Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Savory, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying, Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, this ramen delivers flavors that warm your soul. The tender chicken thighs glazed in a ginger sauce add a delightful twist to the rich broth filled with shiitake mushrooms and fresh spinach. Experience a comforting bowl of noodles that combines the best of American and Japanese cuisines!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible glaze that elevates the chicken.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like boiled eggs or additional vegetables for a personalized touch.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With protein, carbs, and veggies all in one bowl, this ramen is a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love slurping up noodles, making this dish a hit for family dinners.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or stockpot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or stockpot: This is ideal for simmering the flavorful broth to perfection.
• Skillet: Used to sear the chicken thighs and create that delicious glaze.
• Colander: Helps strain the broth efficiently while keeping solids separate for a smooth base.

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
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 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 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

Add all ramen broth ingredients to a large Dutch oven or stockpot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to MED/MED-LOW and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Thighs

While the broth is simmering:
1. Season chicken thighs with black pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over MED-HIGH heat.
3. Cook chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 3: Glaze the Chicken

Whisk together remaining glazed chicken ingredients (light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic). Pour over chicken thighs in the skillet:
1. Cook mixture down until syrupy and thick.
2. Turn chicken occasionally to glaze on both sides; this usually takes about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

Remove chicken thighs from skillet to a cutting board. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 5: Strain the Broth

Once broth has finished simmering:
1. Place a very large mixing bowl in your sink with a colander inside.
2. Pour broth over the colander to strain solids from your broth.
3. Add pot back to stove; carefully pour strained broth back into it.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Add mushrooms to the pot:
1. Cook for 2-3 minutes over MED heat.
2. Add spinach and sesame oil; cook another 3 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Ramen Noodles

Boil water in another pot:
1. Cook ramen noodles for one minute less than package directions specify.
2. Drain noodles and divide among four bowls.

Step 8: Assemble Your Ramen Bowls

Top each bowl with hot ramen broth filled with mushrooms and spinach:
1. Add sliced chicken on top of each bowl.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and any additional toppings you prefer.
3. Serve hot!

How to Serve Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Serving Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen can elevate your dining experience. With a variety of toppings and side options, you can customize each bowl to suit your taste. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Add Some Spice

• Sriracha: A drizzle of Sriracha adds heat and a tangy flavor.
• Chili Oil: Just a few drops of chili oil can enhance the dish with a rich depth.

Fresh Herbs and Greens

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves for an aromatic touch.
• Basil: Thai basil offers a unique flavor that complements the ginger.

Crunchy Toppings

• Toasted Sesame Seeds: These add a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
• Fried Shallots: Crispy fried shallots provide texture and sweetness.

Additional Proteins

• Soft-Boiled Egg: A perfectly cooked egg adds creaminess to each bite.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu cubes work well.

How to Perfect Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Perfecting your Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is all about attention to detail. With these tips, you can enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish.

• flavors: Use fresh ginger and garlic for an intense aroma and taste.
• Quality broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for richer flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust soy sauce or sugar based on your preference.
• Cook noodles separately: This prevents them from becoming too soft in the broth.
• Garnish thoughtfully: Use colorful toppings to make your dish visually appealing.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy while hot for the best texture and flavor experience.

Best Side Dishes for Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Pairing side dishes with your Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent choices to complement your main dish.

1. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a protein-packed snack that pairs well with ramen.
2. Seaweed Salad: A refreshing seaweed salad adds a salty, tangy contrast to the rich ramen.
3. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): These pickles offer crunch and acidity, balancing the flavors in your bowl.
4. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar helps cleanse the palate.
5. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura veggies are a delightful crunchy addition alongside ramen.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the meal with its umami flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the broth simmering: Not allowing the broth to simmer can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Let it bubble gently to enhance the taste.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken thighs for too long can make them tough. Aim for a golden brown on both sides, around 4-5 minutes each.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the overall dish. Opt for fresh ginger and high-quality soy sauce for the best results.

• Not straining the broth: Leaving solids in the broth can create a gritty texture. Strain it well to ensure a smooth and rich ramen experience.

• Forgetting about toppings: Neglecting to add toppings can make your ramen feel incomplete. Consider slicing green onions or adding a soft-boiled egg for extra flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen:

Can I make Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and chicken ahead of time. Simply reheat when ready to serve.

What can I add to customize my Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen?

Feel free to add vegetables like bok choy or carrots, or even switch up proteins with tofu or beef for variety.

Is Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on how many red pepper flakes you use. Adjust according to your taste preference!

How long does Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen last in the refrigerator?

It will stay fresh for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is a comforting and delicious meal perfect for any day of the week. Its savory broth and tender chicken bring warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings or vegetables for a personal touch!