Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Savory and delightful, Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is an exceptional dish that combines glazed chicken thighs with a rich broth filled with shiitake mushrooms and fresh spinach. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this ramen recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The unique blend of sweet and savory makes it a standout meal that satisfies any craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of ginger, soy sauce, and mirin creates a deliciously complex taste.
• Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your ramen by adding different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, providing a filling meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it in beautiful bowls topped with green onions for an appealing finish.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven or stockpot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven or stockpot: Essential for simmering the flavorful ramen broth evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken thighs to achieve that golden brown color while retaining juiciness.
• Colander: Helps strain solids from the broth, ensuring your soup has a smooth texture.

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 (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

Remove chicken thighs to a cutting board to rest for a few minutes. Slice thinly once rested.

Step 5: Strain the Broth

Once ramen broth has simmered:
1. Place a very large mixing bowl in your sink and add a colander.
2. Pour broth over colander to strain solids from your broth.
3. Add pot back to stove; carefully pour strained broth back into pot.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Spinach

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

Step 7: Cook Ramen Noodles

In another pot:
1. Boil water and cook ramen noodles for 1 minute less than package directions specify.
2. Drain noodles; 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 along with green onions.
2. Include any additional toppings you desire before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen!

How to Serve Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Serving Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is not only about the dish itself but also about enhancing the overall dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this savory meal.

Garnish Ideas

• Sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty flavor and crunch.
• Chili oil: Drizzle chili oil over the ramen for an extra kick of heat.
• Fresh herbs: Add cilantro or basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Complementary Toppings

• Soft-boiled eggs: Add a perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg for richness and texture.
• Nori strips: Include strips of nori (seaweed) for a hint of ocean flavor.
• Pickled vegetables: Enhance the dish with pickled radishes or cucumbers for acidity.

Presentation Tips

• Layering ingredients: Arrange noodles, broth, chicken, and veggies in layers for a beautiful presentation.
• Serve in large bowls: Use deep bowls to hold everything together and make it easy to enjoy every bite.

How to Perfect Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Perfecting your Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen can elevate your cooking skills and impress anyone at the table. Here are some tips to take your ramen to the next level.

• Use quality broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Balance flavors: Ensure the glaze has a good balance between sweet, salty, and spicy elements.
• Cook noodles al dente: Avoid overcooking ramen noodles; they should have a slight bite to them.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like corn or bamboo shoots to personalize your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

Pairing side dishes with your Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious main course.

1. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides protein and a crunchy texture.
2. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crispness.
3. Miso Soup: This traditional soup offers umami flavors that pair well with ramen.
4. Seaweed Salad: A tangy seaweed salad adds freshness and enhances the Asian theme of your meal.
5. Gyoza: Delicious dumplings filled with meat or vegetables make for a hearty side option.
6. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar brings brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Broth Straining: Not straining the broth can leave a gritty texture. Always strain to achieve a smooth, rich flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken thighs can become dry. Cook them just until golden brown for juicy results.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can dull flavors. Fresh garlic and ginger make a significant difference.
• Not Adjusting Spice Levels: Adding too many red pepper flakes can overwhelm the dish. Start with less and adjust to your taste preference.
• Neglecting to Prepare Toppings: Skipping toppings like green onions or sesame seeds can reduce visual appeal and flavor complexity. Always add a finishing touch!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat in short intervals, stirring between.
• Stovetop: Add to a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen that might help you while cooking:

Can I use other types of noodles for Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen?

Yes! You can substitute ramen noodles with soba or udon noodles based on your preference.

How spicy is the Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen?

The spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. Start small and increase gradually for your desired heat level.

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

Feel free to include veggies like bok choy, carrots, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Ginger Glazed Chicken Ramen is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and vegetables to suit your taste. Try it today for a warming meal that everyone will love!