Spicy Korean Ramen with Grilled Chicken

Spicy Korean Ramen with Grilled Chicken is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the bold, spicy elements of Korean cuisine with the comforting warmth of ramen noodles. This dish features tender grilled chicken marinated in a savory blend of gochujang and soy sauce, served atop a rich, spicy broth filled with noodles and fresh vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of gochujang, garlic, and soy sauce creates a deeply flavorful and spicy broth that is both comforting and invigorating.
• Satisfying Texture: Grilled chicken adds a smoky, charred flavor and a satisfying protein component to the dish.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables or toppings to make it your own.
• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or thighs
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Honey
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh ginger
• Ramen noodles
• Chicken broth
• Kimchi
• Shiitake mushrooms
• Bok choy
• Green onions
• Soft-boiled eggs (optional)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until fully cooked and slightly charred on both sides. Remove and let rest before slicing.
3. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer. Add chopped kimchi, sliced shiitake mushrooms, and bok choy. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the Ramen: Divide the cooked noodles into bowls. Pour the hot broth and vegetables over the noodles. Top with sliced grilled chicken, chopped green onions, and halved soft-boiled eggs if using.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute grilled tofu or tempeh for the chicken and use vegetable broth.
• Seafood: Add shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Extra Spicy: Increase the amount of gochujang or add sliced chili peppers to the broth.
• Mild Version: Reduce the amount of gochujang and omit the kimchi for a less spicy broth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the broth on the stovetop until simmering. Warm the noodles by briefly submerging them in hot water to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented red chili paste made from chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It has a spicy, sweet, and savory flavor profile.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply slice and add it to the ramen before serving.

Is there a substitute for gochujang?

If gochujang is unavailable, a combination of red chili paste and a touch of sugar can mimic its flavor, though the depth of taste may vary.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and ensure the ramen noodles are gluten-free.

How can I make the broth richer?

Simmering the broth with additional aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger can enhance its depth of flavor.

What vegetables can I add?

Common additions include spinach, bean sprouts, corn, and carrots. Feel free to use your favorites.

Can I prepare the broth in advance?

Yes, the broth can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

How do I achieve a perfect soft-boiled egg?

Boil eggs for 6-7 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Is this dish suitable for children?

Adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the gochujang and kimchi to make it more kid-friendly.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, udon or rice noodles can be used as alternatives to ramen noodles.

Conclusion

Spicy Korean Ramen with Grilled Chicken is a delightful fusion of bold Korean flavors and comforting ramen. Its customizable nature allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re seeking a spicy kick or a hearty meal, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bowl.

Sources

Print