There’s something so comforting about a bowl of slow cooker chicken ramen bubbling away in the kitchen, isn’t there? I mean, who doesn’t love the idea of coming home to a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself? The beauty of this dish is that it’s not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy! Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Trust me, the aroma that fills your home is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl. You’ll love how the tender chicken and fresh veggies come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken ramen! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken thighs (boneless and skinless work best)
- 4 cups chicken broth (for that rich, savory base)
- 2 cups water (to balance the flavors)
- 2 packs ramen noodles (you can use any flavor, but discard the seasoning packets)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (I love shiitake or button mushrooms)
- 1 cup chopped bok choy (for a fresh crunch)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1 inch ginger, grated (it adds a lovely warmth)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for that umami kick)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for a nutty aroma)
- 2 green onions, sliced (to garnish and add a pop of color)
Feel free to get creative with additional veggies if you want—carrots or spinach can be great additions! Just be sure to keep your measurements in mind to maintain that delicious balance.
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen
Getting this slow cooker chicken ramen ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring a delicious bowl of goodness in no time:
- Start by placing the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re spread out evenly.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and water. This is where the magic begins! The broth will give your ramen that rich flavor we all crave.
- Add in the sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, and grated ginger. These ingredients will infuse your dish with warmth and depth.
- Now, drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil. This is the secret to that umami kick that’ll keep you coming back for more!
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. Go ahead and enjoy your day while it does all the work!
- Once the time’s up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily if it’s cooked just right!
- Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker. This is where it gets even better!
- Now, stir in the chopped bok choy and ramen noodles. Make sure they’re well mixed in, so every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the noodles are tender and the bok choy is just wilted. You’ll want to keep an eye on it!
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions for that fresh, vibrant touch. Enjoy every flavorful spoonful!
And there you have it! A hearty and comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken ramen that’s ready to warm your soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
- The flavors are out of this world, with tender chicken and savory broth that warms you from the inside out.
- Healthy ingredients like fresh vegetables and lean protein make it a nourishing option for any day of the week.
- This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- It’s versatile too! You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or add a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
- The leftovers are fantastic, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.
Equipment Needed
To whip up this delicious slow cooker chicken ramen, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Don’t worry, they’re all pretty straightforward!
- Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show! It does all the heavy lifting while you relax. Any size works, but a 6-quart one is perfect for this recipe.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to getting the flavors just right, especially for the broth and seasonings.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy board will make chopping your veggies quick and easy. Plus, it keeps your counters safe!
- Chef’s Knife: A good knife ensures smooth slicing of mushrooms, bok choy, and garlic. Trust me, it makes a world of difference.
- Forks: You’ll need two for shredding the chicken after it’s cooked. It’s surprisingly satisfying to pull apart that tender meat!
- Serving Bowl: Once your ramen is ready, a big bowl will make serving easy and let everyone dig in comfortably.
Gather these tools, and you’ll be all set to create a heartwarming bowl of ramen that’ll impress everyone at the table!
Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen
To make sure your slow cooker chicken ramen turns out absolutely delicious every time, here are my top tips that I’ve learned through trial and error. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can save you from common pitfalls!
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: I know it’s tempting to peek, but resist the urge! Keep the lid on during cooking to maintain the heat and moisture, which helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Use Quality Broth: The broth is the backbone of your ramen, so opt for a good-quality chicken broth. Homemade is amazing if you have it, but store-bought works just fine too.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce and sesame oil to match your flavor preferences. Start with less and add more, tasting as you go!
- Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to throw in other veggies! Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas can add extra color and crunch. Just chop them thinly and toss them in at the same time as the bok choy.
- Thicken the Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It’ll give your ramen a luxurious texture!
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, let the ramen cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain freshness and flavor for your next meal.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating, do it on low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. This keeps the noodles from getting mushy while ensuring everything heats evenly.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of slow cooker chicken ramen. Enjoy the process and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen
One of the best things about this slow cooker chicken ramen is its versatility! You can easily mix things up and tailor it to your taste buds or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili paste when you mix in the soy sauce. It’ll give your ramen a deliciously fiery twist!
- Different Proteins: While chicken thighs are fantastic, you can swap them out for shredded pork or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, or baby spinach can add vibrant colors and flavors. Toss them in at the same time as the bok choy for the best results!
- Coconut Curry Ramen: For a unique twist, add a can of coconut milk and a tablespoon of curry paste to the broth. It creates a creamy, aromatic bowl of ramen that’s simply divine!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can elevate your ramen to new heights. Add them right before serving for a burst of freshness and flavor.
- Udon Noodles: Swap out the ramen noodles for udon noodles if you prefer a chewier texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the noodle type!
These variations not only make the dish exciting but also allow you to play around with flavors and ingredients that you love. So go ahead, mix it up, and create your perfect bowl of slow cooker chicken ramen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover slow cooker chicken ramen properly ensures that you can enjoy it again without sacrificing flavor or texture! Here’s how to do it:
- Cool Down: Allow the ramen to cool completely before transferring it to any storage containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the noodles mushy.
- Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to store your ramen. This keeps it fresh and prevents any unwanted odors from sneaking in from the fridge.
- Refrigeration: Your ramen can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t eat it within that time, consider freezing it instead!
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the ramen. Just make sure to separate the broth and noodles if possible, as this helps maintain their textures. It should last in the freezer for about 2 months.
When it’s time to indulge again, reheating is key:
- Stovetop Method: For the best results, reheat your ramen on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick!
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the ramen in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
Following these tips will help you enjoy your slow cooker chicken ramen just as much the second time around. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
Nutritional Information
When you’re diving into a bowl of my slow cooker chicken ramen, it’s nice to know what you’re savoring! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sugar: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check labels if you’re watching certain nutrients. But regardless, you can feel good about enjoying this hearty dish packed with protein and flavor!
FAQ About Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen
I get a lot of questions about making slow cooker chicken ramen, so I’ve put together some of the most common ones I hear. Hopefully, these answers will help you feel confident and excited to whip up this delicious dish!
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is a great alternative if you prefer it. Just keep in mind that it may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 2.5-hour mark on high or 5 hours on low.
What if I don’t have bok choy?
No worries! You can substitute other leafy greens like spinach or kale. Just add them in toward the end of cooking to keep them vibrant and fresh!
Can I make this ramen vegetarian?
Definitely! Just swap the chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get a hearty and delicious ramen!
How do I store leftovers?
Let your ramen cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for up to 2 months!
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas can add extra flavor and color. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the bok choy!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be tender and easily shred with two forks when it’s done. If it’s not shredding easily, give it more time in the slow cooker!
Is this ramen spicy?
It’s not spicy as written, but if you love heat, feel free to add sriracha or chili paste when mixing in the soy sauce! Adjust to your taste!
Can I use instant ramen noodles?
Sure! Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They cook pretty quickly, so you don’t want them to turn mushy!
Can I double the recipe?
You can, but be mindful of your slow cooker’s capacity. If it’s too full, the cooking time might need adjusting. Just keep an eye on it!
These FAQs cover a lot, but if you have any more questions, feel free to reach out! I’m always here to help you make the best slow cooker chicken ramen possible!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen: 9 Comforting Tips to Try
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty slow cooker chicken ramen recipe that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 packs ramen noodles
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped bok choy
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
- Add chicken broth, water, mushrooms, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Remove chicken and shred it with two forks.
- Add shredded chicken back to the slow cooker.
- Stir in bok choy and ramen noodles.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or spinach.
- You can use chicken breast instead of thighs if preferred.
- Adjust soy sauce according to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: slow cooker chicken ramen, chicken ramen recipe, easy ramen recipe