Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then this Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen is just what you need! Picture this: ultra-crispy chicken katsu strips served over rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. It’s a meal that brings comfort and joy to the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this ramen will surely become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to prepare. You’ll find yourself wanting to make it again and again, not just for the deliciousness but also for the smiles it brings to everyone who shares it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just about 80 minutes, you can have this delightful dish ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves ramen, and the crispy chicken will be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make Ahead: The broth can be prepared in advance and stored, making dinner even easier on busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: Each bite is bursting with savory goodness—from the tender chicken to the rich broth.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust heat levels to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything you need for our Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen!

For the Chicken Katsu

• 4 Chicken Breast Cutlets (2 breasts halved horizontally, pounded to ½” thick)
• 2 Cups Panko Breadcrumbs
• 3 Tablespoons Sesame Seeds
• 1 Pinch Kosher Salt (Plus more to taste)
• 3 – 4 Cups Frying Oil (Peanut, Canola, Vegetable, etc.)

For the Broth

• 2 Tablespoons Neutral Cooking Oil (Olive, Avocado, Canola, etc.)
• 1 Shallot (Finely Minced)
• 5 Cloves Garlic (Finely Minced)
• 2 Inch Knob of Ginger (Grated)
• 4 oz Mushrooms (Thinly Sliced)
• ⅛ Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
• ¼ Cup Soy Sauce
• 1 ½ – 2 Teaspoon Sriracha or Gochujang
• 2 Quarts Low Sodium Chicken Stock
• ½ Cup Heavy Cream

For the Noodles and Toppings

• 8 oz Dry Ramen Noodles (Approx. 4 individual ramen noodle bricks)
• 2 Cups Bok Choy (Rough Chopped)
• ¼ Cup Miso Paste (Red or White)
• ¼ Teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil
• Kosher Salt (To Taste)
• Black Pepper (To Taste)
• 4 Soft Boiled Eggs
• Nori Sheets
• Green Onions (Thinly Sliced)
• Sesame Seeds
• More Sriracha or Gochujang

Variations

One of the best things about this Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using turkey cutlets or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the noodles: Use udon or soba noodles if you want a different texture.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to add more sriracha or switch it out for your favorite hot sauce!

How to Make Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Katsu

Start by coating each chicken cutlet in salt before dipping them into flour. Then cover them in panko breadcrumbs mixed with sesame seeds. This gives them that irresistible crunch! Fry them until golden brown in hot oil—trust me; this step is crucial for getting that perfect crispy texture.

Step 2: Make the Broth

In a large pot, heat neutral cooking oil over medium heat. Add shallots, garlic, ginger, and mushrooms. Sauté until they soften and release their flavors—this will create a fragrant base for your broth. Next, stir in crushed red pepper flakes and soy sauce before adding low sodium chicken stock and heavy cream. Allow this mixture to simmer so all those wonderful flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While the broth simmers away happily on the stove, cook your ramen noodles according to package instructions. This step is super quick! Once they’re done, drain them and set aside—don’t forget to save some noodle water; it can help adjust your broth if needed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Ramen Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Divide your cooked noodles among bowls and ladle hot broth over them generously. Top with crispy chicken katsu strips, chopped bok choy, soft boiled eggs cut in half, nori sheets, green onions, sesame seeds, and an extra drizzle of sriracha if you’re feeling spicy!

Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen

Creating the perfect bowl of Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen is all about attention to detail and personal touches!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken can significantly elevate your ramen’s flavor, making it more aromatic and delicious.
• Double Fry the Chicken: For extra crispy chicken katsu, consider double frying the chicken cutlets. This technique helps achieve a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the broth.
• Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of Sriracha or Gochujang according to your heat preference. It allows you to customize the dish to suit your taste buds!
• Experiment with Broth: Feel free to add additional flavors to your broth, such as miso or different mushrooms. These ingredients can enhance the umami profile of your ramen.
• Perfect Your Soft Boiled Eggs: For perfectly cooked soft-boiled eggs, simmer them for exactly 6-7 minutes and then plunge them into ice water immediately. This technique creates that luscious, jammy yolk we all love.

How to Serve Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen

Serving this hearty bowl of Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen can be as creative as it is delicious! Here are some simple ideas to make your presentation inviting and appetizing.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: A sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens up your ramen.
• Nori Sheets: Adding strips of nori not only gives an authentic touch but also imparts a wonderful oceanic flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: A handful of toasted sesame seeds provides a nutty crunch that enhances both texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Edamame: Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt make for a healthy and fun finger food that pairs well with ramen.
• Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): These tangy pickles offer a delightful contrast to the rich noodles and broth, cleansing your palate between bites.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a crisp, light element to your meal, balancing out the savory flavors.
• Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables provide an excellent crunchy side that complements the soft textures in your ramen bowl.

Enjoy crafting your Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen experience! Each component works together to create a warm bowl full of comfort—a dish truly worth savoring on those chilly evenings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. By preparing components in advance, you can save time while still indulging in this delightful dish!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken katsu, broth, and noodles in separate airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure all components are cooled.
• Wrap the chicken katsu tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze the broth and noodles separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen components overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm the broth on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.
• Reheat the chicken katsu in a toaster oven or air fryer until crispy again.
• Cook the noodles according to package instructions before combining everything.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen!

Can I make Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen without eggs?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the soft-boiled eggs or replace them with a vegan alternative like marinated tofu for added protein.

What can I substitute for chicken stock in Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen?

You can use vegetable stock for a lighter option, which will still provide a flavorful base for your ramen without losing its delicious essence.

How do I make my Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen spicier?

To increase the heat, simply add more Sriracha or Gochujang to your ramen broth. You can also sprinkle extra crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or even shrimp if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.

How long does it take to prepare Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen?

The total time is approximately 80 minutes, which includes 20 minutes of prep and 60 minutes of cooking. It’s a worthwhile endeavor for such a comforting meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Savory Chicken Katsu Ramen warms your heart as much as it does mine! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy during chilly evenings. Enjoy making this dish, experimenting with ingredients, and sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!