This spicy chicken ramen is a bowl of happiness! Tender chicken floats in a broth that’s both fiery and creamy, thanks to the rich garlic sauce. It’s a hearty meal for any noodle lover!
I can’t help but slurp those noodles! They’re just too good. Pair this dish with a sprinkle of green onions, and you’ll be in flavor heaven. Trust me, your taste buds will dance! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are great for this recipe as they stay juicy, but breasts work too. For a lighter option, try turkey. If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute with tofu or tempeh, which absorb flavors well.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth. If you prefer vegetarian ramen, use vegetable broth. Homemade broth is even tastier, or low-sodium versions are a good option to control salt levels.
Ramen Noodles: Fresh ramen noodles give the best texture, but you can substitute with dried instant ramen or even rice noodles if needed. Just be mindful of cooking times.
Chili Paste: Sambal oelek or gochujang provides a nice heat. For a milder flavor, decrease the amount or substitute with sriracha. Adjust to your heat preference!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the sauce rich, a lighter version could use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Both will add creaminess!
How Do You Make Sure Your Broth Is Packed with Flavor?
The broth is the heart of your ramen, so it needs to be full of flavor. Start by sautéing garlic and ginger in oil; this creates a fragrant base. Here’s how to get a rich broth:
- Use medium heat to sauté garlic and ginger for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not burnt.
- After adding chicken, season well with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Let your broth simmer gently for about 10 minutes to blend all the flavors together. Don’t rush this step!
By taking your time, your broth will be delicious and comforting, making your ramen a standout dish!
Fiery Chicken Ramen With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packs fresh or dried ramen noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (e.g., sambal oelek or gochujang)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ramen dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking, so you can have it ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal after a busy day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as that can alter the flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the thinly sliced chicken to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Stir and cook until the chicken is cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes. It should be nice and tender!
3. Flavor it Up:
Stir in the chili paste and soy sauce, making sure the chicken is well-coated. This adds that yummy kick and depth of flavor that we love!
4. Create the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps all the flavors mix together beautifully.
5. Prepare the Noodles:
While your broth is simmering, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
6. Make it Creamy:
Lower the heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream and toasted sesame oil into your pot of broth. This is what gives the ramen its creamy garlic sauce! Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want some extra kick!
7. Assemble Your Ramen:
Divide the cooked noodles into serving bowls. Then, ladle the spicy, creamy chicken broth over the noodles, making sure to get some of that lovely chicken and broth into each bowl.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Top your ramen with the sliced green onions and julienned carrots for a colorful finish. They add a nice crunch and freshness!
9. Enjoy!
Serve hot, and enjoy the warmth and flavors of your fiery chicken ramen with creamy garlic sauce. Get ready for some serious comfort food bliss!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked chicken, simply skip the sautéing step and add the leftover chicken to the broth when you pour in the chicken broth. Heat until warmed through!
How Can I Make This Ramen Spicier?
If you love spice, feel free to increase the amount of chili paste or add more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking for an extra kick!
Can I Freeze Leftover Ramen?
Yes, you can freeze the broth separately from the noodles. Store the broth in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat and serve with freshly cooked noodles!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream to achieve a similar creaminess. Just be aware that they will slightly change the flavor profile of the dish!
