Name: Cozy Chicken and Spinach Ramen for Healthy Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 slices Bacon (Substitute with turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian.); 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth for vegetarian option.); 3 tablespoons Tamari or Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free.); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Can substitute with apple cider vinegar.); 8 ounces Brown Rice Ramen Noodles (Gluten-free option.); 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Can use chicken thighs for more flavor.); 4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach (Kale is a hearty alternative.); 1 cup Mushrooms (wild or cremini) (Any preferred fresh mushrooms work.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Fresh ginger is ideal.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh is preferable.); 1 cup Acorn Squash (Swap with butternut squash or skip.); 1 cup Dried Porcini Mushrooms (Optional but recommended.); 1 tablespoon Red Curry Paste (Adjust for spice tolerance.); 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Oil (Can substitute with olive oil.); Serving Toppings (Customize with soft-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, green onions, and chili crisp sauce.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Used to roast the squash; maple syrup is a vegan alternative.)

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On a blustery evening, I found myself yearning for something that felt like a warm embrace—comfort food that nourishes the soul. That’s when I decided to whip up my Better For You Chicken and Spinach Ramen, a healthy twist on a classic favorite. This cozy bowl combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and rich flavors, all while being effortlessly adaptable with Instant Pot, stovetop, or crockpot options. Not only does this recipe come together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also gluten-free with simple substitutions for those with dietary needs. As the fragrant broth simmers, the anticipation grows—what toppings will you choose to elevate your bowl? Let’s dive into a nourishing experience that brings a taste of joy right to your table.

Why Is This Ramen So Special?

Healthy Comfort: This Chicken and Spinach Ramen brings warmth and nourishment to your table without any guilt.

Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you prefer the Instant Pot, stovetop, or crockpot, this recipe has you covered for those cozy cooking sessions.

Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and umami-rich broth creates an irresistible dish that delights the senses.

Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, this ramen is perfect for busy weeknights—you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying!

Perfect for Everyone: Dietary needs are easily accommodated with simple substitutions, making it suitable for almost any palate.

Consider pairing this comforting bowl with Honey Butter Chicken for an added treat or explore other healthy options like Keto Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake to diversify your meals.

Chicken and Spinach Ramen Ingredients

• To create this cozy and nourishing Chicken and Spinach Ramen, you’ll need a delightful array of ingredients that will not only elevate the dish but also make it a healthy choice for any meal!

For the Broth

Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor; substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option or omit for a vegetarian dish.
Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Serves as the soup’s base; vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version.
Tamari or Soy Sauce – Brings depth and saltiness; use tamari for gluten-free.
Rice Vinegar – Introduces a tangy note; can be swapped with apple cider vinegar if necessary.

For the Noodles

Brown Rice Ramen Noodles – A gluten-free option that retains the dish’s authenticity; feel free to substitute with your favorite noodle type.

For the Protein

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The dish’s main protein; chicken thighs can be substituted for more flavor, or omit for a meatless option.

For the Vegetables

Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds nutrients and vibrant color; kale is a hearty alternative.
Mushrooms (wild or cremini) – Contributes umami and texture; any preferred fresh mushrooms will work well.
Ginger – Provides aromatic warmth; fresh ginger is ideal, but ground ginger substitutes in a pinch.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor of the broth; fresh is preferable, though powdered garlic can be used.
Acorn Squash – Adds a touch of sweetness as a topping; swap with butternut squash or skip if desired.

For Flavor Boosts

Dried Porcini Mushrooms – Deepens broth flavor; optional but recommended; substitute with more fresh mushrooms if you don’t have dried.
Red Curry Paste – Elevates the dish with heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance or use mild curry paste for less heat.
Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds a lovely nutty aroma; olive oil can substitute if needed.

For Optional Toppings

Serving Toppings – Customize your ramen with soft-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, green onions, and chili crisp sauce for that extra burst of flavor!
Honey – Used to roast the squash, adding sweetness; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.

Get ready to enjoy a bowl of Chicken and Spinach Ramen that’s not only comforting but also perfect for every occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Step 1: Prepare Bacon
Begin by cooking the bacon in your Instant Pot or a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until it turns crispy and deliciously fragrant. This will create a savory base for your Chicken and Spinach Ramen. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, and once ready, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Add Vegetables
In the same pot, stir in diced mushrooms, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and red curry paste. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become tender and the garlic is fragrant. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will signal that it’s time to enhance the soup’s flavor profile before adding the broth.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the low sodium chicken broth along with water, tamari or soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Then, add the chicken breasts, dried porcini mushrooms, toasted sesame oil, and acorn squash if you’re using it. Close the lid of your Instant Pot, set it to high pressure, and cook for 8 minutes, or if using a crockpot, set it on low for 4-6 hours.

Step 4: Release Pressure/Remove Ingredients
Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure on the Instant Pot. Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the pot. Remove the acorn squash, and then stir in the brown rice ramen noodles and fresh baby spinach. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the noodles to soften and absorb those comforting broth flavors.

Step 5: Roast Squash
While the ramen is resting, you can prepare the acorn squash for roasting. Preheat your broiler and place the squash halves, brushed with honey, on a baking sheet. Broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye until they’re golden and crisp around the edges, enhancing the sweetness for topping your Chicken and Spinach Ramen later.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the hearty Chicken and Spinach Ramen into warm bowls, and top generously with the roasted acorn squash and your choice of additional toppings, such as soft-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, green onions, and a drizzle of chili crisp sauce. Enjoy your cozy bowl of homemade comfort right away, filled with delightful flavors and nutritious goodness!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken and Spinach Ramen in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles separate to avoid sogginess.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the broth and cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add noodles and fresh spinach when reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat the ramen on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture. Enjoy it warm, just like the first bowl!

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Chicken and Spinach Ramen are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (mushrooms, spinach, and ginger) and combine the broth ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For even better quality, consider cooking the bacon and chicken ahead, shredding the chicken, and refrigerating it separately for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy your ramen, simply reheat the broth mixture in your Instant Pot (or saucepan), stir in the ramen and spinach, and let it sit until the noodles soften. This way, you’ll have a cozy bowl of comfort food ready to delight your taste buds with minimal evening effort!

Chicken and Spinach Ramen Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make the Chicken and Spinach Ramen uniquely yours!

Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegan delight. Tofu absorbs flavors beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
Noodle Alternatives: Swap brown rice ramen for gluten-free udon or soba noodles for different textures. Each noodle type brings a new character to the dish!
Spice It Up: Increase heat by adding sliced jalapeños or a few extra spoonfuls of red curry paste. If you’re a spice lover, don’t hold back!
Add Crunch: Toss in fresh vegetables like snow peas or bell peppers right before serving for a crisp contrast. Not only do they add color, but they also enhance the nutrient profile.
Creamy Broth: Incorporate a splash of coconut milk for a rich, creamy broth. This twist transforms your ramen with a tropical flair that is simply irresistible.
Shiitake Flavor Boost: Exchange regular mushrooms for shiitake for a deeper umami flavor. These mushrooms carry an earthy richness that elevates the broth magnificently.
Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice just before serving brightens flavors and adds a refreshing zing. It truly elevates the taste experience with a citrusy bite!
Meat-Free Delight: Go completely meatless by adding lentils or chickpeas as your protein boost. They are not only hearty but also serve as wonderful flavor absorbers.

As you customize your bowl of Chicken and Spinach Ramen, consider pairing it with a side of Oven Baked Chicken Thighs for a complete meal or enjoy it alongside a soothing cup of White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder for a cozy dinner spread. Enjoy exploring these variations!

Expert Tips for Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Adjust Spice Level: Start with a small amount of red curry paste and gradually add more to suit your heat preference; this prevents overpowering the dish.
Fresh Ingredients Only: Opt for fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor; dried alternatives can dull the taste of your Chicken and Spinach Ramen.
Don’t Overcook Noodles: Add the ramen noodles at the end and let them soak for just 5 minutes; this keeps them firm and prevents a mushy texture.
Layering Flavors: Sauté the bacon and vegetables thoroughly to build depth in your broth; rushing this step can result in a flat taste.
Substitution Simplifications: If you don’t have specific ingredients, like porcini mushrooms, increase the quantity of your fresh mushrooms instead without stressing over exact matches.
Garnish Variations: Get creative with your toppings! Adding soft-boiled eggs or chili crisp sauce transforms your Chicken and Spinach Ramen into a gourmet experience.

What to Serve With Better For You Chicken and Spinach Ramen

Rich, hearty, and aromatic, this ramen is your gateway to a delightful meal experience that goes beyond the bowl.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights add a satisfying texture contrast. Filled with vegetables, they’re a great starter to kick off your cozy meal.
Garlic Fried Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic perfectly complements the broth’s flavors while offering a comforting base for your ramen.
Sesame Green Beans: Bright green beans coated in sesame oil add a fresh, crisp element that cuts through the ramen’s richness. They’re nutritious and vibrant!
Spicy Kimchi: For a bold kick, serve kimchi on the side. Its tangy heat harmonizes beautifully with the creamy broth, enhancing your dining experience.
Soft-Boiled Eggs: A classic ramen topping, they add rich creaminess and protein, making your bowl feel even more complete and luxurious.
Pickled Vegetables: Bright, tangy pickles add complexity and brightness; their crunch gives a whole new level of excitement to each spoonful.
Matcha Green Tea: Pair your ramen with a warm cup of this subtly sweet tea; its earthy notes refresh the palate between bites.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish off with dessert! This creamy, chocolatey treat is light yet satisfying, providing a sweet ending to your cozy meal.

Chicken and Spinach Ramen Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this ramen?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but if you’re looking for even more flavor, chicken thighs are a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, feel free to omit the meat entirely and replace it with tofu or additional vegetables!

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken and Spinach Ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the noodles from becoming soggy, it’s best to store the soup and noodles separately if possible.

Can I freeze Chicken and Spinach Ramen?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the broth and cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container and keep it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat the broth and add freshly cooked noodles and spinach so they’re perfect and not mushy.

What should I do if I don’t have brown rice ramen noodles?
No worries at all! You can substitute brown rice ramen with any other gluten-free noodle option like udon or soba, just make sure they’re gluten-free. If you prefer to use regular ramen, that works fine too—just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Great question! Start with a smaller amount of red curry paste—perhaps 1 teaspoon to begin with—and taste the broth as it simmers. If you feel it needs more heat, gradually add more paste until you reach your desired spice level.

Is this ramen suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! This Chicken and Spinach Ramen can easily be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and opting for brown rice ramen noodles. Always check labels on any packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free, just to be safe!