20 Minute Chicken Ramen is the comfort food your busy weeknight dreams are made of. Imagine coming home after a long day, slipping off your shoes, and sitting down to a steaming bowl of flavorful chicken ramen — all made in just 20 minutes. This recipe is proof that fast food doesn’t have to mean drive-thru. It’s warm, savory, and brimming with tender chicken, springy noodles, and bright veggies. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just need something satisfying before binge-watching your favorite show, this 20 Minute Chicken Ramen will hit the spot every single time.
Table of Contents
What is 20 Minute Chicken Ramen?
20 Minute Chicken Ramen is a quick, homemade twist on traditional Japanese ramen — the kind that warms you from the inside out. Instead of simmering broth for hours or tracking down hard-to-find ingredients, this version keeps things simple. You’ll use chicken broth, tender slices of chicken breast, instant ramen noodles, and a handful of vegetables for freshness. The sesame oil and soy sauce give it that signature umami flavor, while green onions add a touch of brightness. It’s basically comfort in a bowl, ready before your Netflix preview even ends.
Reasons to Try 20 Minute Chicken Ramen
You know those nights when you’re too tired to cook but too hungry for another sad takeout salad? That’s exactly when 20 Minute Chicken Ramen shines. First off, it’s fast — like, really fast. You can go from fridge to table in under 25 minutes. Second, it’s budget-friendly and uses ingredients you probably already have at home. And finally, it’s customizable. Add mushrooms, swap chicken for tofu, or toss in some chili oil for a spicy kick. If you loved cozy soups like Savory Asian Dumpling Soup or Ginger Garlic Chicken Soup, this one’s about to become your next obsession.
Ingredients Needed to Make 20 Minute Chicken Ramen
- 250g chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles
- 1 cup fresh vegetables (spinach, bok choy, or similar)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions to Make 20 Minute Chicken Ramen (Step by Step)
Let’s walk through this comforting 20 Minute Chicken Ramen step by step, so you can make it with confidence — even on the busiest weeknight. From prepping your chicken to serving up that perfect slurp-worthy bowl, this guide breaks down every move you need to make for flavorful, foolproof results.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients (Step by Step)
Before you start cooking, take a few minutes to organize everything. Slice your chicken breast thinly — this helps it cook faster and stay tender. Chop your green onions, rinse your veggies (spinach, bok choy, or whatever you’re using), and measure out your broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Think of this as your “mise en place” moment — the calm before the flavorful storm.
If you’re looking for more prep inspiration, check out our Vegetable Orzo Soup for easy chopping and seasoning ideas that save time and boost flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Step by Step)
In a medium pot, heat up the sesame oil over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to shimmer slightly. Add your thinly sliced chicken and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir occasionally and let it cook until the chicken turns a light golden brown — about 3 to 5 minutes. This step builds that delicious, savory foundation your ramen needs. The sizzling chicken also adds depth to the broth later on, giving your dish that homemade comfort feel you can’t get from instant noodles alone.
Want more ways to get juicy, flavorful chicken? You might enjoy our Grilled Vietnamese Chicken recipe — it’s full of tips for keeping chicken tender and flavorful in any dish.
Step 3: Build the Broth and Cook the Noodles (Step by Step)
Once your chicken is beautifully seared, pour in the chicken broth. The steam will rise up in a cloud of savory goodness — that’s when you know you’re doing it right. Turn the heat up slightly and bring the broth to a gentle boil. Add your ramen noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 3 minutes. Give them a stir here and there to prevent sticking.
If you’re curious about making homemade broth or want to swap in a richer base, explore our Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup for insights on how to boost umami and create a silky-smooth soup texture.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasoning (Step by Step)
When the noodles are almost tender, toss in your fresh vegetables and soy sauce. This is where your ramen transforms from simple noodles to a vibrant, nourishing bowl. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 2 minutes until the veggies wilt slightly but still keep a bit of crunch. The soy sauce deepens the flavor while the greens add color and nutrients, turning your meal into a balanced, one-pot wonder.
For more creative ways to use greens in soups, take a peek at our Anti-Inflammatory Lentil Soup, which shows how leafy veggies can elevate both taste and nutrition.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust (Step by Step)
Before serving, give your ramen a quick taste test. Need more salt? A splash more soy sauce will do. Want extra depth? A drizzle of sesame oil or a touch of chili paste brings everything together. Tasting as you go ensures your 20 Minute Chicken Ramen ends up perfectly seasoned every time. Don’t be shy — this is your chance to make it just right for you and your family’s palate.
You can also check our Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup for more ideas on adjusting seasonings for layered, complex flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish (Step by Step)
Ladle your steaming ramen into bowls, making sure to scoop up plenty of chicken, veggies, and noodles for each serving. Top with chopped green onions for a burst of freshness. If you want to take things up a notch, add soft-boiled eggs, sesame seeds, or even a drizzle of chili oil for that restaurant-worthy touch. The combination of savory broth and chewy noodles will instantly melt away the stress of your day.
What to Serve with 20 Minute Chicken Ramen
This ramen pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed edamame or a crisp cucumber salad. If you’re craving something heartier, try it alongside a few Crockpot Chicken Fajitas or pan-fried dumplings. And if you’ve got a serious soup streak going, keep the theme alive with Pho Soup for your next meal. Don’t forget a cold drink — iced green tea or even a simple sparkling water with lime helps balance the rich, savory broth.
Key Tips for Making 20 Minute Chicken Ramen
- Slice the chicken thin so it cooks evenly and stays tender.
- Use good broth — it’s the soul of your ramen. If you’ve got homemade, even better.
- Don’t overcook the noodles. You want that chewy, bouncy texture.
- Taste before serving. A splash of soy sauce or a dash of salt at the end can make a big difference.
- Customize away! Add chili flakes for heat, or stir in a spoonful of peanut butter for a creamy spin.
Storage and Reheating Tips for 20 Minute Chicken Ramen
If you somehow have leftovers (good luck with that), store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The noodles will soak up the broth, so when reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up. Warm it gently on the stove or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between rounds. For make-ahead meals, keep the noodles separate from the broth until serving to prevent sogginess. This ramen reheats beautifully and makes an excellent next-day lunch.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! It’s a total time-saver. Just skip the searing step and toss it in when you add the noodles.
Can I make it vegetarian? Of course. Swap chicken broth for veggie broth and use tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken.
Is it spicy? Not by default, but you can easily turn up the heat with chili oil or sriracha.
Can I freeze it? Not recommended — noodles don’t love the freezer. But you can freeze just the broth and add fresh noodles later.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort without the chaos, 20 Minute Chicken Ramen is your new weeknight hero. It’s quick, cozy, and completely satisfying — the kind of meal that reminds you that homemade doesn’t have to mean hard. And with just one pot to wash afterward, it’s practically self-care in a bowl. Hungry for more warm, slurp-worthy ideas? Don’t miss Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup next!
Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.
Print
20 Minute Chicken Ramen
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Quick & Easy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Satisfy your cravings with this quick and easy 20 Minute Chicken Ramen recipe. This comforting bowl combines tender chicken, savory broth, and fresh toppings for a flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy restaurant-quality ramen right at home without the long wait!
Ingredients
- 250g of chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles
- 1 cup of fresh vegetables (spinach, bok choy, or similar)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions.
3. When the noodles are almost done, add the fresh vegetables and soy sauce. Stir to combine and let cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Ladle the ramen into bowls, top with green onions, and any additional toppings you prefer.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a soft-boiled egg, nori sheets, or a drizzle of chili oil. Adjust soy sauce to taste. Use low-sodium broth for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 70
