This spicy chicken ramen is a warm hug in a bowl! The tender chicken and noodles swim in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that packs a flavorful punch.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this comforting dish. I always make a little extra so I can enjoy the leftovers the next day—it’s just as good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs offer extra juiciness, but breasts work too for a leaner option. For a quick fix, feel free to use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Ramen Noodles: Traditional ramen noodles are great, but you can use any instant noodles you have. Just remember to discard those flavor packets; they won’t blend well with the other flavors!
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger deliver the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute powdered garlic and ginger, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. I love using a garlic press for even finer results.
Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: Coconut milk gives a delightful creamy texture with a hint of sweetness. If you prefer, you can use heavy cream or even a non-dairy option like almond milk. Just adjust seasoning to balance flavors.
Chili Paste or Sriracha: These add heat! Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance. If you want a milder flavor, try using a sweet chili sauce instead.
How Can I Make Sure My Ramen Is Extra Creamy?
To achieve the perfect creamy broth, focus on how you mix the coconut milk or cream into the base. Here’s how to do it right:
- After sautéing the garlic, ginger, and onions, ensure the pot isn’t too hot when you add the coconut milk or cream. This prevents curdling.
- Stir the broth continuously to blend the coconut milk or cream smoothly into the mixture.
- Let it simmer gently instead of boiling; this keeps the cream silky without breaking it down.
These simple tips can elevate your ramen, giving you that deliciously rich texture to enjoy in every bite!
How to Make Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 packets ramen noodles (discard flavor packets)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (like sambal oelek) or sriracha
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: boiled egg halves, sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced onions. Sauté everything together until it becomes fragrant and the onions turn translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Create the Broth:
Now, pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add in the soy sauce, chili paste, and chili flakes. Stir well to combine all the flavors together.
4. Make it Creamy:
Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream, creating a wonderfully rich and creamy broth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the ramen noodles to the pot and cook them according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so the noodles don’t stick together.
6. Slice the Chicken:
While the noodles are cooking, take the cooked chicken and slice it into strips. This will make it easy to serve over the ramen.
7. Finish the Broth:
Once the noodles are ready, stir the sesame oil into the broth for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Serve It Up:
Divide the ramen noodles and broth into bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken, green onions, and optionally, boiled egg halves and sesame seeds. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce! It’s a wholesome dish that balances heat with creaminess—perfect for cozy nights or any time you need a flavorful bowl of goodness!
FAQ for Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Other Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While ramen noodles give the best flavor and texture, you can substitute them with udon noodles or any instant noodles you prefer. Just cook according to the package instructions.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili paste and chili flakes. You can also leave out the chili flakes completely and add a little sugar to the broth to balance the flavors.
What Can I Use Instead of Coconut Milk?
If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, heavy cream is a great substitute for that creamy texture. You could also use unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream for a lighter, dairy-free option, but keep in mind the flavor will be a bit different.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the noodles from drying out.
