Craving a delicious, satisfying meal that’s on the table in less time than it takes to choose a movie? This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is your new weeknight hero. We’re transforming humble instant ramen noodles into a vibrant, flavor-packed stir fry with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that clings to every noodle. Forget takeout; this is faster, fresher, and infinitely more delicious.
This recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s designed for busy people who still want a home-cooked meal that feels a little special. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that proves you don’t need a lot of time to create something amazing.
Why This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry Belongs in Your Recipe Rotation
In a world of complicated recipes, this simple stir fry stands out. It’s the perfect answer to the “what’s for dinner?” dilemma.
- Incredibly Fast: We’re talking about a complete meal in under 20 minutes. The prep is minimal, and the cooking is even faster.
- Budget-Friendly: Built on the foundation of affordable instant ramen and chicken, this dish is as easy on your wallet as it is on your schedule.
- Completely Customizable: Don’t have broccoli? Use bell peppers. Want to add mushrooms? Go for it! This recipe is a fantastic base for whatever veggies you have in your fridge.
- Better Than Takeout: You control the ingredients, meaning less sodium, no MSG, and all the fresh flavor you crave. It’s a healthier, tastier alternative.
The Essential Ingredients
The magic of this dish lies in its simple, accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing chicken and ramen stir fry.
For the Stir Fry Sauce:
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Provides the savory, umami base of our sauce.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic depth that is essential for a great stir fry.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce. Honey or maple syrup also work well.
- Garlic & Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger are the aromatic powerhouses of this dish.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a hint of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
For the Main Dish:
- Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin, bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Instant Ramen Noodles: Two packets of your favorite brand. You’ll discard the seasoning packets.
- Avocado or Vegetable Oil: For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Broccoli & Carrots: These add color, crunch, and nutrients. Feel free to substitute with your favorite stir-fry veggies.
- Green Onions & Sesame Seeds: For a fresh, flavorful garnish.
If you enjoy quick chicken dinners, you might also love this simple One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Orzo recipe.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Chicken Ramen Stir Fry
Follow these simple steps to get a perfect stir fry every time. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking—a concept known as ‘mise en place’.
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Sauce
First, bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package directions, but for about 1 minute less than recommended to ensure they are al dente. They will finish cooking in the pan. Drain them immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. While the noodles cook, whisk together all the sauce ingredients—soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and rice vinegar—in a small bowl. Set both aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the broccoli florets and julienned carrots to the same hot skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. You want them to be cooked but still have a bit of a bite. If the pan seems dry, you can add a tablespoon of water or a splash of the sauce to help steam the veggies.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the drained ramen noodles to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over everything. Use tongs to gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the noodles to absorb the flavor.
For those who love Asian-inspired bowl meals, our Shrimp Rice Bowl is another fantastic and quick option.
Pro Tips for Stir Fry Success
Want to elevate your stir fry game? Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is a smashing success.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: The single most important tip! Undercooking them slightly before adding them to the pan prevents them from becoming mushy.
- High Heat is Key: A hot wok or skillet is crucial for getting a good sear on the chicken and vegetables, locking in flavor and texture.
- Prep in Advance: Stir-frying is a very fast cooking process. Have all your vegetables chopped, your sauce mixed, and your chicken sliced before you even turn on the stove.
- Slice Chicken Thinly: Cutting the chicken into thin, uniform pieces ensures it cooks quickly and evenly without drying out.
Delicious Variations to Try
This recipe is a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Make it Spicy: Add a teaspoon of sriracha, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or some chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture for a fiery kick.
- Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, bok choy, or edamame are all excellent additions.
- Protein Swap: This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, thinly sliced beef, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian option. If you’re a fan of beef, you might draw inspiration from our Philly Cheesesteak Casserole for flavor ideas.
- Add an Egg: Push the stir fry to one side of the pan and scramble an egg in the empty space. Once cooked, mix it into the noodles.
Yes, this recipe works great with other proteins. Try it with shrimp (cook for 1-2 minutes per side), thinly sliced steak, or pan-fried tofu for a vegetarian option.
Absolutely! If using fresh ramen noodles, cook them according to their package directions, which is usually only for a minute or two. Be sure to drain them well before adding them to the stir fry.
To add some heat, whisk 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce into your sauce mixture. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet when you cook the vegetables.
This recipe is very versatile. Sliced bell peppers (any color), snow peas, mushrooms, edamame, and baby corn are all excellent additions. Add them with the broccoli and carrots and cook until tender-crisp.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the noodles until everything is warmed through.
Yes, this recipe works great with other proteins. Try it with shrimp (cook for 1-2 minutes per side), thinly sliced steak, or pan-fried tofu for a vegetarian option.
Absolutely! If using fresh ramen noodles, cook them according to their package directions, which is usually only for a minute or two. Be sure to drain them well before adding them to the stir fry.
To add some heat, whisk 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce into your sauce mixture. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet when you cook the vegetables.
This recipe is very versatile. Sliced bell peppers (any color), snow peas, mushrooms, edamame, and baby corn are all excellent additions. Add them with the broccoli and carrots and cook until tender-crisp.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the noodles until everything is warmed through.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious! To store, allow the stir fry to cool completely and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, you can either microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through or, for the best texture, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles and sauce as you stir.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this quick and flavorful dish, you’re in the right place! We believe delicious food shouldn’t be complicated. Try another one of our easy weeknight dinners to keep your meal plan exciting and stress-free.
Did You Make This Recipe?
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Chicken Ramen Stir Fry: The 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner Rescue
This Chicken Ramen Stir Fry transforms humble instant ramen into a vibrant, flavor-packed meal with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight dinner rescue—faster and fresher than takeout.
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Cook ramen noodles according to package directions, but for 1 minute less time. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water. In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients: soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- To the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and carrots. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained ramen noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Use tongs to toss and coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Don't Overcook Noodles: Rinsing the noodles in cold water after draining stops the cooking process and prevents them from sticking together.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms.
Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients chopped and the sauce mixed before you start cooking for a smooth, fast process.
Chicken Ramen Stir Fry: The 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner Rescue
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Cook ramen noodles according to package directions, but for 1 minute less time. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water. In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients: soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- To the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and carrots. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained ramen noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Use tongs to toss and coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms.
Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients chopped and the sauce mixed before you start cooking for a smooth, fast process.
