Buttery, garlicky chicken ramen that comes together fast—perfect for busy nights when you want serious flavor. #garliclover #quickdinners #ramenideas
Garlic Butter Chicken Ramen
When you need a cozy, quick dinner that’s full of flavor, this Garlic Butter Chicken Ramen is the answer. Tender chicken, a rich garlic butter sauce, and springy ramen noodles come together for an indulgent meal that’s perfect for busy nights or when you need a little comfort in a bowl.
It’s simple, satisfying, and ready in 20 minutes—sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
1. Yield, Time & Tools
- Yield: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, medium pot, whisk, tongs
2. Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
For the Noodles & Garnish:
- 3 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
3. Preparation Steps
A. Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
B. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth, soy sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer 2-3 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
C. Cook the Ramen Noodles
- While sauce simmers, cook ramen noodles in boiling water according to package directions.
- Drain well.
D. Combine Everything
- Add cooked chicken and drained noodles to the skillet with garlic butter sauce.
- Toss until noodles and chicken are well coated.
E. Serve It Up
- Divide into bowls.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
4. Tips & Variations
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Swap ramen with udon or spaghetti noodles if you prefer.
5. Troubleshooting FAQ
Sauce too thin?
Simmer longer or add 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water.
Too garlicky?
Cut garlic to 3 cloves for a milder flavor.
Noodles clumping?
Toss immediately with sauce after draining to prevent sticking.
6. Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp side salad.
- Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping.
- Leftovers make a tasty garlic chicken ramen stir-fry.
7. Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Make-Ahead Tips: Chicken can be cooked 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge; reheat gently before tossing with sauce and noodles.
Freezer Instructions: Not recommended; noodles lose texture after freezing.