Introduction
Indulge in a delicious and satisfying meal with this easy-to-follow recipe featuring tender chicken thighs and a medley of vibrant vegetables, all combined with ramen noodles and a flavorful sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but is sure to please the whole family, bringing a delightful fusion of textures and tastes to your 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
– 1½ 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
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
In a large pot of boiling water, cook ramen noodles until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Rinse the cooked noodles with cold water and drain well.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken stock, oyster sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Sriracha to create the sauce mixture.
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 cooked through, 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 onion, diced red bell pepper, and sliced shiitake mushrooms. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger
Stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 6: Combine Sauce and Chicken
Pour in the prepared chicken stock mixture, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all flavors.
Step 7: Combine Noodles and Chicken
Add the cooked ramen noodles and the reserved chicken into the skillet. Toss everything together until heated through and evenly coated in the sauce, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the dish immediately, garnished with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use other types of noodles if you prefer, though cooking times may vary.
Adjusting Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your spice preference.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Vegetarian Option
To make this dish vegetarian, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Cook techniques
Boiling Noodles
Cooking the ramen noodles in boiling water until tender helps achieve the right texture. Rinse them with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Whisking Sauce Ingredients
Combining chicken stock, oyster sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Sriracha in a bowl with a whisk ensures that the ingredients are well blended, which enhances the flavor of the dish.
Searing Chicken
Cooking diced chicken thighs in canola oil over medium heat allows for even cooking and browning, creating a delicious layer of flavor.
Sautéing Vegetables
Adding broccoli, onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet and cooking until tender provides a fresh and vibrant contrast to the protein and noodles.
Adding Aromatics
Incorporating minced garlic and freshly grated ginger during the last moments of cooking the vegetables allows their fragrances to be released, intensifying the overall flavor profile.
Deglazing the Pan
Pouring the sauce mixture into the skillet helps lift any browned bits stuck to the bottom, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
Mixing Ingredients
Tossing in the cooked ramen noodles and chicken ensures that everything is evenly coated in the sauce, providing a cohesive and flavorful meal.
Garnishing
Finishing with green onions and toasted sesame seeds adds a fresh crunch and visual appeal, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you may substitute instant ramen with other noodles like udon or rice noodles, but cooking times may vary.
What can I use instead of chicken thighs?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or firm tofu are great alternatives if you prefer a different protein.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure the oyster sauce is labeled gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables such as carrots, snap peas, or zucchini for added nutrition.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To increase spiciness, add more Sriracha; for a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying ramen dish that perfectly combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce. The addition of Sriracha adds a delightful kick, while the oyster sauce enriches the overall taste. This quick recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stir-Fry Ramen
Replace the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables such as carrots, snap peas, and zucchini, cooked in the same savory sauce for a vegetarian option.
Spicy Shrimp Ramen
Substitute chicken with shrimp and add some lime juice and cilantro for a fresh and zesty twist.
Beef and Broccoli Ramen
Use thinly sliced beef instead of chicken and increase the amount of broccoli for a hearty, classic combination.
Tofu Ramen
For a plant-based version, replace the chicken with diced firm tofu and sauté until golden. Add a splash of soy sauce for additional flavor.
Sweet Chili Chicken Ramen
Add a tablespoon of sweet chili sauce to the sauce mixture for a sweet and spicy flavor profile that pairs well with the vegetables.
