This fiery chicken ramen is packed with flavor! Tender chicken, spicy broth, and silky noodles come together in a delightful bowl that’s hard to resist.
And that creamy garlic sauce? It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! I love slurping up the noodles while savoring the spicy kick. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs bring rich flavor and tenderness to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, skinless chicken breasts work as well, just keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Chicken Broth: Store-bought broth is convenient, but homemade broth is unbeatable in flavor! If you’re short on time, low-sodium broth helps you control salt levels. For a vegetarian option, swap in vegetable broth.
Miso Paste: This ingredient deepens the broth’s flavor. If you don’t have miso, you can skip it or use tahini for a different layer of taste. Just be careful not to overshadow the other flavors.
Chili Paste: Sambal oelek or gochujang adds heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer mild flavors, you might use sriracha or even omit it entirely.
Mayonnaise: I recommend Kewpie mayo for an authentic touch, but regular mayo works too. If you want a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of olive oil.
How Do You Make Creamy Garlic Sauce That’s Full of Flavor?
A delicious creamy garlic sauce can elevate your ramen. Here’s how to make it smooth and flavorful:
- Start with finely minced garlic for a strong flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, roast the garlic before mincing.
- Mix mayonnaise with heavy cream for a rich texture. Adjust consistency by adding more cream or milk if it’s too thick.
- Add lemon juice or rice vinegar to brighten the sauce. This balance cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Taste and tweak as needed for your preference.
These simple steps will make your creamy garlic sauce a highlight of the dish!
Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 2 chicken thighs (boneless, skin-on preferred)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste (optional for depth)
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (such as sambal oelek or gochujang)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili oil, adjust to taste
- 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Japanese Kewpie mayo for authenticity)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or rice vinegar (to brighten)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ramen:
- 2 servings fresh or dried ramen noodles
- 1 soft-boiled egg, halved (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ramen comes together in about 45 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by 20-25 minutes to let the broth simmer and develop its bold flavors. The final touches, like cooking the ramen and assembling your bowl, take about 10 minutes. So grab your ingredients and get excited for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Lightly season the chicken thighs with salt. Place the chicken skin-side down in the pot and sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs over and sear the other side for 2 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Build the Broth:
In the same pot, add the sesame oil, smashed garlic cloves, and sliced ginger. Sauté them for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the soy sauce, miso paste (if using), chili paste, and chili flakes. Return the seared chicken thighs to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the broth will be packed with flavor!
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the broth is simmering, get started on the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, mayonnaise, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper to your taste. Set the sauce aside until the ramen is ready.
4. Cook the Ramen Noodles:
Bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
5. Assemble the Ramen:
After the broth is done, remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Shred or slice them into bite-sized pieces. In serving bowls, divide the cooked noodles and then ladle the spicy broth over the noodles.
6. Top It Off:
Place the shredded chicken on top of the noodles. Drizzle a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce over everything. Garnish your bowl with sliced green onions, a soft-boiled egg if desired, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds to add extra flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fiery chicken ramen hot! Stir the creamy garlic sauce into the broth before eating for a rich and delicious experience. Enjoy this amazing bowl of goodness!
Enjoy your warming bowl of Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce!
FAQ for Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, boneless chicken breasts will work as well. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder ramen, reduce the amount of chili paste and chili flakes, or omit them entirely. You can also substitute with a milder sauce, like sriracha. For extra heat, add more chili paste or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the broth separate from the noodles to prevent them from getting mushy. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much.
Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using to ensure it’s well mixed.
