This Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe offers a delightful blend of crispy chicken, flavorful broth, and tender noodles. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests, this dish combines the heartiness of ramen with the crunch of katsu. It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal in under an hour.
- Crispy Chicken Delight: The pan-fried chicken adds a satisfying crunch that complements the soft noodles perfectly.
- Customizable Toppings: Top your ramen with various ingredients like scallions, fried onions, or Sriracha for extra flavor.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich and savory, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a warming meal.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve in stylish bowls for a restaurant-quality dining experience at home.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your Chicken Katsu Ramen effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 6-quart sauce pot
- Two shallow bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for frying the chicken cutlets evenly and achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
- 6-quart sauce pot: Provides ample space to cook the broth and noodles while preventing overflow.
- Two shallow bowls: Used for breading chicken efficiently without making a mess.
Ingredients
This easy Chicken Katsu Ramen recipe features a rich noodle soup loaded with crispy pan-fried chicken pieces and your favorite toppings.
For the Chicken Katsu
- 1 ¼ pounds chicken cutlets (4 pcs from breast or thigh)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- Fry oil
For the Ramen Broth
- 4 slices Turkey Turkey Bacon (thick cut)
- 2 shallots (peeled and sliced thin)
- 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
- 3 packets instant chicken ramen noodles
- 15 ounces unsweetened coconut milk
- 5 tablespoons white miso paste
- 10 cups water
For Garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Ramen eggs
- Fried onions
- Scallions
- Furikake
- Nori sheets
- Sriracha
- Gochujang sauce
How to Make Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen
Set a large skillet and a large 6-quart sauce pot on the stovetop. Prepare two shallow bowls for breading the chicken.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Crack the egg into one bowl and whisk it with a fork. Place the chicken cutlets into the egg mixture, coating them thoroughly. Let them rest in the egg mixture while you prepare the breading.
Step 3: Mix Breading Ingredients
In the second bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying
Pour about an inch of cooking oil into the skillet over medium heat.
Step 5: Prep Ramen Ingredients
Slice Turkey Turkey Bacon and shallots into thin strips. Mince garlic cloves and grate fresh ginger.
Step 6: Cook Bacon and Aromatics
In the sauce pot, add Turkey Turkey Bacon. Stir until it’s browned completely. Add shallots, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until they soften.
Step 7: Coat Chicken in Breading
Take each egg-coated chicken cutlet one at a time and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is coated well before placing it into hot oil in the skillet.
Step 8: Fry Chicken Cutlets
Fry each cutlet for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. Remove them from oil once done and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 9: Prepare Broth
Once onions are soft in the pot, pour in coconut milk, miso paste, and add water. Incorporate all three ramen seasoning packets into this broth mix. Stir well while bringing it to a boil.
Step 10: Cook Ramen Noodles
Once boiling, lower heat to simmer before adding instant ramen noodles. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until noodles are soft. Stir in fresh spinach leaves during this time.
Step 11: Slice Chicken Katsu
Transfer fried chicken cutlets onto a cutting board. Cut each piece into thin strips suitable for serving on top of ramen.
Step 12: Assemble Your Bowl
Ladle ramen soup into bowls first then top with sliced chicken Katsu. Finish off with any garnishes you prefer for added flavor!
How to Serve Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe
Serving Chicken Katsu Ramen is a delightful experience, as the rich flavors and textures come together beautifully. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the ramen in large bowls for a traditional look.
- Ensure the chicken katsu strips are arranged on top for visual appeal.
Garnish It Up
- Add fresh scallions and fried onions for an extra crunch.
- A sprinkle of furikake adds umami flavor and a pop of color.
Spice It Up
- Offer Sriracha or gochujang sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- Allow guests to customize their heat level according to their taste.
Pair with Ramen Eggs
- Soft-boiled ramen eggs can enhance the dish’s richness.
- Their creamy yolk complements the savory broth perfectly.
Enjoy with Nori Sheets
- Serve crispy nori sheets as a side for an added texture.
- Guests can crumble them over their ramen for a unique twist.
How to Perfect Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe
To make your Chicken Katsu Ramen even better, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh chicken cutlets for better flavor and texture.
- Use Homemade Broth: If time allows, make your own chicken broth instead of using instant seasoning packets for richer taste.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with toppings like corn, mushrooms, or bamboo shoots to personalize each bowl.
- Adjust Salt Levels: Be mindful of salt from miso paste and ramen seasoning; taste before adding extra salt.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough to get that perfect crispy texture on your chicken katsu.
- Let Noodles Soak: Allow noodles to sit briefly in the broth after cooking so they absorb more flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Katsu Ramen enhances the meal experience. Here are some recommendations:
- Edamame – Lightly salted steamed edamame beans offer a healthy and satisfying snack.
- Seaweed Salad – A refreshing seaweed salad adds texture and introduces marine flavors that complement ramen nicely.
- Gyoza – Pan-fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables provide an extra savory element to your meal.
- Kimchi – The spicy fermented cabbage offers a tangy contrast that pairs well with the rich ramen broth.
- Pickled Vegetables – Crunchy pickled veggies can cleanse the palate between bites of rich ramen.
- Tempura Vegetables – Lightly battered and fried vegetables add a delightful crunch and can be enjoyed alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Katsu Ramen, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect bowl of ramen.
- Skipping the egg wash: Not coating the chicken cutlets in egg can lead to uneven breading. Always ensure the chicken is well-coated before breading for a crispy texture.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken cutlets in the skillet at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become golden brown.
- Not seasoning the broth: A bland broth will ruin your ramen experience. Make sure to use all seasoning packets and taste as you go, adjusting flavors with soy sauce or additional miso if needed.
- Using stale toppings: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Always use fresh spinach, scallions, and any other toppings for the best flavor and presentation.
- Cooking noodles too long: Overcooked ramen noodles become mushy and unappetizing. Follow package instructions closely and add them to the broth only when it’s boiling.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Katsu Ramen in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe
- Place cooled Chicken Katsu Ramen in freezer-safe containers.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ramen in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer ramen to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour ramen into a pot over medium heat. Stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Katsu Ramen?
Chicken Katsu Ramen is a delicious noodle soup featuring crispy fried chicken cutlets served over flavorful ramen noodles in a rich broth.
How do I make Chicken Katsu Ramen from scratch?
To make Chicken Katsu Ramen from scratch, follow the recipe above, ensuring you prepare both the katsu and the ramen broth with fresh ingredients.
Can I customize my Chicken Katsu Ramen?
Absolutely! You can customize your Chicken Katsu Ramen with different proteins like tofu or pork, or add toppings like corn, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The total time for this Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe is about 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free ramen noodles instead of traditional ones to make a gluten-free version of Chicken Katsu Ramen.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love. With its crispy chicken and savory broth, it’s perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings. Give it a try and enjoy creating your own unique bowl of comfort!
Chicken Katsu Ramen
Chicken Katsu Ramen is a comforting fusion of crispy fried chicken and savory noodle soup, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests. This easy-to-make dish combines the crunch of katsu with rich broth and tender noodles, making it a delightful meal that can be customized to your taste. With a blend of fresh ingredients and optional toppings like scallions or Sriracha, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a restaurant-quality experience at home with this delicious bowl of ramen that’s both satisfying and impressive.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds chicken cutlets
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- 1 large egg
- 4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon
- 2 shallots
- 3–4 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
- 3 packets instant chicken ramen noodles
- 15 ounces unsweetened coconut milk
- 5 tablespoons white miso paste
- Fresh spinach leaves
Instructions
- Prepare two shallow bowls: one for the egg wash (whisked egg) and another for the breadcrumb mixture (panko, sesame seeds, salt).
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Bread chicken cutlets by dipping them in the egg wash, then coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry the breaded chicken cutlets until golden brown on both sides; set aside on paper towels.
- In a large pot, cook chopped turkey bacon until browned, then add sliced shallots, minced garlic, and grated ginger until softened.
- Stir in coconut milk, miso paste, water, and seasoning packets; bring to a boil.
- Add ramen noodles and fresh spinach; cook until noodles are tender.
- Slice the fried chicken katsu into thin strips and serve over ramen with desired garnishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 450g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize your toppings with items like nori sheets or fried onions. For a spicier kick, serve Sriracha or gochujang on the side. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
