These Sweet Chili Ramen Noodles are a perfect blend of spicy and sweet. With a quick sauce made from chili and honey, it’s bursting with flavor in just minutes!
I’m telling you, it’s so easy to whip up after a long day. Plus, who doesn’t love noodles swimming in a sticky, yummy sauce? I add a sprinkle of sesame seeds—adds a tasty crunch! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ramen Noodles: Instant ramen is super convenient! If you don’t have it, you can use fresh noodles or any quick-cooking noodle. Rice noodles also work nicely, especially for a gluten-free dish.
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken adds protein and flavor, but you can swap it with tofu or edamame for a vegetarian option. Cooked shrimp or beef are also great alternatives if you prefer something different.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce brings sweetness and heat. If you want it less sweet, you can mix chili paste with a bit of honey, or use sriracha with some sugar for a similar kick.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is mild and cooks quickly. You could substitute it with kale, bok choy, or any leafy green you like. Just make sure to adjust cooking time as needed!
How Do You Make a Perfect Soft Boiled Egg?
A soft-boiled egg adds creaminess to your ramen. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Use enough water to cover the eggs.
- Carefully lower the eggs into the water using a spoon.
- Set a timer for 6-7 minutes, depending on how runny you like the yolk.
- Once done, transfer the eggs to an ice bath for a few minutes to stop the cooking.
- Peel carefully under running water to help with any stubborn shell pieces!
Enjoy the creamy texture they bring to your ramen!
Sweet Chili Ramen Noodles Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 3 oz) instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
- 1 cup cooked ground chicken (or tofu for vegetarian option)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach or other leafy greens
- 1 large egg (soft boiled or poached)
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 green onion, sliced
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making it a perfect quick meal for busy evenings. So in about 25 minutes, you’ll be ready to enjoy your sweet and spicy ramen noodles!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Soft Boiled Egg:
Start by boiling water in a pot. Once it’s boiling, gently add the egg (be careful!). Let it boil for 6-7 minutes for a nice runny yolk. After that, remove the egg and place it in cold water to cool down, then peel the shell off when cool enough to handle.
2. Heat the Broth:
In a medium-sized pot, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the cooked ground chicken (or tofu) to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Add Flavorings:
Stir in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This is where the magic happens—your broth will turn savory and sweet!
5. Toss in Noodles and Greens:
Add the instant ramen noodles and fresh spinach to the pot. Cook according to the directions on the ramen package, usually about 3 minutes, until the noodles are tender and the spinach has wilted nicely.
6. Assemble Your Bowl:
Carefully ladle the ramen noodles and broth into a bowl. It’s going to smell heavenly!
7. Add the Egg:
Slice your soft boiled egg in half and place it right on top of the noodles. Look at that yolk!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and optional red chili flakes for a touch of heat. Serve it hot and enjoy your delightful bowl of Sweet Chili Ramen Noodles!
Enjoy your meal! 😊
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While instant ramen is quick and convenient, you can use fresh ramen, udon noodles, or even rice noodles as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the cooked ground chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein like tempeh or edamame. Ensure the broth is vegetable-based as well!
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
If you’re out of sweet chili sauce, you can mix equal parts sriracha and honey for a homemade substitute. This will give you a similar sweet-heat profile that works wonderfully in this dish.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the noodles, as they may absorb liquid while stored.
