Name: Easy Chicken Ramen
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 skinless chicken breasts; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 1 tsp ground ginger; 6 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup soy sauce (for broth); 2 tbsp mirin (for broth); 2 packs of your favorite ramen noodles; 2 egg yolks; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tsp minced garlic (for serving); 2 boiled eggs; Scallions; Bok choy

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of ramen. Imagine the rich aroma of a savory broth wafting through your kitchen, teasing your senses with its promise of warmth and satisfaction. The vibrant colors — golden noodles, glistening greens, and tender chicken — create a visual feast that you just can’t resist. This Easy Chicken Ramen is everything you need to cozy up this season, transforming your day with just a few simple ingredients. I remember my first time slurping noodles at a small ramen shop with friends, the joyful ambience and laughter filling the air. It’s those little moments that inspired me to recreate that magic at home, especially on chilly nights when comfort food is key.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easy Chicken Ramen
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easy Chicken Ramen

This recipe not only brings back fond memories but also offers an effortless way to enjoy a delightful bowl of homemade ramen. You might assume that this delectable dish is complicated, but let me assure you, it’s as straightforward as it is delicious. With tender chicken, a rich soy-garlic broth, and silky noodles, your family will be begging for seconds. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the satisfying experience of making this Easy Chicken Ramen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep and cook in just about 25 minutes — perfect for busy weeks!
Irresistible Flavor: The combo of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering bite you can’t forget.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Each bowl is a vibrant explosion of colors that’ll impress guests or make your dinner feel extra special.
Flexible Serving: A fantastic option for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack when you’re craving something cozy.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapt it to be gluten-free or dairy-free by adjusting the noodles and mayonnaise.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 skinless chicken breasts: These will provide tender meat that absorbs the flavorful marinade beautifully. Feel free to use boneless thighs for more moisture.
1/3 cup soy sauce: This savory staple is essential for depth. Tamari can be a gluten-free alternative.
1/4 cup mirin: A sweet rice wine that adds a perfect hint of sweetness. If you can’t find mirin, a splash of white wine vinegar with sugar works as a substitute.
1/4 cup brown sugar: This enhances the sweet notes and balances the saltiness. Honey or coconut sugar can be swapped in.
1 tbsp minced garlic: Fresh garlic amps up flavor and aroma. Garlic powder is a quick substitute if you’re in a pinch.
1 tsp ground ginger: It brings a warm, zesty hint to the broth. Fresh ginger is even better if you have it on hand.
6 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium for a healthier option. You can also make your own or choose vegetable broth for a lighter base.
1/4 cup soy sauce (for broth): Adds that umami kick. Just remember, you already added some in the marinade.
2 tbsp mirin (for broth): It keeps the flavor consistent and delicious, so don’t skip this!
2 packs of your favorite ramen noodles: Skip the seasoning packets, we’re making our own tasty broth!
2 egg yolks: These create a creamy base; they add richness as you mix them into the broth. Be sure to separate them gently.
2 tbsp mayonnaise: This gives that silky mouthfeel common in restaurant-style ramen. You can use vegan mayo if needed.
2 tsp minced garlic (for serving): It’s perfect set atop your ramen right before devouring — a little extra flavor boost!
2 boiled eggs: Soft or hard-boiled, they make for a classic ramen topping. Go for a runny yolk for that luscious finish!
Scallions: These fresh greens add crunch and a hint of onion flavor. You’ll want them finely sliced for the best presentation.
Bok choy: Lightly boiled or blanched, adds freshness and color. Spinach can make a good alternative if you’re in a rush.

How to Make Easy Chicken Ramen

Combine the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ground ginger for a beautifully fragrant marinade. Add the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully coated in the marinade. Allow this marinate for at least 10 minutes while you get everything else ready.

Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and use nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken in the skillet and skip the marinade for now. Cook for about 5 minutes on one side without moving them, then flip and let the other side sear for another 5 minutes or until cooked through and gleaming golden. Pour the leftover marinade into the pan halfway through for an extra flavor punch as it reduces.

Prepare Toppings: While the chicken is sizzling away, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add your eggs and boil them to your preferred doneness, about 6-8 minutes for a soft-boiled egg. Additionally, add the bok choy to the boiling water once the eggs are done, letting them blanch for just 4-5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.

Simmer the Broth: Once your chicken is cooked, set it aside to cool for a moment. In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth along with the soy sauce and mirin, stirring until combined. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and once it’s bubbly, add your ramen noodles (leave the seasoning packets aside); let them cook for about 4-5 minutes or until just tender, stirring occasionally.

Create Your Base: Grab two serving bowls and add an egg yolk to each alongside a spoonful of mayonnaise and a sprinkle of minced garlic. Give it a good mix to create a luscious, creamy base that will mimic that rich ramen you love.

Assemble Your Ramen: When the noodles are just tender, ladle a bit of hot broth over your creamy base first, then add in the noodles along with another splash of broth to keep everything hot and satisfying. Repeat this for the second bowl to keep your servings nice and equal.

Garnish & Serve: Top each ramen bowl with the sliced chicken, tender bok choy, thinly sliced scallions, and half a boiled egg. For the final touch, sprinkle sesame seeds or red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy! Enjoy your delicious homemade bowl of **Easy Chicken Ramen** while it’s piping hot.

Storing & Reheating

To enjoy your Easy Chicken Ramen later, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles might soak up some broth and get a little mushy, so it’s best to store the components separately if possible. If you need to freeze, pack them in individual portions, ensuring everything is sealed tightly for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring to combine the flavors back together. Just a splash of broth or water can help restore your ramen to its former glory!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to over-marinate the chicken; 10-15 minutes is enough for flavor without drying it out.
When cooking the chicken, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to sear nicely.
If your ramen noodles are sticking together, rinse them under cold water before adding to the broth.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a dash of sesame oil to the broth just before serving.
Timing is essential for the eggs; a timer can help you nail that perfect soft-boiled texture!
You can also prep the chicken and broth components ahead of time for an even quicker meal.

In just a short while, you can whip up a cozy bowl of Easy Chicken Ramen that feels both special and familiar. The flavorful broth, tender chicken, and tasty toppings make each bite truly delightful. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or seasonings based on your personal taste. Experimenting with ingredients is part of the fun in cooking! I hope you find joy in your culinary creation, and may each slurp bring you warmth and happiness.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! While bok choy is a lovely choice, you can toss in whatever veggies you prefer — think snap peas, spinach, or even shredded carrots. Just ensure they’re tender but still vibrant for the best presentation and taste.

Can I make this ramen vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth, use tofu instead of chicken, and omit the eggs or replace them with plant-based alternatives. It’s super versatile!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Leftovers are best stored in separate containers — this helps maintain the texture. Keep the broth, noodles, and toppings separate. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the broth and chicken together, but keep noodles separate for best results.

What type of ramen noodles should I use?

Any ramen noodles work well in this recipe! Fresh, dried, or instant noodles can all be delicious, though fresh noodles usually yield the best texture. Just skip the seasoning packets and let your broth shine!