This spicy chicken ramen brings a zing to your dinner table! Loaded with tender chicken, noodles, and a creamy garlic sauce, it’s a comforting bowl of deliciousness.
You might need a glass of water next to you, but trust me, that kick makes it worth it! I love how quickly I can whip this up for a cozy night in. 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish since they cook quickly. You can substitute with boneless thighs for a juicier option, or even use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Ramen Noodles: I love using instant ramen here, but you could swap for udon or soba noodles if you prefer a different texture. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure they don’t overcook!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. Just ensure it thickens slightly for a creamy texture.
Red Chili Paste/Sriracha: The heat level can be adjusted to your taste. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, try using a milder sauce like sweet chili sauce. If you’re craving heat, chili oil can also do the job.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Ramen Noodles?
Cooking ramen noodles can be tricky if you want them just right. They should be tender but still slightly chewy. Here’s a quick guide:
- Start by boiling the chicken broth. It’ll add extra flavor to the noodles!
- Once the broth is simmering, add the ramen noodles the package instructions suggest—usually around 3 minutes.
- After adding the noodles, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste a noodle to check if it’s perfect before draining.
Keep an eye on them because overcooked noodles can turn mushy—nobody wants that! Enjoy the warm, comforting bite that complements your fiery broth!
Fiery Chicken Ramen With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 2 packets ramen noodles (discard seasoning)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious fiery chicken ramen takes about 25 minutes from start to finish! It includes about 10 minutes for preparation and roughly 15 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick yet comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a large pot or a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook it until it’s golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes on each side. After cooking, remove the chicken from the pot, let it rest briefly, and then slice it thinly to add to the ramen later.
2. Make the Broth Base:
Using the same pot, add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté these ingredients until they are fragrant and the onion turns translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. This allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together!
3. Add Spice and Liquids:
Now, stir in the red chili paste or sriracha to bring that fiery kick! Next, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This simmering time helps develop all that delicious flavor.
4. Cook the Noodles and Veggies:
Add the ramen noodles to the boiling broth and cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 3 minutes. If you decided to use the optional mushrooms and shredded carrots, toss them in to cook alongside the noodles for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small saucepan or skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and whisk it continuously until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened. Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
6. Combine and Finish:
To serve, divide the cooked noodles and the spicy broth into bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over each bowl for that luscious, creamy touch!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle your fiery ramen with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for some extra flair. For a finishing touch, drizzle a bit of sesame oil over it to elevate the flavors.
8. Enjoy Immediately!
Dig into your bowl of hot and spicy fiery chicken ramen! This dish perfectly balances the heat from the broth with that rich, creamy garlic sauce, making every spoonful utterly comforting!
FAQ for Fiery Chicken Ramen With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or with a quick method by submerging it in cold water in a sealed plastic bag. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning and cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based option like coconut milk. Both will give a nice creaminess to the sauce, but be aware that coconut milk will add a subtle coconut flavor to the dish.
How to Store Leftover Ramen?
Store any leftover ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the noodles, and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Keep the creamy garlic sauce stored separately if possible to maintain the best texture!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love a spicy kick, feel free to increase the amount of red chili paste or sriracha to your taste. You can also top your finished ramen with additional red pepper flakes for an extra burst of heat!
