Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen

There is something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of ramen. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weekday, a bowl of tender chicken, slurpy noodles, and rich broth feels like a warm hug. For many, ramen is associated with quick college meals, but this slow cooker version transforms it into a wholesome, homemade dish that’s both easy and satisfying.

This Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen is perfect for beginner cooks because it requires minimal effort—just toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it work its magic. No complicated steps, no fancy techniques—just delicious, foolproof results. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful meal while avoiding the excessive sodium of store-bought instant ramen.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Hands-Free Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work for you, making this ideal for busy days.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and ramen noodles.
• Customizable – You can swap out ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen.
• Nutritious & Wholesome – Fresh vegetables, lean protein, and homemade broth make it healthier than instant ramen.

Ingredients and Preparation

This recipe calls for easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create a flavorful broth and tender chicken.

Key Ingredients and Their Role

• Chicken (Breasts or Thighs) – Provides protein and rich flavor. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
• Garlic & Scallions – Add depth and aroma to the broth.
• Vegetables (Carrots, Bell Peppers, Snap Peas) – Bring crunch, color, and nutrients. Feel free to use bok choy, mushrooms, or baby spinach instead.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful base of the soup. Low-sodium broth is best for control over seasoning.
• Soy Sauce & Brown Sugar – Balance savory and sweet flavors in the broth. You can substitute tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Ramen Noodles – Classic, quick-cooking noodles that soak up the broth beautifully. You can use rice noodles for a lighter alternative.
• Soft-Boiled Egg – A signature ramen topping that adds richness. Fried eggs work too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Load Up the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Add minced garlic, sliced bell peppers, matchstick carrots, snap peas, and chopped scallions on top. These ingredients will infuse the broth with flavor as they cook.

Step 2: Make the Broth

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and one seasoning packet from the ramen. Pour this over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should become tender enough to shred easily with a fork.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

About 30 minutes before serving, break the chicken apart into bite-sized pieces using tongs or forks. Then, add the dry ramen noodles, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the broth.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once the noodles are tender, ladle the ramen into bowls. Top with extra scallions and a soft-boiled egg sliced in half. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade, restaurant-quality ramen!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Tell if the Chicken is Cooked: It should easily shred with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Prevent Overcooked Noodles: Add ramen only in the last 30 minutes; otherwise, they may turn mushy.
• Adjusting the Saltiness: If using regular soy sauce, consider reducing the amount or using low-sodium broth.
• Want More Spice? Add a dash of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili oil for heat.

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker ramen is already a complete meal, but you can enhance it with these additions:

• Side Dishes: Serve with steamed dumplings, a light cucumber salad, or edamame for a full Asian-inspired meal.
• Extra Toppings: Try sesame seeds, nori (seaweed), shredded cabbage, jalapeños, or a drizzle of sesame oil.
• A Fresh Squeeze of Lime: Adds brightness and balances the flavors beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To prevent soggy noodles, store them separately from the broth.
• Freezer: Freeze the broth and chicken only for up to 2 months. Add fresh noodles when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Give It a Try!

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen is a beginner-friendly way to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a stress-free dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear how you customized it and what toppings you added.

Happy cooking!

FAQ About Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen

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