Introduction to the Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Creating the best homemade chicken ramen isn't just about cooking—it's about crafting a delicious meal that fits perfectly into your busy life as a young professional. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a savory bowl of ramen that features tender, caramelized soy chicken and a perfectly cooked ramen egg. Imagine the satisfaction of enjoying a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home, all while energizing yourself for the hectic week ahead!
Why is this recipe a game changer for young professionals? Well, in the fast-paced world we live in, it's all too easy to rely on takeout or frozen meals. But this ramen is not only healthy—using fresh ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, spring onions, and yu choy—it also offers a great way to unwind after a long day. The act of preparing this meal can be genuinely therapeutic. Plus, it's an impressive dish to serve when inviting friends over, allowing you to showcase your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen. Bon Appétit and other culinary resources emphasize the importance of home-cooked meals in maintaining a balanced lifestyle, making this ramen recipe not just a meal, but an experience.
So roll up your sleeves and prepare to impress both your taste buds and your guests!
Ingredients for Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Creating the best homemade chicken ramen is all about the quality of ingredients you choose. Here’s a closer look at the essentials that will elevate your ramen game!
List of Ingredients for the Caramelized Soy Chicken
For the chicken marinade, you'll need:
- 30 mL mirin
- 15 mL dark soy sauce (or use light soy sauce with a little salt adjustment)
- 15 mL light soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 4 boneless chicken thighs (skin on or off)
And for the delicious glaze:
- 2 teaspoon brown sugar
- 30 mL dark soy sauce (or a mix of light soy sauce and water)
Key Ingredients for Shoyu Ramen Broth
Your broth forms the heart of this best homemade chicken ramen. Gather these key ingredients:
- 4-5 cups of low-sodium chicken stock
- 4 scallions (cut into large pieces)
- 5 whole garlic cloves
- 2-inch piece of sliced ginger
- 4 fresh red chili peppers or 1 tablespoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
- 60 mL light soy sauce
- 60 mL mirin
- 8 ounces fresh shiitake mushrooms (optional dried shiitake mushrooms for extra flavor)
Toppings and Optional Extras
Don't forget about toppings to make your ramen truly special! Consider adding:
- Sliced scallions
- Ramen eggs (marinated or soft boiled)
- Steamed greens like spinach or yu choy
- Fresh radishes or bean sprouts
- A drizzle of chili garlic oil for that extra kick.
These ingredients will not only enhance the flavors but also make your bowl visually appealing. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Creating the best homemade chicken ramen is a delightful journey through flavors and textures. Let’s walk through each step to ensure you end up with a bowl of ramen that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day!
Prepare the caramelized soy chicken
Start by marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of mirin, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, cayenne pepper, and minced garlic. If you can, let it marinate for at least an hour (or overnight for deeper flavor!). Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and roast the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, flipping it halfway. Once done, drizzle with a glaze made of brown sugar and dark soy sauce to give it that glossy finish everyone loves.
Make the shoyu ramen broth
The broth is the heart of your best homemade chicken ramen. In a saucepan, combine chicken stock with fresh ginger, garlic, and spring onions for aroma and depth. You can add fresh or dried shiitake mushrooms for an umami punch. Bring it all to a simmer for 20-25 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. Taste as you go, adjusting with light soy sauce and mirin as needed.
Cooking the ramen noodles
While the broth simmers, bring a separate pot of water to boil for the ramen noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions but reduce the time by one minute; they’ll continue cooking when poured over the hot broth. Drain and divide them into four bowls.
Preparing the ramen eggs (if desired)
Ramen eggs bring an irresistible creaminess to your dish. If you want to take the time, prepare ajitsuke tamago by soft-boiling large eggs for 6-6.5 minutes. Then, soak them in a mixture of soy sauce and mirin to absorb flavor. If you’re short on time, just soft-boiled eggs work wonderfully!
Steaming the greens
Brighten up your ramen bowls by adding greens. You can use yu choy, spinach, or any Asian greens you prefer. Simply microwave them with a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil until just wilted, or sauté them gently in a pan for a couple of minutes.
Assembling your homemade chicken ramen bowls
Now for the fun part! In each bowl, layer the cooked ramen noodles, then ladle over the shoyu ramen broth. Top with slices of your caramelized chicken, steamed greens, and your perfectly prepared ramen eggs. You can add sliced scallions, radishes, or a drizzle of chili oil for that extra kick.
Voila! Your best homemade chicken ramen is ready. Sit down, savor every bite, and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of having made it all from scratch. Dive deeper into the art of ramen-making with expert advice or other delicious recipes by checking out sources like Serious Eats or Tasty.
Variations of Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Spicy Chicken Ramen Variation
If you crave a little kick, try adding more fresh chilies or a splash of chili oil to your best homemade chicken ramen. You can even mix in some sriracha or a spicy miso paste to the broth for an added depth of heat.
Vegetarian Ramen Option
Feel like switching things up? Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Load up on colorful vegetables like bok choy, carrots, and mushrooms to keep that umami flavor strong while making a delicious vegetarian ramen.
Quick & Easy Shortcut Ramen
For those busy days, there’s a faster route! Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and instant ramen noodles, combining them with your favorite broth and veggies. In less than 20 minutes, you'll have a satisfying bowl of homemade chicken ramen. For tips on how to elevate store-bought ingredients, check out this article.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Tips for Marinating the Chicken
For the best homemade chicken ramen, marinate your chicken thighs overnight if possible. This enhances the umami richness and allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Use a mix of light and dark soy sauce, mirin, and garlic for a well-rounded taste that truly brings your dish to life.
Ways to Enhance Broth Flavor
To elevate your broth, consider adding dried shiitake mushrooms during simmering. They rehydrate and release nutrient-dense umami, enriching the overall flavor profile. A pinch of MSG can also work wonders—just remember to adjust for balance.
Recommendations for Noodle Cooking
When cooking your ramen noodles, boil them for one minute less than package instructions. They’ll continue cooking in the hot broth, ensuring the perfect texture. Always rinse them briefly in cold water after draining to prevent them from sticking together.
For expert ramen tips, consider checking out Noodle Whiz for additional insights!
Serving Suggestions for Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Suggested Accompaniments
For a complete experience with your best homemade chicken ramen, consider serving it with a side of steamed dumplings or crispy spring rolls. These dishes bring an extra layer of flavor and texture, making your meal more satisfying. You might also enjoy a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Creative Garnish Ideas
Elevate the presentation of your ramen by adding colorful garnishes. Top your bowl with finely sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch. A drizzle of chili garlic oil offers both heat and a beautiful sheen, while a few slices of nori (seaweed) add an oceanic depth to your dish.
Pairing with Beverages
To wash down your best homemade chicken ramen, opt for refreshing beverages like green tea or a good-quality iced jasmine tea. Both complement the delicate flavors without overpowering them. If you're looking for something bolder, a lightly flavored soda, such as yuzu or ginger, can add an exciting twist to your meal.
Time Breakdown for Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your best homemade chicken ramen takes just 5 minutes. Gather your ingredients, marinate the chicken if you choose, and you’re all set to embark on this flavorful journey.
Cooking Time
The actual cooking takes about 40 minutes. During this time, you’ll roast the chicken to a caramelized perfection while simmering the aromatic ramen broth.
Total Time
In total, if you decide to marinate the chicken and eggs overnight, your best homemade chicken ramen can be on your table in just 45 minutes—not too shabby for a comforting meal! If time is tight, don’t hesitate to check out the easier version of the recipe for a quicker option.
Nutritional Facts for Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
When indulging in the best homemade chicken ramen, understanding its nutritional benefits is essential. Here’s a quick look at what’s in a serving:
- Calories: 658 kcal per serving, making it a hearty meal choice.
- Protein: Enjoy a satisfying 31g, contributing to muscle health and fullness.
- Sodium: Contains 4123mg, highlighting the importance of moderation, especially for those monitoring their salt intake.
For more details on how to balance your meals, check out this resource on sodium recommendations. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious ramen experience!
FAQ about Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! The beauty of the best homemade chicken ramen lies in its flexibility. If you don't have mirin, you can use a mix of sake and sugar. Dark soy sauce can be substituted with light soy sauce, but remember to adjust the salt levels. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge; bok choy or kale work great too!
How long does it take to make from scratch?
This delicious ramen can be prepared in about 45 minutes if you stick to the recipe. However, taking the time to marinate the chicken and eggs overnight can elevate the flavor and save some time the day of cooking.
Can I meal prep chicken ramen for the week?
Yes, you can definitely meal prep! Cook the ramen components and store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy your ramen, simply heat up the broth and noodles, then mix in your toppings. This way, you’ll have delightful ramen ready to go throughout the week! For more tips on meal prep, check out this guide.
Conclusion on Best Homemade Chicken Ramen
Creating your own chicken ramen is not just about following a recipe; it's about crafting a comforting bowl filled with flavors that speak to your soul. By embracing the art of the best homemade chicken ramen, you’re not only nourishing yourself but also igniting joy in the kitchen. Dive in!
The Best Homemade Chicken Ramen (Easy Ramen Recipe)
Equipment
- oven
- Saucepan
- baking sheet
- microwave
Ingredients
Caramelized Soy Chicken
- 30 mL mirin
- 15 mL dark soy sauce or mushroom dark soy sauce
- 15 mL light soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cloves garlic chopped finely
- 4 pieces chicken thighs boneless, skin off or on
Glaze for the Chicken
- 2 teaspoon brown sugar
- 30 mL dark soy sauce or mushroom dark soy sauce
Shoyu Ramen
- 4 - 5 cups good quality chicken stock 1000 - 1180 mL. No sodium or low sodium
- 4 spring onions scallions trimmed and cut into 3 inch pieces
- 5 cloves garlic whole cloves are fine
- 2 inches ginger sliced
- 60 mL light soy sauce
- 60 mL mirin
- 8 ounces fresh shiitake mushrooms stems trimmed and sliced
- 6 pieces dried shiitake mushrooms optional
- 4 portions dried ramen noodles or about 340 g dry ramen
Regular Soft Boiled Eggs
- 4 large eggs
Steamed Greens
- 1 large bunch yu choy OR spinach or any Asian greens
- Soy sauce to taste
- Sesame oil a drizzle
- 2 - 3 cloves garlic finely sliced, to taste
Ramen Toppings
- 4 spring onions scallions finely sliced
- Sliced radishes or bean sprouts
- Chili garlic oil
Instructions
Caramelized Soy Chicken
- Place all the ingredients for the chicken marinade in a bowl. Mix well to coat the chicken. If time permits, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F / 218°C, and place an oven rack in the top third of your oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the chicken pieces on the baking sheet, skin side down (or smooth side down), evenly spaced apart. Then place the baking sheet in the preheated oven (upper third).
- Let the chicken roast for 15 minutes. While the chicken is cooking, mix the brown sugar and dark soy sauce for the glaze, and start making the ramen.
- After 15 minutes, flip the chicken pieces over and spoon the glaze over them. Let the chicken cook for a further 10 - 15 minutes. Then remove from the oven and let them cool down.
- Slice the chicken and set aside.
Ramen
- While the caramelized soy chicken is cooking in the oven, make the ramen base.
- In one saucepan (Pot 1), place the stock, ginger, garlic, spring onions, chili (if using), soy sauce, and mirin. Stir and cover the pot. Let it come to a boil at medium high - high heat. Then lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for 20 - 25 minutes.
- To add more flavor to the stock base, you can also add dried shiitake mushrooms to the broth.
- While Pot 1 is simmering, add water to the second pot (Pot 2), and bring it to a boil. Add the dried noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package directions.
- When the ramen base in Pot 1 has cooked for about 20 - 25 minutes, strain to remove the garlic, ginger, chili, and spring onions. If you added dried mushrooms, remove these. Slice these mushrooms and set aside.
- Add the strained stock back into the pot and add the mushrooms (fresh and reconstituted dried mushrooms), and let it cook for a further 5 minutes until the fresh mushrooms have softened.
Ramen Egg or Unseasoned Soft Boiled Egg
- Make ramen eggs the day before, or make regular soft boiled eggs to top your ramen bowl.
- To make regular soft boiled eggs - bring a pot of water to a boil. Lower 4 large eggs carefully into the water and cook the eggs for 6 - 6 ½ minutes.
- Immediately place the eggs in cool running water or an ice bath for a few minutes. Peel and set aside until ready to serve.
Steamed Greens
- Wash the greens and cut them in half, or into sections if necessary, to separate thick stems from the leaves.
- Place the greens in a bowl and drizzle a little soy sauce and sesame oil (and garlic) on top. Toss to combine.
- Cover and microwave in 1 minute increments until the greens have softened, but not too wilted.
To Serve
- Evenly divide the hot stock between the four bowls with ramen noodles. Top with the steamed greens, sliced soy chicken, ramen eggs, spring onions, radishes, and other toppings you like.
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