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An overhead shot of a steaming bowl of Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup. The rich golden broth surrounds a nest of ramen noodles, topped with fanned-out slices of caramelized chicken.

Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup (Quick & Cozy)

This comforting Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup features a translucent golden broth, tender ramen noodles, and perfectly pan-seared chicken with caramelized edges. An aromatic and easy recipe ready in just 40 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 560

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (450g)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (15ml)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (1.9L)
  • 1 whole head garlic
  • 2 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and julienned (5cm)
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (30ml)
  • 2 packages (3 oz/85g) of instant ramen noodles, flavor packets discarded
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (15ml) optional, for aroma
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh scallions (50g) green parts only

Equipment

  • 1 Large Dutch Oven or Stockpot
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Tongs

Method
 

Prepare the Aromatics
  1. Roast the garlic: Slice the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with a little vegetable oil, wrap in foil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until soft. Once cool, squeeze out the cloves and mince them finely.
  2. While the garlic roasts, peel and julienne the ginger into thin strands. Chop the scallions and set aside.
Sear the Chicken Thighs
  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Transfer to a cutting board to rest, then slice.
Build the Golden Broth
  1. In a large Dutch oven, sauté the julienned ginger and minced roasted garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it gently simmer for at least 15 minutes.
Cook Noodles & Assemble
  1. In a separate pot of boiling water, cook the ramen noodles according to package directions. Drain well.
  2. Place a nest of cooked noodles in each bowl. Ladle the hot broth over top. Arrange sliced chicken on one side and garnish generously with chopped scallions.

Notes

Cook Noodles Separately: This prevents the starch from clouding your beautiful translucent broth.
Don't Crowd the Pan: Give each chicken thigh space to sear properly and develop a crust.
Taste and Adjust: Add another splash of soy sauce for saltiness or a dash of sesame oil for depth before serving.
Get a Good Sear: Ensure your pan is hot and the chicken is very dry for the best results.