for their juicy flavor, but you can use breasts if you prefer a leaner option. For a quicker meal, shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute too!
Chili Garlic Sauce: This adds spice to the dish. If you like it milder, go for sriracha. Or, for a different kick, try a few dashes of hot sauce or even crushed red pepper flakes.
Noodles: Traditional ramen noodles are ideal, but you can use udon or even soba noodles in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the noodle type you choose.
Mayonnaise: I love using Kewpie mayo for a richer taste, but regular mayonnaise works just fine. Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative if you’re looking to cut calories.
How Do You Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken properly is crucial for this recipe! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning. This ensures the chicken cooks through evenly.
- Don’t rush it! Let each side brown for about 5-7 minutes. You want a nice golden color.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices in!
By following these steps, your chicken will be flavorful and perfectly tender, setting the stage for a delicious bowl of ramen. Enjoy!
Spicy Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packs fresh or dried ramen noodles
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste for spice)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- 1 soft boiled egg per serving (optional)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Japanese Kewpie mayo
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 2 tbsp milk or cream
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, garlic, and ginger, followed by boiling the noodles and assembling everything. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) and cook them until they are nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté them for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant—this adds so much flavor!
3. Make the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring everything together to combine the flavors.
4. Cook Noodles and Vegetables:
Add the ramen noodles (and sliced mushrooms if you’re using them) to the simmering broth. Cook according to the noodle package instructions—usually about 3-4 minutes is perfect for the noodles to become tender.
5. Shred Chicken:
While the noodles cook, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your fingers. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot once the noodles are ready!
6. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, milk or cream, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. If you want a thinner consistency, add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired creaminess.
7. Assemble the Ramen Bowls:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Divide the noodles and broth into bowls. Top each bowl with the warmed shredded chicken, and if you’d like, add a soft boiled egg cut in half. Drizzle a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce over the top.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch. Serve the ramen hot and enjoy the delightful blend of spicy and creamy flavors! It’s a bowl of comfort that’s sure to impress.
This recipe blends the savory heat of spicy ramen with a rich, garlicky twist that makes it uniquely comforting. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Spicy Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their moisture and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts or even rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as rotisserie chicken only needs to be warmed through.
What Can I Use Instead of Ramen Noodles?
If you don’t have ramen, you can substitute with udon or soba noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since different noodles have varying cooking requirements. You can even use rice noodles for a gluten-free option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may soak up the broth, so it’s best to reheat the soup and noodles separately to keep them from becoming mushy. Add a little water or broth when reheating if needed.
Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the creamy garlic sauce a day ahead! Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Give it a good stir before using it to bring everything back together. Enjoy the convenience of meal prep!
