This fiery chicken ramen is a tasty blend of spicy chicken and soft noodles, all topped with a creamy garlic sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how the garlic sauce adds a smooth touch to the spicy kick. Perfect for those chilly nights when you need something comforting! 🍜🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well too. For a twist, diced tofu can be a great substitute for a vegetarian meal!
Ramen Noodles: Instant ramen noodles are quick and easy. For a fresher bite, consider using fresh ramen noodles. And if you can’t find ramen, any Asian noodle like udon or soba can work too.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought works just fine. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Just check for flavorings that fit your taste.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are key for that punchy flavor. In a pinch, you could use garlic powder and ground ginger, but fresh really amplifies the taste!
Chili Garlic Sauce: This brings heat to the dish! Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. You can swap it for sriracha or any hot sauce you like if you need something more accessible.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Garlic Sauce?
The creamy garlic sauce adds a wonderful richness to the ramen. Start by whisking mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce in a bowl. If it’s too thick, add water slowly until you hit that creamy consistency. Remember, it’s a sauce, not a dip!
- Mix mayo with garlic and lemon juice first for a base.
- Add soy sauce and sesame oil for umami and depth.
- Thin it out with water if needed to your preferred consistency.
Letting it sit for a few minutes can enhance the flavors too. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your ramen!
Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 12 oz (340g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 packets of ramen noodles (or 4 oz fresh ramen noodles)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (such as sambal oelek) — adjust to taste
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup spinach or bok choy, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp water (to thin if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking. In a total of about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a full-bodied, comforting bowl of fiery chicken ramen ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. If the sauce appears too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until it’s smooth but still creamy. Set this sauce aside for later!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until aromatic, which should take about 1 minute. Then, toss in the sliced chicken and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Build Flavor:
Next, stir in the chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Let this mixture cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing all those flavors to combine wonderfully.
4. Make the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. This will form the delicious base for your ramen.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the ramen noodles to the simmering broth, cooking according to the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes). In the last minute of cooking, add the chopped spinach or bok choy so it wilts beautifully.
6. Assemble the Ramen Bowls:
Once everything is cooked, divide the broth, noodles, and chicken among serving bowls. Spoon generous dollops of the creamy garlic sauce over the top.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your ramen with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy the fiery and creamy goodness of your chicken ramen!
This comforting yet spicy ramen combines heat from the chili sauce with the rich, mellow garlic creaminess, making for a balanced and delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with sliced beef, pork, or even shrimp for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking times as needed, especially for seafood!
What If I Don’t Have Chili Garlic Sauce?
No problem! You can use sriracha, sambal, or any hot sauce you prefer. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your heat preference, as some sauces can be spicier than others.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also skip the creamy garlic sauce or substitute it with vegan mayo to keep it plant-based!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ramen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the noodles, as they may absorb liquid while stored.
