Spicy Sesame Chicken Ramen

Spicy Sesame Chicken Ramen is a bold and flavorful noodle dish that combines tender chicken, rich sesame broth, and a satisfying kick of heat. This dish offers the comfort of classic ramen with the complexity of spicy and nutty flavors—all made easily at home. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something warming and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, savory flavor with a satisfying spicy kick.

• Ready in less than 40 minutes—faster than takeout.

• Combines protein, carbs, and broth in one comforting bowl.

• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and toppings.

• Offers the richness of restaurant-style ramen in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless chicken thighs or breasts (sliced or shredded)

• Ramen noodles (instant or fresh)

• Garlic (minced)

• Ginger (minced or grated)

• Soy sauce

• Sesame oil

• Chili garlic sauce or Sriracha

• Chicken broth

• Rice vinegar

• Brown sugar or honey

• Green onions

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Optional toppings: boiled egg, spinach, mushrooms, shredded carrots

Directions

1. Cook the chicken: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the broth: Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce (or Sriracha), rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

4. Add the noodles: Add ramen noodles to the broth and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes, until tender.

5. Return chicken to pot: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir to combine and heat through.

6. Finish and serve: Ladle ramen into bowls. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and your choice of toppings such as boiled eggs or vegetables.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Use tofu or tempeh and substitute vegetable broth.

• Add greens: Toss in spinach, bok choy, or kale during the final minutes of cooking.

• Make it creamier: Add a tablespoon of tahini or peanut butter to the broth.

• Adjust spice level: Reduce chili sauce for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.

• Try different noodles: Use udon, soba, or rice noodles as alternatives.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. For best texture, store broth and noodles separately if possible to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Add it after the noodles have cooked to warm through.

Are instant ramen noodles okay to use?

Yes, just discard the seasoning packet and use the noodles. Fresh ramen or other noodles can also be used.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a moderate heat level, but the spice can be adjusted easily by adding more or less chili garlic sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

What broth is best?

Low-sodium chicken broth is ideal to balance the strong flavors in the sauce and spices.

Can I freeze ramen?

It’s best not to freeze ramen with noodles, as they become mushy. You can freeze the broth and chicken separately, then add fresh noodles later.

What can I add for more umami?

A splash of fish sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste adds depth and richness to the broth.

How do I make it creamier?

Add coconut milk or a spoonful of tahini to the broth for a creamy twist.

Can I cook this in advance?

Yes, but for best results, keep noodles and broth separate until just before serving.

What toppings work well?

Soft-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, sautéed mushrooms, bean sprouts, and nori strips all complement the ramen beautifully.

Conclusion

Spicy Sesame Chicken Ramen is the perfect combination of warmth, heat, and savory comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings restaurant-style ramen home with ease. Enjoy the rich sesame broth, tender chicken, and customizable toppings for a satisfying, flavorful experience.

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