Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: chicken ramen stir fry! This dish is a total lifesaver when I’m short on time but still want something scrumptious. It’s got everything you need: tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and those perfectly chewy ramen noodles, all coated in a savory sauce that just sings with flavor.
Seriously, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s cooking is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! Plus, it comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy evenings when you want to whip up something delicious without a lot of fuss. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful chicken ramen stir fry. Don’t worry, it’s super simple, and most of these ingredients you might already have on hand!
2 cups ramen noodles (I like the instant kind for quick cooking!)
1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips (the thinner, the better for quick cooking)
2 cups mixed vegetables (I love using bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a pop of color)
3 tablespoons soy sauce (this adds that savory umami kick)
2 tablespoons sesame oil (for that nutty flavor that’s just irresistible)
1 tablespoon garlic, minced (because who can resist garlic?)
1 tablespoon ginger, minced (it gives such a fresh zing!)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish and extra flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste (always taste as you go!)
How to Prepare Chicken Ramen Stir Fry
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—cooking! This chicken ramen stir fry comes together in a snap, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary superstar in your kitchen. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Ramen Noodles
First things first, you’ll want to cook those ramen noodles. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, then toss in the noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still chewy. Make sure not to overcook them! Once done, drain them and set aside. A little tip: drizzle a drop of sesame oil over them to keep them from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next up is the chicken! I like to slice my chicken breast into thin strips—this helps it cook faster and more evenly. Heat some sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your chicken. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. It should be juicy and tender, so keep an eye on it! You want that beautiful golden-brown color on the outside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Once the chicken is looking good, it’s time to add those vibrant mixed vegetables. I usually toss in bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, but feel free to get creative! Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender but still crisp. You want to retain their freshness and color—so don’t let them go soggy!
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Finally, it’s time for the grand finale! Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet with the chicken and veggies. Pour in the soy sauce and give everything a good toss. Make sure the noodles are coated in that delicious sauce; it brings everything together! Season with salt and pepper to taste, and don’t forget to garnish with those lovely chopped green onions before serving. Wow, just thinking about it makes my stomach growl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to whip up in just 25 minutes!
Loaded with protein from the chicken and fiber from the veggies.
Full of flavor with a savory soy sauce and aromatic garlic and ginger.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or whatever’s in your fridge.
One-pan meal means less cleanup—who doesn’t love that?
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your chicken ramen stir fry is absolutely perfect! First off, don’t be shy about adjusting the seasoning. If you like it a bit saltier, add more soy sauce, but go easy—it’s powerful stuff! Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins like shrimp or tofu if chicken isn’t your thing. And if you have leftover cooked chicken, that’ll save you time! When stir-frying, keep your heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic and ginger; trust me, the smell is heavenly, but burnt garlic is a no-go! Lastly, remember to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking—this dish comes together quickly, and you won’t want to scramble at the last minute!
Nutritional Information
Just a heads up—these nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients or brands you use. That said, here’s what you can generally expect per serving of this delicious chicken ramen stir fry:
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
This dish is not only tasty but also a great balance of nutrients for a satisfying meal!
FAQ About Chicken Ramen Stir Fry
Can I use different proteins?
Absolutely! If chicken isn’t your go-to, you can easily swap it out for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times—shrimp cooks faster, while beef might need a bit longer to get tender. Feel free to experiment with whatever protein you love!
What vegetables work best in this dish?
The beauty of this stir fry is its versatility! I love using bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, but you can also try snap peas, zucchini, or bok choy. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to use veggies that stir-fry well, meaning they should be tender-crisp when you’re done.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You sure can! This chicken ramen stir fry is great for meal prep. Just cook everything as directed, let it cool, and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in a skillet or microwave. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, tasty meal during a busy week!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let your chicken ramen stir fry cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to bring it back to life. You can also microwave it, but I prefer the skillet method for that lovely stir-fried texture!
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