Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the comforting warmth of this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup, perfect for busy weeknights.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is a delightful twist on the classic ramen. With tender chicken, flavorful broth, and an array of fresh toppings, it’s a meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with a delicious outcome
- Rich, savory broth that warms the soul
- Customizable with your favorite ramen toppings
A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
There's something inherently soothing about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s a hearty chicken ramen-inspired creation. This recipe captures the essence of traditional ramen while simplifying the process through the use of a slow cooker. As the ingredients meld together over hours of cooking, the flavors deepen, resulting in a rich broth that is both satisfying and invigorating.
With just a few simple ingredients, this soup is a great way to use pantry staples while providing a fresh and nutritious meal. The tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and zesty ginger create a beautiful harmony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Plus, the addition of fresh vegetables not only enhances the taste but also boosts the nutritional profile of your meal.
Easy Meal Prep for Busy Nights
One of the greatest advantages of this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is the convenience it offers. Ideal for busy weeknights, you can prepare everything in just a few minutes, set your slow cooker, and go about your day. When you return home, a delicious meal awaits without any elaborate cooking or cleanup.
Make this soup your go-to recipe for meal prep; simply double the ingredients and you’ll have enough for leftovers. It stores wonderfully in the refrigerator, and you can easily reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner. Additionally, the soup's flavors often improve after sitting, making it even tastier the next day!
Customizable Ramen Experience
One of the joys of ramen is its versatility. This soup serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer spicy, tangy, or umami flavors, you can easily adapt the ingredients to fit your cravings. Consider adding a splash of chili oil for heat or lime juice for brightness.
Topping your ramen is where you can truly make this dish your own. From soft-boiled eggs to vibrant cilantro, each topping adds a new layer of flavor and texture. Don't hesitate to experiment with seasonal vegetables, different types of mushrooms, or even protein alternatives to make this recipe unique to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, chopped
For Serving
- 4 packs of ramen noodles
- Soft-boiled eggs
- Sliced radishes
- Fresh cilantro
Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Soup
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to combine.
Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Add Vegetables
About 30 minutes before serving, add the bok choy and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Stir gently and cover again.
Prepare Ramen
Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve
Shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Divide the ramen noodles into bowls, ladle the soup over the noodles, and top with green onions, soft-boiled eggs, radishes, and cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious and hearty ramen-inspired soup!
Storage Tips
After enjoying your delicious soup, ensure you store any leftovers properly. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or broth to maintain the soup's original consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Benefits
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritional punch. Chicken thighs provide a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The inclusion of bok choy adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium.
Mushrooms contribute antioxidants that support immune function, while garlic and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with the vibrant toppings, this soup becomes a well-rounded meal that nourishes both body and soul. Enjoying it regularly can contribute to a balanced diet, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may become drier than thighs.
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Experience the comforting warmth of this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup, perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Brittany Shaw
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, chopped
For Serving
- 4 packs of ramen noodles
- Soft-boiled eggs
- Sliced radishes
- Fresh cilantro
How-To Steps
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the bok choy and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Stir gently and cover again.
Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Divide the ramen noodles into bowls, ladle the soup over the noodles, and top with green onions, soft-boiled eggs, radishes, and cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 890mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g