This Fiery Chicken Ramen is a quick and spicy delight! It combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful noodles, all swimming in a creamy garlic sauce that adds a rich twist.
If you love a bit of heat, you’re in for a treat! I usually whip this up when I want something satisfying and fun. Plus, who doesn’t love slurping noodles? It’s the best part! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but they can dry out a bit. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, try tofu or seitan!
Gochujang: This gives the ramen its kick! If you can’t find gochujang, any chili paste or sriracha can be used, but start with a smaller amount as they can vary in heat.
Ramen Noodles: The recipe calls for instant ramen, but feel free to substitute with fresh ramen or even udon noodles. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Mushrooms: They add great texture and flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them, or use any type of mushroom you like. Bell peppers or zucchini can also be good substitutes for added veggies!
What’s the Best Way to Keep Chicken Juicy in Ramen?
Cooking chicken just right is key! Here’s how to keep it tender:
- Slice the chicken into thin strips to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Heat your oil before adding the chicken; this helps it sear nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give it space to brown.
- Cook until no longer pink but avoid overcooking, which can dry it out. A total of 5-7 minutes is usually enough.
Remember, letting the chicken absorb some of that gochujang and soy sauce during the quick cook adds lots of flavor, making every bite delicious!
Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced thinly
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or any chili paste of your choice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp water (to thin if needed)
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed:
This Fiery Chicken Ramen takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need around 10 minutes to gather ingredients and prep, followed by 20 minutes of cooking time. It’s a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. To make it smoother, add water little by little until you reach your desired consistency. Set this tasty sauce aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 1 minute or until they smell fragrant (be careful not to burn them!).
3. Add the Chicken:
Add the sliced chicken thighs to the pot. Cook, stirring often, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season the Chicken:
Stir in the gochujang and soy sauce, making sure the chicken is well-coated. Cook for another minute to let all those great flavors mix together.
5. Make the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This is where all the magic begins!
6. Add Mushrooms:
If you’re using mushrooms, toss them into the pot now. Lower the heat and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes.
7. Add Ramen Noodles:
Put the ramen noodles into the pot and cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. They’ll start to soften and absorb all the flavors.
8. Add Greens:
Right before the noodles are done, stir in the spinach or bok choy along with the sesame oil. Cook until the greens are just wilted.
9. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your broth. Add salt and pepper if you think it needs a little extra boost.
10. Serve It Up:
Pour the steaming ramen into bowls and drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. Top off with sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Enjoy every spicy, creamy, and comforting bite of your Fiery Chicken Ramen!
Happy slurping! 🍜
FAQ for Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as seafood cooks faster and tofu should be pressed before cooking for the best texture.
What If I Can’t Find Gochujang?
No worries! If gochujang isn’t available, you can use any chili paste, sriracha, or a combination of red pepper flakes and miso for a similar flavor profile. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your heat preference.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this ramen vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables, like carrots and bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the noodles. For optimal taste, it’s best to keep the creamy garlic sauce separate until you’re ready to serve!
