This Fiery Chicken Ramen is a tasty bowl of spicy goodness! With tender chicken, flavorful noodles, and a creamy garlic sauce, it packs a real punch that’s sure to warm you up.
Just the thought of slurping up those noodles makes my mouth water! I like to add an extra splash of sauce because, let’s face it, who can resist that creamy goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness and flavor when cooked. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Chili Garlic Sauce: This sauce gives your ramen the heat it needs! If you want less heat, try a sweet chili sauce or even sriracha. For a milder flavor, skip it entirely.
Ramen Noodles: I like using fresh ramen, as it adds great texture. If you can’t find fresh, dried ramen works perfectly fine too. Instant noodles in a pinch? Just skip the flavor packet!
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic offers the best flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder works in a pinch, but I recommend fresh for this creamy sauce!
How Do I Make the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken thighs just right makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes in soy sauce and chili garlic sauce. This helps infuse flavor.
- Heat your skillet on medium heat with oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.
- Make sure it’s fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Slice thin and let the juices settle.
This method ensures that your chicken will be juicy and packed with flavor!
Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
For The Broth:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
For The Noodles:
- 2 packs fresh or dried ramen noodles
For The Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For The Toppings:
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 soft-boiled egg, halved (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fiery Chicken Ramen takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes for cooking, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with soy sauce, half of the chili garlic sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and slice it thinly.
3. Prepare the Broth:
In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle simmer. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the remaining chili garlic sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully.
4. Cook the Ramen:
While the broth is simmering, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant (but don’t let it brown!). Then, stir in the heavy cream and sesame oil, allowing it to simmer gently until warmed through. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
6. Assemble Your Ramen:
To serve, place the cooked ramen noodles in individual bowls. Pour the flavorful spicy chicken broth over the noodles, and top each bowl with the sliced chicken, julienned carrots, sliced green onions, and the halved soft-boiled egg if you decided to add it.
7. Finish with the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Drizzle some of the creamy garlic sauce over each bowl for that delicious richness, and give it a final sprinkle of red chili flakes or fresh chili slices for an extra kick!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your Fiery Chicken Ramen immediately and dive into this comforting, creamy, spicy bowl of goodness. Happy slurping!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, you can add more chili garlic sauce or sprinkle in some red chili flakes when serving. You might also try adding sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the broth for an extra kick!
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 unsweetened almond milk. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly, so choose what suits your taste best!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the noodles and broth separate if possible, as noodles can become soggy over time. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave when ready to eat!
How Can I Prepare This Meal in Advance?
You can marinate the chicken and prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time—just store them in the fridge. You can also chop your vegetables in advance. When you’re ready to eat, just heat the broth, cook the noodles, and assemble!
