This spicy chicken ramen is a treat for your taste buds! Packed with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and topped with a creamy garlic sauce that adds a nice twist!
You might feel the heat, but trust me, the creamy garlic sauce helps cool things down. I love slurping up those noodles on a cozy night. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Broth: Chicken broth gives depth, but vegetable broth works just as well. For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of miso paste.
Chili Paste: I love using gochujang for a rich, fermented flavor. Sambal oelek is also a great choice. If you’re looking for less heat, try sriracha or skip it altogether!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with olive oil, but it won’t have the same taste.
Mayonnaise: Traditional for the creamy sauce, but Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo are perfect alternatives if you want a lighter or vegan option.
How Do I Get the Broth Just Right?
The broth is essential for flavorful ramen, and giving it attention is key. Start by browning the garlic and ginger to release their aromas. Follow these steps:
- Use medium heat—too high can burn the garlic.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; let flavors meld for at least 15 minutes.
- Adjust the seasoning as it simmers; taste and add more soy sauce or sugar as needed.
This way, you’ll have a delicious base for your ramen!
Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili paste (such as gochujang or sambal oelek)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Ramen:
- 2 packs fresh or dried ramen noodles
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Garnishes:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Soft boiled eggs (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced chili or chili flakes for extra heat
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ramen dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, then about 15-20 minutes for the broth to simmer and develop rich flavors. The final touches, like mixing the sauce and garnishing, will be quick and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sliced ginger. Sauté them until they’re fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn them!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the pot. Sear them until they’re lightly browned on both sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step adds great flavor to the broth.
3. Make the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and water, followed by the soy sauce, chili paste, sesame oil, and sugar. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Simmer and Shred:
Let the broth simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken thighs from the pot, shred them using two forks, and set them aside. Keep the broth on low heat to keep it warm.
5. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the broth is simmering, mix up the creamy garlic sauce! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
6. Cook the Ramen:
Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re ready, drain them and divide them into serving bowls.
7. Assemble Your Ramen:
Pour the hot broth over the noodles in each bowl and then top with the shredded chicken. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top.
8. Add the Final Touches:
Garnish your bowls with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, optional soft-boiled eggs, chili slices or flakes, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a bright finish.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! Enjoy the rich flavors of your fiery chicken ramen with a creamy garlic twist. Happy slurping!
FAQ for Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Other Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While ramen noodles are ideal, you can substitute them with udon, soba, or even rice noodles. Just ensure you adjust the cooking times according to the type of noodle you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Thighs?
You can definitely use chicken breasts if you prefer. For a lighter option, tofu or tempeh will work great for a vegetarian version! Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the broth and shred the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and cook the ramen and prepare the sauce when you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays fresh!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the broth gently on the stove or in the microwave, then add freshly cooked noodles to preserve their texture.
