Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Ramen and Sauce
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Garnishes (Optional)
- Chopped green onions
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly caramelized, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and make sauce base: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 3 cups chicken broth, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add peanut butter: Stir in 3 tablespoons of peanut butter until fully melted and blended with the broth, creating a creamy, spicy sauce.
- Cook ramen noodles: Add the ramen noodles directly into the simmering sauce and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Combine chicken and noodles: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve and garnish: Divide the spicy peanut butter ramen into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions, crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges as desired for added freshness and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast, tofu, or shrimp for variation.
- Adjust the chili garlic sauce amount to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- Use natural peanut butter for a healthier option and richer flavor.
- Adding fresh vegetables like spinach or bok choy can increase the nutritional value and add crunch.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion