Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is a quick and delicious meal that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce with ramen noodles. The best part? It takes just 50 minutes from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This stir fry can be ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: With a rich blend of soy sauces and spices, every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or protein for a personalized touch.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with veggies and lean chicken, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves six, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will help you make this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry efficiently. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy stirring of ingredients.
• Saucepan: Ideal for boiling the ramen noodles quickly without fuss.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining sauces without spills.

Ingredients

This chicken ramen stir fry is packed with so much flavor from the chicken, sauce, and fresh vegetables, and can be whipped up in a flash.

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons regular soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sriracha
• ¼ teaspoon white ground pepper

For the Stir Fry

• 3 packages instant ramen noodles (do not use the flavor packets) (3-ounce packages)
• 1 pound diced boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided 1 tablespoon and 2 tablespoons)
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper (1 medium-sized red bell pepper)
• 1 cup sliced white button mushrooms
• ½ cup diced sweet yellow onion
• 1 cup broccoli florets (broken into small bite-size pieces)
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 2 thinly sliced green onion (optional garnish)
• ½ tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)

How to Make Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauces, hoisin, oyster sauce, rice apple vinegar, sriracha, and white pepper. Set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

In a 3 to 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, bring 6 cups of water to a low boil. Add the noodles only to the water and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Drain and rinse in cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a 10 to 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add diced chicken breast; cook for 4 to 5 minutes until cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet. Add diced red bell pepper, mushrooms, and onions; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender. Then add broccoli; sauté until vibrant green.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for about 1 minute. Return chicken to vegetable mixture; stir well.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Add cooked ramen noodles into the skillet. Pour sauce over ramen mixture; use tongs to toss everything together evenly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry!

How to Serve Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Serving Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is a delightful experience that enhances its delicious flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro – Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
• Basil – Thai basil pairs wonderfully with this dish, adding a fragrant touch.

Pair with Extra Sauces

• Soy Sauce – Serve with a small dish of soy sauce for those who love an extra salty kick.
• Sriracha – Offer sriracha on the side for spice enthusiasts who enjoy heat in their meal.

Serve with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – A bed of jasmine rice can complement the stir fry well, making it heartier.
• Fried Rice – Leftover fried rice can be paired for an Asian-inspired twist.

Use Unique Serving Bowls

• Bamboo Bowls – Presenting the dish in bamboo bowls adds an authentic Asian touch.
• Deep Plates – Use deep plates to hold all the ingredients snugly and make it easier to mix while eating.

How to Perfect Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

To make sure your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is absolutely perfect, follow these simple tips.

• Choose High-Quality Ingredients – Using fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Cook the ramen just until they soften; overcooking can lead to mushy noodles.
• Pre-Chop Your Veggies – Have all your vegetables diced and prepared beforehand for quick cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference for a perfect balance.
• Give It a Toss – Toss everything together well after adding the sauce to ensure each bite is flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Complementing your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry with delightful side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Edamame – Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt make a healthy, protein-rich side.
2. Spring Rolls – Fresh or fried spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy contrast.
3. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting start to your meal.
4. Asian Slaw – A refreshing slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil adds crunch and brightness.
5. Cucumber Salad – Cool cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing balances the warmth of the stir fry nicely.
6. Sesame Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli tossed in sesame oil enhances both flavor and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Ramen Stir Fry, even small missteps can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauce preparation: Not preparing the sauce in advance can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Always mix your sauces before starting on the main ingredients.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking ramen noodles too long will make them mushy. Aim for just 1-2 minutes until they soften, then rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
• Crowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets a nice sear.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can dull the dish’s flavor and texture. Always choose fresh, vibrant produce for the best results.
• Not garnishing: Skipping garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds can make your dish less visually appealing and flavorful. Take a few extra minutes to add these touches.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Ramen Stir Fry that might help you along the way.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu depending on your preference.

What vegetables work best in Chicken Ramen Stir Fry?

Feel free to add vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or bok choy for variety and color.

How can I make this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your ramen noodles are gluten-free as well.

Is Chicken Ramen Stir Fry suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is not only quick to prepare but also deliciously customizable. You can adjust the vegetables and sauces according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite weeknight meal!