Ramen Noodle Stir Fry

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a steaming bowl of ramen. But what if you took those delightful noodles and transformed them into a savory stir fry? This Ramen Noodle Stir Fry is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients. With the perfect balance of crunchy vegetables and tender chicken, this dish is a quick weeknight meal that the entire family will love. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use those instant ramen packets you may have stashed away in your pantry.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Ramen Noodle Stir Fry is a game changer for busy weeknights. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a lifesaver for those “what’s for dinner?” moments. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. The vibrant colors from the vegetables and the savory aroma from the garlic and soy sauce will have everyone gathering around the table in no time. Whether you’re a ramen lover or a stir fry enthusiast, this recipe will become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 packets instant ramen (any flavor of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
• ½ yellow onion, peeled and thinly sliced
• 5 ounces chicken, chopped into bite-size pieces
• 1 small carrot, peeled and sliced on the diagonal
• 2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces (separate the white part from the green part)
• 2 cups green cabbage, chopped into 1-inch pieces

How To Make Ramen Noodle Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Ramen

Start by cooking the instant ramen according to the package instructions, but omit the flavor packet for now. Once the noodles are cooked, drain and set them aside. A tip here is to rinse the noodles under cold water briefly to prevent them from becoming sticky while you prepare the stir fry.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be just golden.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chopped chicken to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.

Step 4: Stir in the Vegetables

Next, introduce the sliced onion, carrot, and chopped cabbage into the skillet. Stir well and sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp. The colors should be vibrant, and the aroma will be incredible!

Step 5: Combine and Flavor

Now, add the cooked ramen noodles back into the skillet. Use tongs or a spatula to combine everything gently. Add your chosen flavor packets from the ramen and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated, and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Finish with Green Onions

Finally, sprinkle the green parts of the green onions over the stir fry as a fresh garnish. Give everything one last toss to combine and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

• Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu, shrimp, or your favorite protein for a different taste.
• Try adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for an extra depth of flavor.
• Customize the vegetables based on what you have available—bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli would work beautifully!
• If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or some Sriracha during cooking for a spicy kick.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the chicken for beef, beef, or a vegetarian protein source such as tempeh.
• For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable ramen flavor.
• Add some eggs for a richer flavor: scramble in an egg before adding the noodles.
• Incorporate additional sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin for a sweet and savory twist.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftovers, don’t worry! Ramen Noodle Stir Fry keeps well in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to help loosen the noodles and prevent them from becoming too dry. You can use a microwave or a stovetop for reheating—just ensure it’s thoroughly warmed through before serving again.

FAQ

Can I use whole grain ramen noodles instead of instant ramen?

Yes, you can definitely use whole grain ramen noodles for a healthier option! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the instant ramen with a gluten-free alternative or rice noodles, and ensure you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

What can I serve with Ramen Noodle Stir Fry?

This stir fry is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside a simple salad or some steamed dumplings for a delicious and varied spread.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable ramen flavor. You can also use additional vegetables to create a satisfying vegan meal.

Conclusion

This Ramen Noodle Stir Fry is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile, allowing you to use what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a fun way to elevate instant ramen to something truly delicious. Whether you are serving it up for a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to make it your very own! So grab those ramen packets and get cooking; a flavorful meal awaits!