Chili Chicken Ramen from Wagamama features tender chicken pieces simmered in a spicy chili broth, combined with chewy ramen noodles, fresh vegetables, and a sprinkle of scallions, delivering a flavorful and comforting bowl with a vibrant, aromatic appearance.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Skillet or frying pan
- Strainer or colander
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
- Tongs
- Soup bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (such as sambal oelek)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 packs ramen noodles
- 1 red chili, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts
- 2 baby bok choy, halved
- 2 scallions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
Fresh ingredients like ginger, garlic, and red chili are essential to achieving the authentic spicy flavor of Wagamama's Chili Chicken Ramen. Using two packs of ramen noodles ensures the perfect chewy texture that complements the tender chicken breasts simmered in the chili broth. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, mirin, and sake enhances the broth's depth and aromatic profile. When preparing, make sure to julienne the carrot thinly and slice the baby bok choy evenly to retain their crunch and freshness. Your homemade Chili Chicken Ramen from the Wagamama copycat menu will deliver a vibrant, flavorful, and comforting meal similar to the original.
Instructions
- Prepare all vegetables: mince garlic and ginger, julienne carrot, slice chili and scallions, halve bok choy, chop cilantro.
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken strips until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and chili paste. Cook until fragrant.
- Add soy sauce, mirin, and sake; mix well.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in sesame oil.
- Add baby bok choy and carrot; cook until tender but crisp.
- In a large pot, boil water and cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain noodles using a strainer or colander.
- Divide noodles among soup bowls.
- Top noodles with cooked chicken.
- Ladle the hot broth with vegetables over the chicken and noodles.
- Garnish with bean sprouts, scallions, fresh cilantro leaves, and extra sliced red chili.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chili Chicken Ramen from Wagamama copycat menu can be easily adapted if you don't have mirin or sake; substitute with a splash of dry sherry or a mix of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar to maintain the balance of sweet and umami flavors. If fresh bok choy isn't available, napa cabbage or spinach work well as alternatives, offering similar texture and freshness. When using store-bought chili paste like sambal oelek, adjust the amount according to your preferred spice level since brands vary in heat intensity. Ramen noodles can be swapped with udon or soba noodles for a different but still satisfying texture in your bowl. Make sure to drain the noodles well using a strainer to avoid a watery broth and keep your soup rich and flavorful for your perfect serving.
Tips
Ensure the chicken is sliced evenly into thin strips for quick, consistent cooking and better texture in your Chili Chicken Ramen. Avoid overcooking the ramen noodles by following package instructions closely, then rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming mushy. When adding baby bok choy and carrots to the broth, cook them just until tender-crisp to maintain their freshness and vibrant color. Remember to taste the broth before serving and adjust seasoning or chili paste to match your desired level of spiciness and flavor intensity.
Nutritions
Chili Chicken Ramen from Wagamama provides a balanced mix of protein from tender chicken breasts and complex carbohydrates from ramen noodles, supporting muscle repair and sustained energy. The spicy chili paste is rich in capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and promote fat burning. Fresh vegetables like baby bok choy, carrots, and bean sprouts contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber to aid digestion and enhance immune function. Your meal also includes antioxidants from garlic, ginger, and cilantro, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Storage
Store leftover Chili Chicken Ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Separate the broth from the noodles to prevent sogginess and reheat gently on the stove using a saucepan, ensuring the chicken and vegetables stay tender. Your stored ramen will retain its vibrant taste when you reassemble and heat it just before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance the chili chicken ramen by substituting chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful texture. Try using homemade chili paste or mix in a teaspoon of gochujang to deepen the spicy profile. Swap mirin and sake with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar to create a tangier broth. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with firm tofu and vegetable broth while keeping the same aromatic spices and vegetables.
Allergies
Chili Chicken Ramen contains common allergens like soy from the soy sauce and potential sesame allergens from the sesame oil. Individuals with poultry allergies should avoid the chicken breast, and those sensitive to garlic or ginger may experience reactions due to their inclusion in the broth. You should always check labels and consult with restaurant staff if you have any specific food allergies before consuming this dish.
Why this recipe?
Wagamama's Chili Chicken Ramen is celebrated for its bold fusion of spicy, savory flavors combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles, creating an irresistible meal experience. You'll appreciate the balance of heat and umami, elevated by fresh garnishes that make each bite flavorful and satisfying. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the spice level and ingredients to match your taste while enjoying a restaurant-quality dish at home. This dish consistently ranks high among fans for its comforting yet exciting flavor profile, making it a must-try recipe.