Easy Chicken Ramen Soup
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy Chicken Ramen Soup is a comforting and quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it will warm you up in no time.
This Easy Chicken Ramen Soup is a delightful twist on traditional ramen, bringing together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s a perfect dish for those chilly evenings or when you need a quick, nourishing meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
- Comforting and satisfying for the whole family
- Loaded with nutritious ingredients and flavors
A Quick and Nutritious Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This Easy Chicken Ramen Soup is an excellent solution, delivering both speed and nutrition. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
The inclusion of fresh vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, and carrots not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is not only comforting but also a smart choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the most appealing aspects of this ramen soup is its versatility. While the recipe provides a delicious base, feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Consider adding protein like tofu or shrimp for a different twist, or toss in additional vegetables such as bell peppers or bok choy to boost the nutritional value further.
You can also adjust the flavor by experimenting with different sauces or spices. A splash of chili oil can add heat, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds offers a delightful crunch. This adaptability ensures that your ramen soup can be tailored to suit any family’s preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Easy Chicken Ramen Soup is not only quick to make but is also fantastic for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a satisfying meal in no time.
For those who prefer to freeze their meals, this soup freezes well too. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When stored properly, it can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to add the noodles fresh when reheating to keep them from becoming mushy.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Broth
In the same pot, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then bring to a boil.
Add Vegetables and Noodles
Once boiling, add the mushrooms, carrots, and the cooked chicken (shredded). Stir in the soy sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Add the ramen noodles and spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced green onions. Enjoy your delicious homemade ramen!
Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking!
Storage Tips
To ensure your Easy Chicken Ramen Soup stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’ve made a large batch, consider portioning it out for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits, making leftovers even more enjoyable.
If you plan to freeze the soup, avoid adding the noodles until you’re ready to eat. Instead, cook the noodles separately and combine them with the reheated soup. This method helps maintain their texture and keeps them from becoming overly soft.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving your ramen soup with a side of Asian-inspired appetizers. Spring rolls or dumplings make excellent companions, adding a delightful crunch and variety to your meal. These can be easily found at your local grocery store or made from scratch for a personal touch.
A light salad with a sesame dressing can also complement the rich flavors of the ramen. This refreshing addition balances the warmth of the soup and adds a nutritious boost, making your meal even more satisfying.
Health Benefits
This Easy Chicken Ramen Soup is not just a tasty dish; it's also packed with health benefits. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Meanwhile, the variety of vegetables adds fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
The broth serves as a base rich in hydration, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels. Incorporating ingredients like garlic and spinach increases the soup’s antioxidant properties, helping to support your immune system and overall well-being. Enjoying this soup regularly can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute ramen with udon noodles or any other pasta of your choice.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and soy sauce alternatives.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and vegetables ahead of time. Just add the noodles and spinach when you're ready to eat.
→ What can I add for extra protein?
You can add tofu or edamame for additional protein options if you're looking for a vegetarian version.
Easy Chicken Ramen Soup
This Easy Chicken Ramen Soup is a comforting and quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it will warm you up in no time.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then bring to a boil.
Once boiling, add the mushrooms, carrots, and the cooked chicken (shredded). Stir in the soy sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Add the ramen noodles and spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced green onions. Enjoy your delicious homemade ramen!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g