Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen

Warmth and Comfort in Every Bowl

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Preparation Phase & Tools To Use

Tools Needed:

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork or tongs (for shredding chicken)
• Large pot (for cooking ramen noodles)

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Ingredients & Their Roles

• 2 large chicken breasts – The protein source, becoming tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
• 4 cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the ramen broth, adding depth and richness.
• 2 cups water – Adjusts the broth’s intensity and volume.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce – Adds umami and a salty flavor, enhancing the broth.
• 1 tbsp mirin (or rice vinegar) – Adds a slight sweetness and acidity, balancing the broth’s flavors.
• 2 tsp sesame oil – Infuses the broth with a nutty aroma and taste.
• 1 tsp ginger, minced – Adds a warm, spicy kick.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Provides a pungent, aromatic base.
• 4 packs ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded) – The staple of the dish, offering a comforting texture.
• 2 green onions, sliced – Adds color and a fresh, sharp flavor.
• 2 eggs (optional) – Offers a rich, creamy texture when soft-boiled and added to the ramen.
• Mushrooms, bok choy, or spinach (optional) – Adds nutrition and variety to the ramen.
• Chili flakes, sesame seeds, and additional sliced green onions for garnish – Enhances the visual appeal and adds flavor layers.

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Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In your slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Stir to mix.
2. Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
3. Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Shred it with forks or tongs, then return it to the pot.
4. Add Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker. Let them cook until just tender.
5. Prepare Toppings: If using, boil the eggs for 7 minutes for a soft-boiled consistency. Cool them in ice water, then peel and halve. Prepare any other desired toppings.
6. Assemble and Serve: Ladle the broth and noodles into bowls. Top with shredded chicken, soft-boiled eggs, green onions, and your choice of vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chili flakes.

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Timing & Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours and 15 minutes on low; 3 hours and 15 minutes on high
• Servings: 4 servings
• Kcal: Approximately 400 kcal per serving (varies based on toppings)

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Nutritional Information & Health Benefits:

This Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen is a comforting and balanced meal, offering a good source of protein from the chicken, complex carbs from the noodles, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from optional vegetable toppings. The broth can aid in hydration and digestion.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

• Overcooking the noodles: Add them late in the cooking process to avoid mushiness.
• Overloading the slow cooker: Keep an eye on the liquid level, ensuring there’s enough room for the noodles to expand.
• Neglecting the garnish: Fresh toppings add crucial flavor and texture contrasts, elevating the dish.
• Using the noodle seasoning packets: These are often high in sodium and MSG. Stick to the recipe’s seasonings for healthier and more balanced flavors.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm, savory, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. This recipe simplifies the ramen-making process without sacrificing depth of flavor, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels. Enjoy the process of making this soul-satisfying bowl of ramen, and relish the delicious results!