If you love vibrant, flavorful meals that come together in a flash, this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. It marries tender chicken, crisp veggies, and those irresistible ramen noodles all coated in a luscious, tangy sauce that sings with hints of ginger, honey, and soy. This dish not only satisfies your craving for something hearty and comforting but also showcases how a simple stir fry can turn everyday ingredients into a spectacular weeknight feast that your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a colorful, appetizing plate.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Ideal for stir-frying without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Offers a fresh, slightly bitter crunch to balance the dish.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds juiciness and a slight acidity to cut through the richness.
- 1 (14 ounce) package ramen noodles, flavor packet reserved: The beloved noodle base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Creates the foundation for the flavorful stir fry sauce.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce: Delivers savory umami and saltiness to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup honey: Balances the salt and acidity with a gentle sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy lift that enlivens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses the stir fry with a rich, nutty aroma.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Offers a hint of warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: For fresh, crisp garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Add a delightful crunch and visual interest.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
How to Make Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
First, pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels—this helps them sear beautifully without steaming. Then, give them a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. This simple seasoning is key for juicy, tasty chicken every time.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat your vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Toss in the chicken and stir occasionally until each piece is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken to a plate and set it aside; this step ensures that the chicken maintains its perfect texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until it turns translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute to release their wonderful aromas. Then, incorporate the sliced red and green bell peppers, stirring and cooking until they start to soften but keep a little crunch—roughly 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While your veggies are cooking, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This vibrant sauce will coat everything with a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture into the wok with the vegetables and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens in 1 to 2 minutes, turning your veggies glossy and full of flavor.
Step 6: Combine Chicken, Tomatoes, and Noodles
Add the undrained diced tomatoes and the cooked chicken back into the wok, stirring to combine all those delicious elements. Break the ramen noodles into smaller pieces and toss them in with about half of the reserved ramen flavor packet (or adjust to your taste). Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the noodles are tender and evenly coated in the luscious sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and garnish your dish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like a little extra texture. This completes your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe, ready to be served immediately!
How to Serve Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes can elevate this dish to another level. Fresh green onions add a burst of color and a mild onion crunch, while toasted sesame seeds lend a nutty bite that perfectly complements the stir fry’s sauce. Don’t skip these little extras—they’re the perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp cucumber salad or steamed edamame makes for refreshing, light side options. A bowl of miso soup or a simple seaweed salad can also turn your dinner into a delightful Asian-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style right in the wok or transfer it to a large, colorful platter to showcase the beautiful array of veggies and noodles. For a fun twist, spoon it into lettuce cups for a handheld treat, or sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch and flavor variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles and chicken hold their texture well, making it a perfect next-day lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for longer, you can freeze portions of the dish. Use freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of noodles can slightly soften after freezing, but it remains tasty and convenient for busy days.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken or dry out a bit in the fridge. Microwave reheating works, too, just cover and stir halfway for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle for the stir fry?
Absolutely! While ramen noodles are classic here, you can substitute with rice noodles, udon, or even spaghetti if needed. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking the noodles.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, simply swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Make sure your soy sauce and any other sauces are vegan-friendly, and enjoy the same delicious flavor profile without the meat.
How spicy is this dish as written?
The optional red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but the dish leans toward being more savory and slightly sweet. You can skip the flakes or add more if you prefer a fiery kick.
Can I prepare ingredients ahead of time?
Definitely! You can chop your veggies and make the sauce ahead to streamline cooking day. Keep chicken refrigerated separately until just before cooking for maximum freshness.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?
Reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of extra chicken broth or water to keep the sauce nice and saucy, stirring often to distribute heat evenly and avoid drying out the noodles or chicken.
Final Thoughts
With its quick prep, outstanding flavor, and comforting textures, the Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe is destined to become one of your go-to dinners. It’s perfect for busy nights when you crave something homemade, delicious, and satisfying. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this dish brings joy to your table.
Print
Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and easy Chicken Ramen Stir Fry recipe that combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and savory ramen noodles in a flavorful soy-honey sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this stir fry is cooked in one pan and packed with vibrant flavors and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Pantry & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (14 ounce) package ramen noodles, flavor packet reserved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper (about ½ teaspoon each) to enhance flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove chicken from the wok and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same wok, add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Add sliced red and green bell peppers and cook until slightly softened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. This sauce will provide a rich, glossy coating for the stir fry.
- Simmer the Sauce with Vegetables: Pour the sauce mixture into the wok with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer while stirring constantly, allowing the sauce to thicken, which should take 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes, Chicken, and Noodles: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes and the cooked chicken. Break ramen noodles into smaller pieces and add them to the wok. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated and heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add about half of the ramen flavor packet or adjust to taste for extra seasoning.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the wok from heat. Garnish the dish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your flavorful chicken ramen stir fry.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- If you prefer spicier food, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and ramen noodles.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated well on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Adding vegetables like snap peas or carrots can increase the nutritional value and color of this dish.
