Looking for a quick and tasty dinner option? My Sesame Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is the answer! This meal is easy to make and packed with flavor. You only need a few ingredients and a little time. I’ll share step-by-step instructions, tips, and even variations to suit your taste. Dive into this delicious dish for a fun weeknight dinner that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sesame oil, ginger, and garlic creates a delicious and aromatic dish.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or protein to suit your taste.
- Comfort Food: This stir fry satisfies cravings for both ramen and a hearty meal, making it a favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 packs of instant ramen noodles, discard the seasoning packets
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snap peas
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
You can make this dish even better with some add-ins. Consider adding:
– Carrots for extra crunch and color
– Mushrooms for an earthy flavor
– Baby corn for sweetness
– Spinach for a boost of greens
Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home.
Nutritional Information
This dish offers a balanced meal. Each serving provides:
– Protein from chicken
– Carbs from ramen
– Healthy fats from sesame oil
– Vitamins from fresh veggies
For a rough estimate, each serving has about:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 50g
– Fats: 15g
Adjust your portions based on your needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Ramen Noodles
First, boil water in a pot. Once the water bubbles, add the ramen noodles. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. They should be soft but firm. After cooking, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Preparing the Chicken
Next, heat sesame oil and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken thighs to the hot oil. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes. You want the chicken to turn golden brown and be fully cooked.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Once the chicken is done, add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry these for 1-2 minutes. This helps release a great aroma. Then, toss in the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
Combining the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Once combined, pour this sauce over the chicken and veggies in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Finishing Touches
Now, gently fold in the cooked ramen noodles. Make sure the noodles are well-coated with the sauce. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Toss everything lightly to combine. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Adding Flavor
To boost flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and ginger add depth. Instead of plain soy sauce, try a low-sodium version. Honey gives a sweet touch, while rice vinegar adds tang. You can also add chili flakes for heat if you like spice. Experiment with sesame seeds; toasted ones have a richer flavor.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For tender chicken, avoid overcooking. Slice the chicken thinly for faster cooking. Keep the heat medium-high to get a nice sear. Cook veggies until tender-crisp for a great bite. Do not overcrowd the pan; this helps evenly cook everything. When adding ramen, fold gently to keep it from breaking apart.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip the seasoning on the chicken. A little salt and pepper make a big difference. Avoid cooking the noodles too long; they should be al dente. If you add sauce too early, it can burn. Lastly, remember to toss the dish before serving to mix the flavors evenly.
Pro Tips
- Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand; carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms work great too!
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make it a Meal Prep: This stir fry is perfect for meal prep. Divide into containers and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Replace the chicken with tofu. Tofu absorbs flavors well, making it a great choice. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Cut it into cubes and sauté it just like the chicken. You can also add more veggies, like carrots or mushrooms, for extra flavor and color.
Extra Protein Ideas
Want more protein? You can add shrimp or beef. Shrimp cooks quickly, so add it in the last few minutes. For beef, try thin slices of flank steak. Cook the beef in the same way as the chicken. You could also use edamame for a plant-based protein boost. It adds a nice crunch and pairs well with the noodles.
Different Sauces and Seasonings
Feel free to change up the sauce. You can use teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor. Hoisin sauce also works well if you like a richer taste. For a spicy kick, add some chili paste or sriracha. You can even mix in some peanut butter for a unique twist. Just adjust the amount of honey to keep the balance right.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftover sesame chicken ramen stir fry in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps keep the flavors intact.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the stir fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
Reheat your sesame chicken ramen stir fry on the stove. Add a bit of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat over medium until warm. You can also use the microwave. Place it in a bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst to avoid hot spots. Enjoy it just like the first time!
FAQs
Can I use different noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different noodles. Udon, soba, or rice noodles work well. Each type gives a unique taste and texture. Just adjust cooking times as needed. Make sure to cook them until tender.
What can I substitute for chicken?
If you want a change, try tofu or shrimp. Both options absorb flavors well. You can also use beef or pork if you prefer. Just slice them thinly for quick cooking.
How to make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles. Rice noodles or gluten-free ramen are good choices. Also, check your soy sauce. Use tamari or a gluten-free brand for safe eating.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep some parts in advance. Cook the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time. Store them in the fridge. However, I recommend cooking the noodles fresh. This keeps them from getting soggy.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty ramen dish. We looked at key ingredients, the right cooking steps, and helpful tips. You can customize your ramen with different proteins and sauces, too. Don’t forget the storage tips for leftovers.
Remember, making ramen at home is fun and simple. Use this guide to craft a meal you will love every time. Enjoy your cookin
