This recipe transforms the humble ramen into an exotic and comforting meal, brimming with vibrant flavors and textures. Combining the convenience of pre-cooked rotisserie chicken with the aromatic allure of green curry, this dish offers a quick yet deeply satisfying culinary experience. The creamy coconut milk base, infused with the warmth of ginger and garlic, the subtle heat of jalapeño, and the umami depth of soy and fish sauce, creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. Crisp-tender snow peas and bell pepper add a delightful crunch, while a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro elevates the dish to a restaurant-worthy creation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Green Curry Chicken Ramen is a weeknight winner! It’s incredibly easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a customizable recipe that can accommodate your dietary needs and taste preferences. If you are sensitive to spice, you can skip the jalapeno pepper. Want to up the protein? Add tofu, shrimp, or more chicken. Best of all, its a crowd-pleasing dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 lime, zested
- 2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken
- 2 (13.5 ounce) cans coconut milk
- 3 cups chicken stock
- ¼ cup green curry paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 2 (3 ounce) packages ramen noodles (without flavor packet)
- 8 ounces snow peas
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation:
Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. The choice of pot is important as it needs to be large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for easy stirring. A heavy-bottomed pot will also help distribute heat evenly, preventing hot spots that could burn the aromatics.
Step 2: Add the minced jalapeño (if using), garlic, ginger, and lime zest to the pot. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Sautéing the aromatics in oil releases their flavors and infuses the oil with their essence. The lime zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the other flavors in the dish.
Step 3: Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot. Stir for about 30 seconds until combined and heated through. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, but you can also use leftover cooked chicken or even grilled chicken.
Step 4: Stir in the coconut milk, chicken stock, green curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The coconut milk creates a creamy and luscious base for the soup. The green curry paste provides the signature flavor of the dish, with its complex blend of herbs, spices, and chilies. The soy sauce and fish sauce add umami depth, while the brown sugar balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness. Dried basil adds a subtle herbaceous note.
Step 5: Add the ramen noodles, snow peas, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente and the vegetables are crisp-tender. Be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they will become mushy. The snow peas and bell pepper add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and aromatic complexity to the dish. Serve hot and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Flavor Complexity: Medium
- Spice Level: Mild to Medium (Adjustable)
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Adjust spice level)
- Overall: 4.5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot in large bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro.
- Offer a side of lime wedges for extra zing.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Serve with a side of steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
- Pair with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Tips:
- Adjust the amount of green curry paste to your preferred spice level. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest and creamiest flavor.
- Don’t overcook the ramen noodles, as they will become mushy.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute tofu for the chicken and vegetable broth for the chicken stock.
- Add other vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or bok choy.
- Top with a soft-boiled egg for extra protein and richness.
- Make it ahead of time: Prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the noodles and vegetables just before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 550-650
- Protein: 30-40 grams
- Sodium: 1200-1500 mg (depending on broth and soy sauce)
Conclusion
This Creamy Green Curry Chicken Ramen is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy to make, and customizable to your taste preferences. The creamy coconut milk base, aromatic spices, and tender chicken create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this delicious twist on classic ramen!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute the rotisserie chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can also replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, and you’ll still achieve a delicious and flavorful vegetarian ramen.
Q2: I don’t like spicy food. Can I make this recipe less spicy?
A: Yes, definitely! The heat in this recipe comes primarily from the jalapeño and the green curry paste. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit the jalapeño altogether. Additionally, start with a smaller amount of green curry paste and add more to taste, until you reach your desired level of spiciness.
Q3: Can I use different types of noodles?
A: While ramen noodles are traditional for this dish, you can certainly experiment with other types of noodles. Udon noodles, soba noodles, or even egg noodles would work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for your chosen noodle type.
Q4: Can I freeze this ramen?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze this ramen with the noodles included, as the noodles tend to become mushy and lose their texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the soup base separately. Simply prepare the soup base according to the recipe instructions, let it cool completely, and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy the ramen, thaw the soup base, bring it to a simmer, and then add freshly cooked ramen noodles and vegetables.
Q5: Can I add protein besides chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can customize this recipe with your favorite protein sources. Shrimp, pork, beef, or even hard-boiled eggs would be excellent additions. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that your chosen protein is cooked through. You can also add sliced tofu or edamame for plant-based protein.
