Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food, beloved for its warmth and simplicity. But what if we could elevate this timeless dish with a fun, flavorful twist? Introducing Chicken Noodle Soup with Ramen – a delicious fusion that combines the heartiness of chicken soup with the satisfying chew of ramen noodles. This recipe isn't just about swapping noodles; it's about creating a richer, more complex flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
What Makes Chicken Noodle Soup with Ramen Different?
The magic lies in the combination of textures and flavors. Traditional chicken noodle soup relies on delicate egg noodles or even homemade pasta. Ramen noodles, on the other hand, offer a unique chewiness and a subtle, savory flavor that complements the broth beautifully. The addition of ramen elevates the soup from a simple comfort food to a more substantial and exciting meal.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup with Ramen: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe is surprisingly easy to adapt to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of ramen noodles, vegetables, and seasonings.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 12 cups water
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces dried ramen noodles (discard the flavor packet)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the broth: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
- Add vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the broth. Simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the broth: Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the ramen: Add the ramen noodles to the soup and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become mushy.
- Add the chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
What Kind of Ramen Noodles Should I Use?
You can experiment with different types of ramen noodles, but stick to those without added flavor packets. The flavor of the broth should shine through, and the ramen noodles simply enhance the texture. Avoid flavored ramen varieties as the additional flavors might clash with the simplicity of the chicken broth. Plain, dried ramen noodles work best.
Can I Use Pre-Made Chicken Broth?
Yes, absolutely! Using pre-made chicken broth can significantly reduce the cooking time. Simply follow the recipe, substituting the homemade broth with 12 cups of your favorite store-bought brand.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with your vegetables! Mushrooms, spinach, green beans, and corn are all excellent additions to this soup. Add them along with the carrots and celery for even more nutritious goodness.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This upgraded Chicken Noodle Soup with Ramen offers a delightful balance of familiar comfort and exciting new textures. Try it today and experience the delicious difference!
