Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, this Quick Chicken Ramen Noodle Stir Fry is your go-to recipe. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also customizable based on your preferences, making it a versatile option for any dinner table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 (3.5-ounce) packages instant ramen noodles, flavor packets discarded
– ⅓ cup chicken stock
– ¼ cup oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha, or more, to taste
– 1 tablespoon canola oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
– 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup diced sweet onion
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: Approximately 20 minutes
Total Time: About 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This recipe not only fulfills your craving for something savory and satisfying but also allows you to incorporate a variety of vegetables for added nutrition. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ramen Noodles
In a large pot of boiling water, cook the ramen noodles until tender, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, rinse the noodles with cold water and drain them well to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, oyster sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Sriracha. This will be the sauce that brings flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken thighs and cook until golden and fully cooked through, which takes about 4-6 minutes. Once done, set the chicken aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, stir in the broccoli florets, diced sweet onion, diced red bell pepper, and sliced shiitake mushrooms. Cook these vegetables until they are tender, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger
Stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. This will enhance the overall aroma of the dish.
Step 6: Add the Sauce
Pour in the prepared chicken stock mixture, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked ramen noodles and the chicken until everything is heated through and evenly coated in the sauce. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the dish immediately, garnishing with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Total Time
The entire cooking process takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.
Customization
Feel free to adjust the level of Sriracha based on your spice preference. Additional vegetables can also be added for more variety.
Cook techniques
Boiling Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook them until tender, typically around 3-4 minutes. Rinse the cooked noodles with cold water to stop the cooking process and drain thoroughly.
Whisking Sauces
In a medium bowl, combine chicken stock, oyster sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Sriracha. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients thoroughly until fully blended, creating a flavorful sauce for the stir fry.
Searing Chicken
Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken thighs and cook them until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 4-6 minutes. This technique not only cooks the chicken but also adds flavor through caramelization.
Sautéing Vegetables
Add broccoli, onion, bell pepper, and shiitake mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté these vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender, ensuring to maintain a slight crunch for texture.
Infusing Aromatics
Incorporate minced garlic and freshly grated ginger into the sautéed vegetables. Stir them for about 1 minute or until fragrant, releasing their essential oils and enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
Combining Ingredients
Pour the whisked sauce into the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth to the sauce. Stir in the cooked ramen noodles and the seared chicken until everything is heated through and evenly coated in the sauce.
Garnishing the Dish
Serve the stir fry immediately, garnished with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles instead of ramen?
Yes, you can substitute ramen with other types of noodles such as udon or rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodle used.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar or hoisin sauce as a substitute.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can customize the stir fry by adding more vegetables such as snap peas, carrots, or bok choy according to your preference.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using tofu or tempeh as a protein source, along with vegetable broth in place of chicken stock.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Quick Chicken Ramen Noodle Stir Fry is a delightful and efficient meal option that balances flavors and textures perfectly. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy ramen noodles all coated in a savory sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that can be made in just 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Vegetable Variations
Experiment with different vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or bok choy for added nutrients and color.
Protein Alternatives
Substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences.
Spice It Up
For a spicier kick, add more Sriracha or include red pepper flakes in the sauce mixture.
Coconut Curry Ramen
Use coconut milk instead of chicken stock and add curry powder for a unique twist on the original recipe.
Lemon Garlic Ramen
Incorporate lemon juice and zest along with garlic for a fresh and zesty flavor profile.
Peanut Sauce Variation
Replace oyster sauce with a homemade peanut sauce for a rich and creamy alternative.
One-Pot Ramen Bowl
Add all ingredients, including ramen, to one pot and let simmer for a quicker, one-pot meal.
Garnish Options
Top the dish with crushed peanuts, cilantro, or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
