5 Easy Chicken Ramen Recipes for Weeknights

When the hustle and bustle of the week leave you with little time to prepare meals, having a quick, delicious, and comforting dish in your repertoire can make all the difference. Chicken Ramen isn't just fast food; it's a versatile meal that can be customized to suit your taste and nutritional preferences, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. Here are five easy chicken ramen recipes that will satisfy your cravings and keep you nourished.

1. Classic Chicken Ramen

Start with the basics. This recipe involves:

• 1 pack of instant ramen noodles
• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• 1-2 eggs
• Green onions, chopped
• Spinach or any leafy greens
• Soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil for flavor

How to Make It:

1. Cook the ramen noodles as per the package instructions. Discard the flavor packet if you're looking to control the seasoning.
2. In a separate pot, heat the chicken broth or water. Once boiling, add the chicken and simmer.
3. Add spinach or greens into the broth. Let them wilt down.
4. Once noodles are ready, transfer them into your serving bowl. Ladle in the hot broth with chicken and greens.
5. Fry or poach an egg to place on top.
6. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil. Sprinkle with green onions.

🍜 Note: To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms.

2. Spicy Miso Chicken Ramen

Spice up your ramen with a miso twist:

• 1 pack of ramen noodles
• 1 tbsp miso paste
• 1-2 cups chicken broth
• Shredded chicken
• Sliced scallions
• Spicy chili bean paste or sambal oelek
• Corn, bean sprouts, or any vegetable you like

How to Make It:

1. Boil the ramen noodles.
2. In a saucepan, mix the miso paste with a small amount of warm broth to dissolve, then add the rest of the broth, simmering.
3. Add shredded chicken to the broth.
4. Stir in the spicy chili bean paste or sambal oelek to taste.
5. Add the vegetables and let them cook.
6. Put the cooked noodles into a bowl, pour the miso broth over it, and garnish with scallions.

🌶️ Note: Adjust the heat level by using more or less chili paste.

3. Garlic Chicken Ramen

For those garlic lovers out there, this recipe will tantalize your taste buds:

• 1 pack of ramen noodles
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
• Chicken broth or water
• Butter or oil for sauteing
• Mushrooms, bok choy, or spinach
• Soy sauce and honey or sugar for sweetness

How to Make It:

1. Cook ramen noodles according to package.
2. In a skillet, saute minced garlic in butter or oil until golden.
3. Add chicken broth, chicken, and vegetables to the skillet. Simmer.
4. Add cooked noodles to the broth. Season with soy sauce and a touch of honey or sugar.

🧄 Note: Adding a splash of sake or mirin can give it an authentic flavor boost.

4. Thai Chicken Curry Ramen

This dish merges the warmth of Thai curry with the comfort of ramen:

• 1 pack of ramen noodles
• 1 can of coconut milk
• 1-2 tbsp Thai red or green curry paste
• Chicken broth or water
• 1 cup shredded chicken
• Bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant
• Lime, cilantro, and peanuts for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Cook ramen noodles and drain.
2. In a pot, mix coconut milk and curry paste, heating gently.
3. Add chicken broth, shredded chicken, and chopped vegetables. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cooked noodles to the curry. Squeeze in lime juice, garnish with cilantro and peanuts.

5. Creamy Pesto Chicken Ramen

Combine the simplicity of ramen with the rich flavors of pesto:

• 1 pack of ramen noodles
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
• 2-3 tbsp pesto sauce
• Chicken broth or water
• Heavy cream or milk for creaminess
• Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or cherry tomatoes

How to Make It:

1. Cook ramen noodles.
2. In a pan, heat chicken broth and add pesto sauce, stirring until mixed.
3. Add shredded chicken and vegetables. Pour in cream or milk for thickness.
4. Combine with the cooked noodles in a bowl.

All these recipes provide a quick, flavorful meal that can be adapted to what you have in your pantry or fridge. They are not just time-savers but also burst with flavors that can make any weeknight dinner feel like a treat.

Can I use different noodles for these recipes?

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Yes, you can experiment with different types of noodles like udon, soba, or even spaghetti, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make these recipes vegetarian or vegan?

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Replace the chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your miso paste and other flavorings are vegan-friendly.

Can I prepare these dishes in advance?

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Yes, you can prep components like shredding the chicken, chopping vegetables, and mixing the broth in advance. Combine and cook when you’re ready to eat for the freshest results.

Are there any quick hacks to add flavor?

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Using ingredients like bouillon cubes, instant dashi, or pre-made sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin can quickly elevate your ramen without the need for long cooking times.

Now, armed with these simple yet delectable chicken ramen recipes, you can turn a simple weeknight meal into something special. Whether you’re looking for classic comfort, spicy kicks, or a fusion of cuisines, these recipes cater to diverse tastes and ensure that your meals are anything but ordinary. Enjoy your cooking adventures and savor the warmth of a bowl of homemade ramen after a long day!