If you love a kick in your meal, this Fiery Chicken Ramen is just the dish for you! With tender chicken, cozy noodles and a creamy garlic sauce, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
I always find myself sneaking extra spoonfuls of that creamy sauce! Pair it with your favorite veggies for a colorful twist. It’s quick to whip up, so you’ll be slurping in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can use rotisserie chicken and shred it up.
Chili Paste: I love sriracha for its flavor and heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try gochujang for a unique taste. If you want a milder dish, reduce the amount or skip it altogether.
Broth: Chicken broth is a must for that rich flavor, but vegetable broth is a great vegetarian substitute. Just make sure it’s low-sodium to control the salt level.
Milk or Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously creamy, but you can swap it for coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind it’ll add its own flavor.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute while still providing creaminess without being too rich.
How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Garlic Sauce?
The creamy garlic sauce is the heart of this dish. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. This provides a rich base for your sauce.
- Add minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring it for just a minute. You don’t want it to brown, so keep an eye on it!
- Then, mix in the garlic powder, milk or cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Heat gently while stirring until it thickens slightly. This may take a few minutes. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.
Remember, you can always adjust the flavors to your preference, so don’t hesitate to experiment a bit!
Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (like sriracha or gochujang) – adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Green onions, chopped
- Soft boiled eggs (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season your chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Then, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn, as that can make your dish taste bitter!
3. Making the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Add the soy sauce, chili paste, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Cooking the Noodles:
Add the ramen noodles to the broth and cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Use chopsticks or a fork to separate them gently as they cook.
5. Preparing the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the noodles are cooking, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for just a minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the garlic powder, milk or heavy cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Heat gently while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Finishing Touches:
Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Now it’s time to assemble your bowls! Divide the cooked ramen noodles and broth between bowls, and top with the sliced chicken.
7. Drizzle and Garnish:
Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the ramen and chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions, soft boiled eggs if you like, and sesame seeds for a delightful crunch!
8. Time to Serve:
Serve your Fiery Chicken Ramen immediately and enjoy this perfect balance of fiery heat and creamy garlic flavor. Each bite is sure to be a delight!
FAQ for Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for instant ramen noodles, you can use fresh ramen noodles or even rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you’re using to ensure they don’t become overcooked.
How Spicy Is This Dish and Can I Adjust the Heat?
The spice level largely depends on how much chili paste and red pepper flakes you use. For a milder dish, start with less chili paste and add more as needed. You can also replace the chili paste with a sweet chili sauce for a milder option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ramen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the soupiness. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For the creamy sauce, just replace the mayonnaise and cream with plant-based alternatives to keep it vegan-friendly!
