This tasty Fiery Chicken Ramen is a quick and warm dish, featuring juicy chicken and spicy broth that’s full of flavor. The creamy garlic sauce adds a smooth touch that makes it extra yummy!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this meal when you’re craving something spicy. I often add extra veggies for color and crunch—plus, it makes me feel like I’m being healthy! 🌶️🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite because they stay juicy. You can also use chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Ramen Noodles: I recommend fresh ramen for the best texture. If you can’t find it, instant ramen works too—just toss the seasoning packet! You can also use udon or rice noodles as a fun twist.
Broth: Chicken broth gives great flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for those looking for a lighter or vegetarian base. Homemade broth is great if you have the time!
Chili Garlic Sauce: Adjust the spice to your liking! If you’re not a fan of heat, try using sweet chili sauce or simply skip it and add a small dash of regular hot sauce.
Creamy Sauce Ingredients: Instead of heavy cream, you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option or Greek yogurt mixed with water for a lighter sauce. Vegenaise is a vegan alternative to mayonnaise.
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Garlic Sauce?
The creamy garlic sauce is what makes this dish stand out. Here’s how to prepare it perfectly:
- Start by sautéing minced garlic gently in a little oil or butter. Avoid browning it to keep the flavor fresh.
- Add the heavy cream or your chosen alternative to the pan. This helps the sauce develop a nice, smooth texture.
- Mix in the mayonnaise for an extra layer of creaminess. Don’t rush this step—allow it to warm slowly to blend flavors well.
- Stir in the rice vinegar or lemon juice, and a bit of sugar helps balance the flavors—taste and adjust as needed!
Get ready for a delicious and rich sauce that complements the spicy broth beautifully. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Fiery Chicken Ramen With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Ramen:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (fresh or instant, discard seasoning packets)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 soft-boiled egg per serving (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili flakes or sliced fresh chili for garnish (optional)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ramen recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through—about 5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for a couple of minutes, then slice it thinly.
2. Make the Broth:
In a medium pot, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, minced ginger, and half of the minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for a few minutes.
3. Cook the Noodles and Veggies:
Once the broth is simmering, add the ramen noodles along with the sliced mushrooms, if using. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions (usually about 3-4 minutes). Near the end of cooking, stir in the baby spinach or bok choy to wilt it down.
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small pan, melt a little butter or oil over medium heat. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown. Stir in the heavy cream, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil, mixing well. Cook this gently until everything is warmed through and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Divide the cooked noodles and broth into serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken and drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Finish with green onions and, if you like, some chili flakes or sliced fresh chili for an extra kick. A soft-boiled egg can also be added for that perfect touch!
6. Serve Immediately:
Your Fiery Chicken Ramen With Creamy Garlic Sauce is ready to enjoy! Dive in and savor the amazing spicy and creamy flavors!
This recipe brings together the warmth of a spicy broth with the richness of creamy garlic sauce, creating an unforgettable ramen experience!
FAQ for Fiery Chicken Ramen With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed first! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While the ramen is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the broth, cook the chicken, and make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the broth and noodles just before serving.
What if I Don’t Have Ramen Noodles?
No problem! You can substitute the ramen noodles with other types of noodles like udon, soba, or even rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodle you choose, following the package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the broth and noodles gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to restore the consistency.
