Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun meal prep option. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the unmistakable taste of ramen noodles, it’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whipping up this savory stir fry takes less than an hour, making it an ideal choice for various occasions—from quick family dinners to casual gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – This recipe comes together in about 50 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Packed – Each bite bursts with flavor from a balance of soy sauces, hoisin, and fresh vegetables, ensuring that every mouthful is satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients – You can easily customize this stir fry by swapping out the vegetables or protein based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Healthy Option – With plenty of vegetables and lean chicken breast, this dish offers a nutritious meal that’s low in calories but high in flavor.
• Easy Cleanup – One skillet is all you need for cooking this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry, making cleanup a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry efficiently, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick Skillet – This ensures your ingredients cook evenly without sticking, allowing for easy tossing of the stir fry.
• Saucepan – Perfect for boiling the ramen noodles quickly without overcrowding them.
• Tongs – Essential for tossing the noodles and sauce together seamlessly without breaking them.

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 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

Garnishes (optional)

• 2 thinly sliced green onions
• ½ tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

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 vinegar, sriracha, and white pepper. Set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, bring to a low boil six cups of water. Add only the noodles to the water and cook for one to two minutes until they begin to soften. Drain and rinse the noodles in cold water to stop cooking. Set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Keeping the skillet on medium-high heat, add two tablespoons of oil. Add diced red bell pepper, mushrooms, and onions. Sauté for two to three minutes until slightly tender. Then add broccoli florets and sauté just until they turn vibrant green.

Step 5: Combine Flavor

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for one minute before adding back in the cooked chicken. Stir everything together while turning off the heat.

Step 6: Toss with Noodles

Add cooked ramen noodles to your vegetable mixture. Pour your prepared sauce over everything and use tongs to toss until combined well.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a standalone meal or accompanied by sides, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions: Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions over the dish for a fresh and crunchy texture.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Pair with Additional Proteins

• Soft-Boiled Eggs: Serve a soft-boiled egg on top for added richness and protein.
• Grilled Shrimp: For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp can provide a delicious twist.

Enjoy with Broth

• Chicken Broth: Consider serving the Chicken Ramen Stir Fry in a bowl with warm chicken broth for a comforting soup-style meal.
• Spicy Broth: For those who enjoy heat, serve with a side of spicy broth to dip or drizzle over the noodles.

Offer Extra Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Provide additional soy sauce on the side for those who like more seasoning.
• Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil can add an extra kick for spice enthusiasts.

How to Perfect Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Making the perfect Chicken Ramen Stir Fry requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Here’s how you can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only boost flavor but also enhance nutrition and color.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Ensure you cook the ramen noodles just until they start to soften; this prevents them from becoming mushy once added to the stir fry.
• High Heat Cooking: Sauté ingredients over medium-high heat to lock in flavors and maintain crispness.
• Add Sauce Gradually: Pour the sauce gradually while tossing; this ensures all ingredients get evenly coated without overwhelming flavors.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the stir fry to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

Pairing your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a nutritious snack alongside your main dish.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls add crunch and freshness, perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce.
3. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides a crunchy contrast.
4. Miso Soup: A light miso soup adds warmth and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of ramen stir fry.
5. Fried Rice: A side of fried rice can enhance the meal’s heartiness and introduce different textures.
6. Sliced Cucumbers: Fresh cucumber slices dressed in rice vinegar offer a cool palate cleanser between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Ramen Stir Fry, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using Flavor Packets: Avoid using the flavor packets that come with instant ramen. They can overpower the fresh flavors of your sauce, so stick to plain noodles.
• Overcooking Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Ensure it’s cooked just through, then remove it from the heat.
• Not Preparing Sauce Ahead: Mixing the sauce in advance is crucial. If you add ingredients one by one while cooking, the flavors won’t meld as well.
• Ignoring Vegetable Freshness: Using wilted vegetables can affect taste and texture. Always use fresh veggies for the best outcome.
• Skipping Garnishes: Garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip these finishing touches!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

• Allow to cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Ramen Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Ramen Stir Fry.

Can I use other proteins in Chicken Ramen Stir Fry?

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

What vegetables work best in Chicken Ramen Stir Fry?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and bok choy for added color and nutrition.

How spicy is this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. Adjust according to your taste preference for a milder or spicier dish.

Can I make this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and proteins, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a delightful dish for entertaining. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!