20 Minute Chicken Ramen – Quick, Easy, and Delicious Dinner

20 Minute Chicken Ramen is your new weeknight lifesaver. Imagine this: you’ve just walked in from work, your kids are circling the kitchen asking, “What’s for dinner?” and you’re this close to dialing takeout. But hold that phone, friend—because in just 20 minutes, you can whip up a cozy, flavor-packed bowl of ramen that tastes like it came straight out of your favorite noodle bar.

This recipe combines juicy chicken, slurp-worthy noodles, and a soul-soothing broth that makes any long day instantly better. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, healthy-ish, and endlessly customizable. Want to add a soft-boiled egg? Go for it. Prefer extra greens? Toss them in. With 20 Minute Chicken Ramen, dinner is not only doable—it’s downright crave-worthy.

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What is 20 Minute Chicken Ramen?

Think of 20 Minute Chicken Ramen as comfort food meets efficiency. It’s a quicker, easier version of traditional Japanese ramen, designed for real-life kitchens. Instead of hours spent simmering broth, you’ll create a deeply flavorful base using chicken broth, sesame oil, and soy sauce in minutes. The result? A steaming bowl that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying without the fuss.

This isn’t your dorm room instant ramen either—this one’s got real ingredients, real texture, and real love. Tender slices of chicken breast bring protein power, while a mix of veggies adds freshness and color. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself after a long day, this ramen hits that sweet spot of fast, nourishing, and delicious.

Reasons to Try 20 Minute Chicken Ramen

There are plenty of reasons why 20 Minute Chicken Ramen deserves a spot in your dinner rotation. First, it’s quick—like “make-it-faster-than-delivery” quick. With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a steaming bowl of comfort before your favorite show even starts. Second, it’s flexible. You can swap in leftover chicken, tofu, or shrimp depending on what’s in your fridge.

Third, it’s family-friendly. Even picky eaters love the slurp of ramen noodles, and you can sneak in veggies without complaints. Lastly, this ramen is both satisfying and light, meaning you won’t need a post-dinner nap. If you’re a fan of quick, wholesome meals, check out Quick Southwest Chicken Salad or Garlic Chicken Lo Mein for more weeknight winners.

Ingredients Needed to Make 20 Minute Chicken Ramen

For the Ramen:

• 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 to Make 20 Minute Chicken Ramen – Step by Step

If you’ve got 20 minutes and a craving for something warm, flavorful, and soul-soothing, this Step by Step 20 Minute Chicken Ramen guide will walk you through exactly how to make a restaurant-quality ramen bowl right at home. It’s quick, beginner-friendly, and totally customizable. Let’s get cooking—apron optional, enthusiasm required.

Step 1: Prepare and Slice the Chicken

The secret to a fast and flavorful ramen starts before you even hit the stove. Begin by slicing your chicken breast thinly—think stir-fry thin. The thinner your slices, the faster they cook and the more tender they’ll be. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture (this helps them brown beautifully instead of steaming).

Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. If you’d like a flavor twist, marinate your chicken for a few minutes in a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil. It gives your ramen that extra layer of umami richness that makes people think you’ve been cooking all day. For more quick prep ideas like this, check out the flavorful Garlic Chicken Lo Mein, another reader-favorite speedy dinner.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken for Deep Flavor

Heat your sesame oil in a medium pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering (you’ll know because it’ll release that nutty, toasted aroma that makes your kitchen smell like a Japanese restaurant), add your chicken slices in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan—let the chicken breathe. Sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. You’ll notice the bottom of your pot collecting little brown bits—those are flavor treasures, so don’t scrape them away. They’ll enrich your broth later. This Step by Step process of browning first creates depth and that signature ramen warmth.

Step 3: Build the Broth Base

Once the chicken is golden and cooked, it’s time to bring in the magic—your broth. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom gently to loosen up those caramelized bits from the chicken. This deglazing step adds a deep, savory tone that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Bring it to a gentle boil. If you have a few extra minutes, you can add a teaspoon of grated ginger or a clove of minced garlic for extra fragrance. For a comforting broth variation, you might enjoy our Homemade Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup, which uses the same technique to infuse layers of flavor without much effort.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

Now it’s time for the fun part—noodles! Drop in your instant ramen noodles (discard the flavor packet; you don’t need it here) and let them cook directly in the broth. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking. Most ramen noodles take just 3–4 minutes to soften, and you’ll know they’re ready when they’re springy but still have a slight bite. The beauty of this Step by Step 20 Minute Chicken Ramen process is that everything cooks in one pot—no extra dishes, no drama.

If you’d prefer a heartier version or want to cut back on sodium, check out Healthy Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup—it’s another one-pot wonder that’s as cozy as this ramen.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables and Soy Sauce

When your noodles are nearly done, toss in your cup of fresh vegetables—spinach, bok choy, or any greens you have on hand. Add a tablespoon of soy sauce and stir it in. Let everything simmer for about 2 minutes. The vegetables should wilt slightly but still keep their bright color and crunch. This step not only adds nutrients but also a fresh pop of texture that balances the rich broth. If you want to go for a protein-packed version, a handful of edamame or some boiled egg halves make a delicious addition. For more high-protein inspiration, see our High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken—it’s another quick, satisfying dinner with similar flavors.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, give your broth a quick taste test. Need a little more salt? Add a pinch. Want it richer? Another drizzle of soy sauce or a touch of sesame oil does the trick. Like a spicy kick? A few drops of chili oil or a spoonful of sriracha can totally transform the flavor. This is your chance to customize—ramen should always reflect your personal taste. Don’t be afraid to tweak it until it’s perfect for you.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Now for the best part—serving your masterpiece. Ladle the ramen into large bowls, making sure each one gets an equal share of chicken, noodles, and vegetables. Top with chopped green onions for a little freshness and color. Want to go the extra mile? Add a soft-boiled egg, sprinkle sesame seeds, or even a touch of chili flakes. Every garnish adds its own charm. For side dish ideas that pair beautifully, try a light salad like our Quick Southwest Chicken Salad or a batch of crispy dumplings.

This Step by Step 20 Minute Chicken Ramen process might sound simple, but the results are incredibly rewarding. You’ve just built a restaurant-quality bowl in your own kitchen—no takeout necessary. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and vibrant greens, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or when you just need a warm hug in food form.

For more comforting bowls and noodle recipes, you can explore similar favorites like Spicy Ramen with Chicken Katsu or Slow Cooker Ramen Noodles. They’re just as cozy, just as flavorful, and guaranteed to keep your dinner game strong—all without spending hours in the kitchen.

What to Serve with 20 Minute Chicken Ramen

Ramen is a meal on its own, but if you want to turn it into a feast, pair it with a light side. Try crisp cucumber salad, pan-fried dumplings, or even a simple boiled egg sprinkled with sesame seeds. For a fresh, bright pairing, serve with Easy Greek Lemon Rice or a small bowl of Miso Peanut Ramen Bowls. A little contrast in texture and flavor turns this quick meal into something that feels restaurant-worthy.

Key Tips for Making 20 Minute Chicken Ramen

1. Slice your chicken thin—it cooks faster and stays tender.
2. Use a good-quality broth for deeper flavor. If you’ve got homemade stock, even better!
3. Don’t overcook the noodles. They keep soaking up broth, so aim for slightly firm.
4. Add veggies at the end so they stay bright and crisp.
5. Make it your own—throw in mushrooms, corn, or even a dash of miso paste for an umami upgrade.

Storage and Reheating Tips for 20 Minute Chicken Ramen

If you somehow end up with leftovers (unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind, the noodles will continue to absorb broth, so you might want to store them separately if you plan ahead. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen things up. Warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming. Pro tip: freshen it up with a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of green onions before serving.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead? Absolutely! It’s a smart shortcut that cuts your cook time even further.
Can I make it vegetarian? Yes—just swap the chicken broth for veggie broth and use tofu or mushrooms.
What’s the best noodle type for ramen? Instant noodles are perfect for speed, but if you have fresh ramen, go for it!
How do I make it spicy? Add chili oil, sriracha, or red pepper flakes right into the broth.

Final Thoughts

20 Minute Chicken Ramen proves that fast food doesn’t have to mean unhealthy or boring. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you get a comforting, wholesome, and downright delicious meal that rivals takeout any night of the week. It’s recipes like this that remind us good food doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to be made with heart. For more quick dinner inspiration, take a peek at Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice or our cozy Homemade Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup.

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