As I wandered through the vibrant aisles of my local Farmers’ Market, the sight of fresh spinach and plump chicken inspired me to recreate a classic favorite: Chicken and Spinach Ramen. This healthy twist on a beloved dish combines wholesome brown rice ramen noodles with tender chicken and nutrient-packed spinach, proving that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal that you can whip up quickly in the Instant Pot, Crockpot, or on the stovetop, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With aromatic hints of ginger, savory bacon, and a splash of red curry paste, every bowl of this ramen is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Ready to dive into a nourishing and satisfying dish? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Chicken and Spinach Ramen Perfect?

Wholesome Comfort: This Chicken and Spinach Ramen delivers both flavor and nutrition, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Quick and Easy: With three versatile cooking methods, including Instant Pot and Crockpot options, this dish suits any busy schedule.

One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to messy dishes; everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup!

Flavor Explosion: The blend of ginger, bacon, and red curry paste adds layers of taste, warming you from the inside out.

Customizable: Tailor this recipe to your taste by swapping proteins or adding your favorite veggies, ensuring it fits perfectly into your meal rotation. If you’re looking for more easy-to-make dinners, check out my Ginger Soy Chicken or Cowboy Butter Chicken!

Chicken and Spinach Ramen Ingredients

• Discover what you need to make this delicious comfort food!

For the Broth

Thick Cut Bacon – Adds flavor and richness; can be omitted for a lighter version or for those avoiding pork.
Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Base for the soup; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian twist.
Tamari or Soy Sauce – Adds savory depth; tamari is gluten-free.
Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors; can be substituted with apple cider vinegar for a different acidity.
Dried Porcini Mushrooms – Infuses richness into the broth; can be replaced with any dried mushroom (e.g., shiitake).

For the Noodles and Veggies

Brown Rice Ramen Noodles – Main carbohydrate source; use gluten-free noodles if necessary.
Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds nutrients and color; kale or bok choy can be substituted for a different texture.
Soft-Boiled Eggs – Offers creamy richness on top; great for garnishing.
Shredded Carrots – Adds a pop of color and sweetness to your dish.
Green Onions – Offers freshness and crunch; feel free to add more for extra flavor.

For Aromatics

Chopped Ginger – Enhances flavor; fresh is preferred but ground ginger (1 tsp) can be used as a substitute.
Garlic (chopped) – Adds aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder (1/2 tsp) if fresh is not available.
Red Curry Paste – Offers heat and complexity; adjust quantity based on your spice preference; use yellow curry paste for milder flavor.
Toasted Sesame Oil – Contributes nuttiness; substitute with a neutral oil if needed but the flavor will differ.

Optional Add-Ons

Acorn Squash – Adds sweetness and can be replaced with butternut squash; can be broiled for extra flavor.
Chili Crisp Sauce – Adds heat and texture; customize according to your taste.

This Chicken and Spinach Ramen is sure to provide a comforting meal that is also quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any home chef!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Step 1: Sauté the Base
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add thick cut bacon and cook it for about 5 minutes until it turns crispy, releasing its delicious fat. Stir in sliced wild or cremini mushrooms and allow them to cook for 2 minutes until they soften. The aroma of bacon and mushrooms will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the Chicken and Spinach Ramen.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in chopped ginger, garlic, and red curry paste, cooking the mixture for an additional minute until fragrant. You’ll notice the vibrant colors come together beautifully. This blend of ingredients adds depth to your broth, elevating your Chicken and Spinach Ramen with a delightful spicy undertone that will tickle your taste buds.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Pour in low sodium chicken broth and add water, tamari, rice vinegar, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, dried porcini mushrooms, and toasted sesame oil. If you’re using acorn squash, toss it in at this stage for extra flavor. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. The intense heat extracts all those wonderful flavors into the broth.

Step 4: Release and Shred
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the steam according to your Instant Pot instructions. Open the lid and shred the chicken using two forks right inside the pot. The chicken should be tender and fall apart easily. This step infuses the broth with even more flavor, making your Chicken and Spinach Ramen irresistible.

Step 5: Add Noodles and Spinach
Add the brown rice ramen noodles and fresh baby spinach to the pot. Stir everything together, then let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the noodles to soften and absorb the savory broth while the spinach wilts, enhancing both the texture and nutritional value of your delicious ramen.

Step 6: Prepare Optional Toppings
If you’re making broiled acorn squash, slice it and brush with honey and your favorite seasonings. Broil the wedges for about 2-3 minutes until they’re crisp and caramelized. This sweet element makes a perfect contrast to the savory ramen and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the steaming Chicken and Spinach Ramen into bowls, topping each with the roasted acorn squash, soft-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions. The vibrant colors and textures will make this bowl not only comforting but visually appealing too. Enjoy your nourishing meal that warms the heart and delights the palate.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Fridge: Store the Chicken and Spinach Ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to revive the flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ramen in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low, stirring occasionally.

Noodle Consideration: If you’re freezing, consider keeping the noodles separate from the broth. This helps maintain their texture; add them just before serving after reheating the soup.

Reheating Tips: When reheating, add additional broth or water as needed, since the ramen can absorb liquid during storage. This will ensure a deliciously soupy experience every time!

Expert Tips for Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Seal It Tight: Ensure the Instant Pot is properly sealed to achieve effective pressure cooking. This prevents any mishaps and ensures a perfect broth.
Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of red curry paste based on your spice tolerance; it’s easy to add more, but harder to dial it back!
Freshness Matters: Opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor in your Chicken and Spinach Ramen, especially with aromatics like garlic and ginger.
Make It Ahead: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Consider making a larger batch to enjoy later or freeze for busy days.
Broth Boost: Don’t shy away from experimenting! Add more vegetables or different proteins to enhance the flavor profile of your ramen.
Ramen Texture: Let the noodles sit in the broth for a few minutes after cooking to soften properly—this step ensures a delightful texture in your dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken and Spinach Ramen are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the broth (bacon, mushrooms, aromatics, and spices) and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply combine all the ingredients in an airtight container, ensuring to refrigerate the chicken separately if it’s raw. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the broth in your Instant Pot or on the stovetop, then add in the ramen noodles and spinach, allowing them to soften for about 5 minutes. This way, you can enjoy a warm, delicious bowl of Chicken and Spinach Ramen with minimal effort, even on your busiest nights!

Chicken and Spinach Ramen Variations

Get ready to put your personal spin on this delightful ramen dish and create something truly unique!

Plant-Based: Swap chicken for tofu to create a delicious vegan version that’s just as satisfying.
Zucchini Noodles: Use spiralized zucchini in place of traditional ramen noodles for a low-carb, fresh twist.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in an assortment of seasonal vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
Spice Level Up: Add a dash of Sriracha or chili flakes to amplify the heat and wake up your taste buds with added flavor.
Creamy Broth: Stir in a splash of coconut milk when cooking for a richer, creamier broth that’ll make your ramen sing!
Different Mushrooms: Opt for shiitake mushrooms instead of porcini to give your broth a different earthy depth and flavor.
Extra Protein: Consider adding shrimp or cooked rotisserie chicken to elevate your dish and make it even heartier.
Topping Fun: Don’t be afraid to finish your ramen with unexpected toppings, such as crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Feeling inspired? You might love guiding your cooking journey with my other tasty recipes, like Chicken Fillet Spicy or a warm bowl of Tan Tan Ramen.

What to Serve With Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Enjoying a steaming bowl of this delightful ramen is truly comforting, but pairing it with the right side dishes elevates the meal to new heights.

Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunchy texture of these rolls complements the silky broth and adds an exciting contrast to the ramen.
Garlic Sautéed Bok Choy: This simple, vibrant side brings a fresh, crunchy element that balances the rich flavors of the ramen perfectly.
Miso Glazed Eggplant: Roasted and sweet, this dish enhances your meal with additional umami, making every bite of ramen even more fulfilling.
Asian Kale Salad: Featuring a zesty dressing, this salad brightens the palate, providing a refreshing kick alongside your comforting bowl of ramen.
Steamed Dumplings: Filled with juicy pork or veggies, their tender casing pairs beautifully with ramen, making each mouthful a flavorful experience.
Matcha Green Tea: This calming drink, with its earthy notes, rounds out the meal, soothing the senses while complementing the savory elements of the ramen.
Chili Crisp Topping: Drizzling this sauce over your ramen not only adds a spicy dimension but also introduces a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture.

From salads to sides, these pairings will transform your Chicken and Spinach Ramen into a truly memorable dining experience.

Chicken and Spinach Ramen Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best as they cook quickly and remain tender. You can also use cooked rotisserie chicken for a faster prep, simply shredding the chicken into the broth during the last step.

How do I choose ripe spinach?
For the freshest spinach, look for vibrant green leaves without dark spots or wilting. If you’re at the market, select those with crisp leaves. Fresh spinach will add important nutrients and enhance the overall flavor of your Chicken and Spinach Ramen.

How long can I store leftover Chicken and Spinach Ramen?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to enhance flavor and moisture.

Can I freeze Chicken and Spinach Ramen?
Absolutely! Freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat. For optimal noodle texture, keep the noodles separate from the broth before freezing, adding them in right before serving.

What should I do if my broth is too salty?
If the broth tastes too salty, you can balance it out by adding more water or nutrients like diced potatoes or carrots. The vegetables will absorb some salt as they cook. You can also add a squeeze of lime or a dash of vinegar for a bright flavor contrast.

Are there dietary considerations I should be aware of?
In this recipe, using Tamari instead of soy sauce makes it gluten-free. If you’re allergic to any specific ingredients, like the curry paste or bacon, feel free to adjust based on your needs. Always check labels to ensure everything meets your dietary restrictions.