This Spicy Chicken Ramen is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, chewy noodles, and a deliciously creamy garlic sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Who knew spicy could be this comforting? I love slurping up the noodles while savoring the garlic flavor. It makes me feel like a pro chef—even if I’m just in my pajamas! 😂
Making this ramen is super easy. Just cook the chicken, boil the noodles, and mix in that creamy sauce. Dinner is ready in no time—perfect for busy evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breasts work well too. Feel free to use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that fragrant flavor! If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch (1/8 tsp = 1 clove). But fresh really enhances the taste.
Ramen Noodles: Instant ramen is super convenient! If you can’t find it, any quick-cooking noodle like udon or rice noodles can be a good substitute.
Chili Paste: I prefer gochujang for its unique flavor, but sambal oelek or even sriracha will do! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can swap in coconut milk or half-and-half. These will still give you a creamy texture without all the calories!
How Do I Ensure My Garlic Stays Fragrant Without Burning?
Garlic can easily go from fragrant to burnt, so watch it closely! Here’s my tip:
- Cook garlic on medium heat until it’s just fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. Don’t rush!
- If you’re worried about burning, add it after sautéing ginger, which usually takes longer.
- Keep stirring to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Perfectly sautéed garlic adds amazing depth to your ramen without bitterness!
Spicy Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili paste (such as gochujang or sambal oelek)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
For Toppings:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 soft-boiled egg per serving (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the chicken, and then about 20 minutes putting it all together. It’s quick and satisfies your cravings for something spicy and creamy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. Be sure to stir them frequently to prevent burning!
3. Making the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, chili paste, and sesame oil. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. This is where all the yummy flavors start to come together!
4. Letting the Flavors Meld:
Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This will really help the flavors develop and deepen.
5. Preparing the Noodles:
While the broth is simmering, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the ramen noodles to the broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually 3-4 minutes, until they’re tender.
6. Adding Creaminess:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using) until the broth is nice and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
7. Final Touches:
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir until heated through. Everything should be combined and warmed up beautifully!
8. Serving Your Ramen:
Serve the ramen in bowls, topped with sliced green onions, a soft-boiled egg if you’re using one, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a lovely touch!
9. Enjoy!
Take a moment to admire your creation before diving in. Enjoy your comforting bowl of spicy chicken ramen with creamy garlic sauce—it’s a delightful treat!
FAQ for Spicy Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Bones-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked. Consider simmering the chicken pieces in the broth first, then remove them to shred before adding the noodles.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for an extra kick, you can add more chili paste or sprinkle in red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also drizzle some sriracha on top when serving for an added punch.
Can I Store Leftovers and Reheat Them Later?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken as it sits. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with tofu or mushrooms and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a delicious vegan option!
