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Quick Savory Chicken Ramen Recipe with Sesame and Bok Choy

quick savory chicken ramen - featured image

A fast and comforting chicken ramen with toasted sesame oil, fresh bok choy, and tender chicken thighs, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 packs ramen noodles (fresh or dried)
  • 2 cups chopped bok choy
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 4 cups chicken broth (1 liter)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until edges are lightly golden but chicken is not fully cooked.
  4. Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer, about 3 minutes.
  5. Simmer the broth for 8-10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and broth is flavorful.
  6. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions (3-4 minutes in boiling water), then drain and set aside. For fresh noodles, add directly to broth in the last minute of simmering.
  7. Add chopped bok choy to the simmering broth and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp and bright green.
  8. Add cooked noodles to the broth and stir gently to combine and warm through. Remove from heat and drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon sesame oil over the top.
  9. Ladle ramen into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Add black pepper if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook bok choy to keep it crisp and vibrant. Use toasted sesame oil for finishing, not cooking, to avoid bitterness. Prepping noodles separately prevents sogginess. Fresh ginger and garlic are essential for best flavor. For vegetarian version, swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken ramen, quick ramen, sesame oil, bok choy, easy dinner, savory ramen, homemade ramen, weeknight meal