Description
Creamy Spicy Ramen with Chicken
A bold, spicy ramen bowl topped with caramelized chicken and a rich, creamy chili sauce. Perfect for heat lovers!
Ingredients:
Chicken thighs, honey, soy sauce
Garlic, chili paste, smoked paprika
Ramen noodles, sesame oil, mayo
Instructions:
Marinate and cook the chicken in a sweet-spicy sauce.
Make the creamy chili sauce with mayonnaise and soy sauce.
Cook ramen, toss in sesame oil, and season with chili flakes.
Top with chicken and drizzle with the creamy sauce.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
#NoodleCravings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp chili paste, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated. Let sit for at least 20 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, reserving the marinade. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through and caramelized. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens into a glaze. Remove chicken and slice.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1-2 tsp chili paste (to taste), and 1 tsp sesame oil until smooth and creamy.
4. Cook the Ramen: Cook 2 packs of ramen noodles according to package directions, discarding the seasoning packets. Drain and immediately toss the hot noodles with 1 tsp sesame oil and a pinch of chili flakes.
5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the seasoned noodles between two bowls. Top with sliced glazed chicken. Drizzle generously with the creamy chili sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ramen immediately while hot. For a complete meal, add a soft-boiled egg (halved) and a handful of fresh spinach or bok choy wilted into the noodles. A side of quick-pickled vegetables (like cucumbers or radishes) provides a refreshing, crunchy contrast to the rich, spicy flavors.
How-to Summary
This dish involves marinating chicken in a sweet-spicy glaze, cooking it until caramelized, and slicing it. A separate creamy, spicy sauce is made by mixing mayo, soy, and chili paste. Ramen noodles are cooked, tossed with sesame oil, and then assembled in bowls with the chicken and sauce, finished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Shrimp, tofu (pressed and pan-fried), or even thinly sliced beef work wonderfully with the same marinade and method.
2. How can I make this less spicy? Reduce or omit the chili paste in both the chicken marinade and the creamy sauce. You can add a touch of sweetness with a bit more honey to balance it.
3. Is there a substitute for mayonnaise? For a lighter option, full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used, though the sauce will be tangier and less rich.
4. Can I prepare components ahead of time? Yes. The chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours. The creamy sauce can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
5. My sauce is too thick. How do I thin it? Whisk in a teaspoon of water or chicken broth at a time until you reach your desired, drizzle-able consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken thighs are forgiving, but cooking over too high heat can burn the sugars in the glaze before the chicken is cooked through. Use medium-high heat and monitor closely.
- Using the Seasoning Packets: The flavor comes from your homemade sauces. Discard the high-sodium packets that come with instant ramen.
- Skipping the Sesame Oil Toss: Tossing the hot noodles in sesame oil is crucial. It prevents sticking and adds a foundational nutty flavor.
- Adding the Creamy Sauce to the Hot Pan: The mayo-based sauce will break (separate) if heated. Always add it cold as a finishing drizzle.
Conclusion
This Creamy Spicy Ramen with Chicken transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy bowl of comfort. The combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy elements with savory chicken and chewy noodles is deeply satisfying. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily master this bold dish that’s sure to become a favorite for any noodle craving.
