Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is a quick and delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional ramen. It’s versatile enough to suit various tastes and occasions, making it a standout choice for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Sauce: The blend of soy sauces, hoisin, and sriracha creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the taste of every ingredient.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Filled with fresh vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, this stir fry provides essential nutrients while being satisfying.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to create your own variation of this dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry stores well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents food from sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Saucepan: Ideal for boiling noodles quickly and efficiently.
• Tongs: Great for tossing ingredients together without breaking them apart.

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 Ramen:

• 3 packages instant ramen noodles (do not use the flavor packets) (3-ounce packages)

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound diced boneless skinless chicken breasts

For the Vegetables:

• 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)

For Garnish:

• 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 only the noodles to the water and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Drain and rinse them in cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add in the diced chicken breast and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Keeping the skillet on medium-high heat, add in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Add diced red bell pepper, mushrooms, and onions. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender. Then add in broccoli florets and sauté until vibrant green.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet; cook for an additional minute. Then return cooked chicken to vegetable mixture; stir well.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Add cooked ramen noodles into the skillet with chicken and vegetables. Pour prepared sauce over everything; use tongs to toss until evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot!

How to Serve Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Serving Chicken Ramen Stir Fry can be as creative as you like. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various toppings and sides to enhance your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your ramen stir fry.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro or Basil: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil leaves on top for a burst of freshness and flavor.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Chopped Peanuts: Add a handful of chopped peanuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fried Shallots: Top with crispy fried shallots for an extra layer of texture.

Serve with Lime Wedges

• Zesty Lime: Provide lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds acidity.

Pair with Extra Protein

• Tofu or Shrimp: Offer grilled tofu or shrimp as additional protein options for those who want more variety in their meal.

Create a Salad Side

• Asian Slaw: Serve alongside an Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Perfecting your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry involves attention to detail and the right techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Avoid Overcooking Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles just until they begin to soften, then rinse them in cold water to stop cooking.
• Sauté Quickly: Keep the heat high while sautéing vegetables to maintain their crispness.
• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients according to your taste; more sriracha for spice, or less soy sauce for a lighter flavor.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the garnishes; they add both visual appeal and extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Edamame: Steamed edamame pods seasoned with sea salt offer a fun, nutritious snack.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a delightful crunch that complements the stir fry.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting counterpart to your ramen dish.
4. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of ramen.
5. Seaweed Salad: This tangy salad enhances the umami flavors in your meal while adding nutritional benefits.
6. Steamed Dumplings: Flavorful steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken make for a hearty addition.
7. Fried Rice: A small serving of vegetable fried rice can work well as an additional carbohydrate option.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies provide a nice balance and cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Chicken Ramen Stir Fry. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sauce: Failing to prepare the sauce ahead of time can lead to bland flavors. Mix all the sauce ingredients together in a bowl before starting your stir fry.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking the ramen noodles too long will make them mushy. Follow the package instructions, typically just 1-2 minutes, and rinse them with cold water.
• Not Prepping Ingredients First: Preparing ingredients as you cook can slow you down. Dice vegetables and chicken beforehand for a smoother cooking process.
• Using Low-Quality Chicken: Low-quality chicken may affect the dish’s taste and texture. Choose fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts for better results.
• Ignoring Vegetable Sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly and quickly.
• Skipping Garnishes: Garnishes add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip the green onions and sesame seeds; they elevate your dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

• Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stir fry in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water, then add your stir fry. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to Chicken Ramen Stir Fry:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb depending on your preference.

How can I customize my Chicken Ramen Stir Fry?

Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy such as snap peas, carrots, or bok choy for variety in flavors and textures.

What should I serve with Chicken Ramen Stir Fry?

This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs well with steamed rice or a simple side salad for balance.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and ensure your sauces are plant-based for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. With endless customization options, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!