Creamy Garlic Chicken Ramen is a delightful dish that brings comforting flavors to the forefront. The rich combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering experience. Its inviting appearance, featuring vibrant greens and a sprinkle of green onions, makes it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
From the first slurp of the noodles to the last spoonful of broth, each bite is a sensory delight. This article will guide you step-by-step in creating this hearty dish, emphasizing simple preparations and fresh ingredients. Let’s dive into the world of Creamy Garlic Chicken Ramen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: This recipe focuses on wholesome, fresh ingredients that burst with flavor.
- Ease of Preparation: Quick and simple, this dish can be made in just one pot.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein from chicken and veggies, it’s a satisfying meal.
- Versatility: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables and personalize the seasoning.
- Presentation: The beautiful colors and textures make it a feast for the eyes.
With these reasons combined, you won’t be able to resist making this dish!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
(Note that times may vary.)
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Creamy Garlic Chicken Ramen, start by selecting the right ingredients: 2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup water, 2 packets ramen noodles, 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 cup chopped vegetables (like broccoli and carrots), salt and pepper to taste, and chopped green onions for garnish.
Main Protein: Chicken
- Typically, use cooked, shredded chicken for protein and flavor.
- Prepare by cooking and shredding rotisserie chicken or poaching your own.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, tofu or shrimp can also work well.
- Tip: Ensure your chicken is cooked through for best texture and taste.
Starch/Pasta: Ramen Noodles
- Ramen noodles are the classic choice for this dish, offering a perfect texture.
- Simply cook as per packet instructions until tender and drain.
- Substitutions: If you want an alternative, any thin pasta or whole wheat spaghetti can be used.
- Tip: Be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they will soften further in the broth.
Seasoning/Spice Blend: Garlic and Soy Sauce
- Fresh minced garlic adds depth, while soy sauce provides umami.
- Use minced garlic directly in your cooking for the best flavor.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, garlic powder and tamari can suffice.
- Tip: Sauté garlic until fragrant, but don’t let it burn to avoid bitterness.
Liquids/Dairy: Chicken Broth and Heavy Cream
- Chicken broth forms the base, and heavy cream brings creaminess.
- Mix both into the pot, ensuring the broth is warm for a seamless combination.
- Substitutions: If you want an alternative, vegetable broth and coconut milk can be used.
- Tip: Adjust cream for a lighter dish if desired.
Aromatics & Vegetables: Fresh Greens
- Use fresh vegetables like broccoli and carrots for color and crunch.
- Chop veggies into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, spinach or bell peppers add nice variety.
- Tip: Add the veggies towards the end of cooking to keep them crisp.
Optional Finishing Ingredients: Green Onions
- Chopped green onions make a great garnish for a fresh finish.
- Simply slice the green onions just before serving.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, cilantro can also brighten the dish.
- Tip: Serve immediately after garnishing for the freshest taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
You will love that this recipe is made all in one pot, leaving less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
Step 1: Sauté Garlic
Start by heating a medium pot over medium heat. Add a splash of sesame oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned. This step builds a beautiful foundation of flavor.
Step 2: Add Liquids
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Adjust the heat to avoid vigorous boiling, which can evaporate the broth.
Step 3: Incorporate Noodles and Chicken
Once simmering, add 2 packets of ramen noodles and 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the noodles are tender. Stirring prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Soy Sauce
Reduce heat and mix in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Allow to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture is well-combined and creamy. This creates the dish’s signature creamy texture and flavor.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
Next, add 1 cup of your chosen chopped vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re tender yet crisp. This keeps the vegetables vibrant and nutritious.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to blend the seasonings evenly. Tasting at this point ensures your dish is perfectly seasoned.
Step 7: Serve with Garnish
Ladle the ramen into bowls and top with chopped green onions for garnish. This final touch enhances presentation and adds freshness.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in deep bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a side of crispy spring rolls for a complete meal.
- Portions: This recipe comfortably serves 2–4, depending on appetite.
- Beverage Pairing: Try pairing with a light-bodied white wine or green tea for a refreshing complement.
Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Additional Tips
- Enhance flavor by adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving.
- Customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or add spicy chili oil for extra heat.
- For a fun twist, you can add a soft-boiled egg on top for richness.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Garlic Ramen: Add chili flakes for warmth and flavor throughout the dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
- Asian-Inspired: Incorporate miso paste into the broth for a depth of flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: In the refrigerator, this ramen keeps well for 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze the broth and noodles separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Special Equipment
- Medium cooking pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Ladle
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables and even pre-cooked frozen chicken, just ensure to adjust cooking times.Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
You can adjust the ingredients to make it gluten-free or dairy-free by using alternative noodles and coconut milk.Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the broth and ingredients ahead of time, then combine everything just before serving for a fresh meal.Can I customize the flavors?
Yes! Modify the seasoning and vegetables according to your preference for a more personalized taste.What cooking methods can I use?
This recipe is perfect for stovetop cooking, but you can adapt it to an Instant Pot or slow cooker for convenience.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Chicken Ramen is not only easy to make but also deeply satisfying and nutritious. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re in need of comfort food or hosting friends. The fresh ingredients and rich flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover your new favorite dish!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Ramen
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken broth Forms the base of the soup.
- 1 cup water Used to adjust the broth consistency.
- 2 packets ramen noodles Classic choice for this dish.
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken Can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Adds creaminess to the broth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Adds umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil For sautéing garlic and adding flavor.
- 1 cup chopped vegetables Can use broccoli and carrots or other favorites.
- salt and pepper to taste Adjust seasoning as preferred.
- chopped green onions For garnish before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by heating a medium pot over medium heat. Add a splash of sesame oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Once simmering, add 2 packets of ramen noodles and 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and mix in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Allow to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Next, add 1 cup of your chosen chopped vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re tender yet crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to blend the seasonings.
- Ladle the ramen into bowls and top with chopped green onions for garnish.
