Creamy sesame chicken ramen is the kind of comforting bowl that instantly makes you slow down and savor every bite. Tender sesame-seared chicken, silky noodles, and a rich, creamy broth infused with garlic, ginger, and tahini come together in a dish that feels cozy, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. It’s a perfect balance of savory, nutty, and gently creamy flavors that turn simple ingredients into something truly special.
If you love classic ramen bowls that focus on building layers of flavor from simple components, you’ll also enjoy Authentic Japanese Ramen, which showcases the foundations of a great homemade ramen experience.
This creamy sesame chicken ramen is ideal for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or anytime you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that still feels fresh and balanced. It delivers restaurant-style comfort without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Table of Contents
Creamy Sesame Chicken Ramen – Cozy 30-Minute Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Sear the chicken: Heat sesame oil and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
- Build the broth: In a large pot, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, tahini, and rice vinegar. Simmer 8–10 minutes.
- Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk) and gently simmer 2 minutes.
- Cook noodles & vegetables: Add ramen noodles, bok choy, and shredded carrots to the broth. Cook 2–3 minutes until noodles are tender and bok choy is just wilted. Stir in corn if using.
- Assemble & serve: Divide ramen into bowls. Ladle noodles and creamy broth into each bowl. Top with sliced sesame chicken, bok choy, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Notes
- Chicken thighs give a richer, juicier result.
- For spicy ramen, add chili oil or sriracha to taste.
- Store broth and noodles separately for best texture.
- Great with extra toppings: nori, bamboo shoots, or bean sprouts.
Why this creamy sesame chicken ramen works
A great ramen bowl starts with a flavorful broth, and this recipe builds depth in a smart, simple way. Garlic and fresh ginger are gently sautéed in a combination of sesame oil and olive oil, releasing their aroma and forming a fragrant base. Chicken broth is then added and simmered, allowing the flavors to blend smoothly.
Tahini (or sesame paste) is what gives this ramen its signature creamy, nutty character. Combined with heavy cream or coconut milk, it creates a broth that feels rich without being heavy. Soy sauce adds savory depth, while rice vinegar provides just enough acidity to keep everything balanced.
Cooking the noodles directly in the broth allows them to absorb flavor, while bok choy, shredded carrots, and corn add color, texture, and natural sweetness. The sesame-seasoned chicken, sliced and added at the end, stays juicy and tender.
If you enjoy ramen with deep, savory flavor and comforting warmth, Miso Chicken Ramen is another delicious option with a slightly different umami-forward profile.
Ingredient notes (what truly matters)
Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card, but these notes help ensure the best results.
Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts both work well. Thighs are juicier, while breasts keep the dish lighter.
Sesame oil
Adds nutty aroma and authentic flavor. A little goes a long way.
Tahini or sesame paste
Creates creaminess and depth. Choose a smooth, well-stirred paste.
Heavy cream or coconut milk
Both work beautifully. Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness.
Ramen noodles
Fresh or dried ramen noodles are ideal. Use good-quality noodles for best texture.
Vegetables
Bok choy, carrots, and corn provide crunch, color, and balance.
Toppings
Green onions, cucumber slices, sesame seeds, and soft-boiled eggs add freshness and contrast.
Tips for the best results
- Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness
- Do not boil the broth aggressively after adding cream
- Slice chicken against the grain for tenderness
- Add noodles near the end to avoid overcooking
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Variations you can try
Make it spicy
Add chili oil, sriracha, or chili flakes.
Extra veggies
Mushrooms, spinach, or snap peas work well.
Protein swap
Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken.
Dairy-free version
Use coconut milk instead of cream.
Extra sesame flavor
Finish with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.
Serving ideas
Creamy sesame chicken ramen is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs nicely with light sides such as cucumber salad, edamame, or steamed dumplings.
If you’re craving another comforting chicken dinner with rich, creamy flavor, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken makes a great cross-cluster choice.
Storage and reheating
Storage
Store broth, noodles, and chicken separately when possible. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Warm broth gently on the stovetop. Add noodles and chicken just before serving.
Freezing
Freeze broth and chicken only, up to 2 months.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Keep components separate for best texture.
Is this very salty?
No, but always taste and adjust.
Can I use light coconut milk?
Yes, but broth will be less creamy.
Final thoughts
Creamy sesame chicken ramen proves that homemade ramen doesn’t have to be complicated. With a rich sesame broth, tender chicken, and simple toppings, this recipe delivers comforting flavor in every spoonful.
For general background on ramen as a Japanese noodle soup, you can consult Wikipedia – Ramen.
