Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Savory and satisfying, Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is the perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and savory sauce with a rich broth filled with shiitake mushrooms and fresh spinach. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, this ramen will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce creates a rich flavor profile that’s both comforting and delicious.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings or add any vegetables you love to make it your own.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from the spinach and mushrooms, this ramen is not just tasty but also beneficial for your health.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen, you’ll need some essential tools that will make cooking easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven or stockpot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Pot for boiling noodles

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven or stockpot: Ideal for simmering the broth evenly while allowing all flavors to meld together.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing chicken thighs to achieve that golden brown color before glazing them.
• Colander: Helps strain solids from the broth efficiently, ensuring a smooth ramen soup.

Ingredients

Savory and sweet chicken thighs are glazed and added to a rich broth with shiitake mushrooms, spinach, and classic ramen noodles!

For the Broth

• 8 cups chicken broth (reduced sodium)
• 1/4 cup light soy sauce
• 2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
• 3-5 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
• 4 green onions, cut into 2 inch pieces
• 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and cut into 2 inch pieces (optional)
• 1/2 – 1 tsp red pepper flakes

For the Ginger Glazed Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 Tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp dark soy sauce
• 3 Tbsp light brown sugar
• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 1 tsp minced garlic

For the Toppings

• 8 oz fresh shiitake mushrooms, halved or sliced
• 5 oz baby spinach
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil
• 12 oz ramen noodles
• 3 green onions, sliced

How to Make Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. Add all broth ingredients to a large dutch oven or stockpot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium/medium-low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Thighs

1. While the broth simmers, season chicken thighs with black pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown.

Step 3: Glaze the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk together light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
2. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
3. Cook until the glaze becomes syrupy and thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

1. Transfer cooked chicken thighs to a cutting board and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Slice thinly once rested.

Step 5: Strain the Broth

1. Place a very large mixing bowl in your sink and set a colander inside it.
2. Pour the broth over the colander to strain out solids.
3. Return strained broth back into the pot on low heat.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms & Spinach

1. Add halved shiitake mushrooms to the pot; cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat.
2. Stir in baby spinach and sesame oil; cook an additional 3 minutes until wilted.

Step 7: Cook Noodles

1. Boil water in another pot; cook ramen noodles for one minute less than package instructions.
2. Drain noodles and divide among four serving bowls.

Step 8: Assemble & Serve

1. Ladle hot broth with mushrooms and spinach over each bowl of noodles.
2. Top with slices of glazed chicken and green onions.
3. Add any additional toppings you prefer before serving hot.

Enjoy your homemade Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen!

How to Serve Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Serving Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen can elevate your meal experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Basil: Add Thai basil for an aromatic twist that complements the ginger glaze.

Add Extra Vegetables

• Bean Sprouts: Top with crunchy bean sprouts for added texture.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For spice lovers, sliced jalapeños add heat and freshness.

Include Additional Proteins

• Soft-Boiled Eggs: A soft-boiled egg can add creaminess and richness to your ramen bowl.
• Tofu: Crispy fried tofu is a great plant-based addition for extra protein.

Serve with Naan or Rice

• Naan Bread: Offer warm naan on the side to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Steamed Rice: Serve jasmine or basmati rice as a base for the ramen toppings.

How to Perfect Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Creating the perfect Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen involves attention to detail in both preparation and presentation. Here are some tips to help you achieve an amazing dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh ginger and garlic for maximum flavor in both the broth and glaze.
• Quality Broth: Opt for high-quality chicken broth; homemade broth provides richer taste compared to store-bought.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook ramen noodles just under the package instructions to maintain their texture when added to the hot broth.
• Rest Chicken Thighs: Allowing chicken thighs to rest after cooking keeps them juicy and tender, enhancing overall flavor.
• Fresh Veggies: Use seasonal vegetables for garnish and toppings to add freshness and nutrition.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative! Try sesame seeds, seaweed, or pickled vegetables as unique toppings.

Best Side Dishes for Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Pairing side dishes with your Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame serves as a nutritious snack that complements the flavors of ramen.
2. Seaweed Salad: This refreshing salad adds a nice contrast with its tangy dressing and chewy texture.
3. Vegetable Tempura: Crispy vegetable tempura makes an excellent crispy side that balances the soft noodles.
4. Crab Rangoon: Creamy crab rangoon offers a delightful crunch and savory filling that pairs well with ramen.
5. Miso Soup: A light miso soup can serve as a perfect appetizer, warming up your palate before the main dish.
6. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies provide a light, crunchy side that complements the ramen well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen can be delightful, but there are common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Using the wrong broth: Opt for reduced-sodium chicken broth for a balanced flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• Overcooking chicken: Ensure the chicken thighs are golden brown but not dry. Cook them just until they reach a nice glaze.
• Skipping the broth straining: Straining the solids from your broth enhances clarity and texture. Don’t skip this step for a cleaner taste.
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste and adjust seasoning as you go. Adding a touch more soy sauce or ginger at the end can elevate your dish.
• Ignoring noodle timing: Follow package instructions closely but remember to cook noodles one minute less. This prevents mushiness when combined with hot broth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the noodles separate from the broth to maintain texture.

Freezing Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef or turkey for different flavors. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen?

The spice level depends on the amount of red pepper flakes used. Start with less and adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What toppings go well with Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen?

You can add soft-boiled eggs, sliced radishes, or sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time is around 30 minutes, making it a quick option for weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen combines savory flavors with delightful textures, making it a versatile dish perfect for any day of the week. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!