Chicken Katsu Ramen is a tasty dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken with warm, flavorful ramen noodles in a savory broth. This meal is a popular choice for many people because it mixes two amazing foods: fried chicken and ramen. Whether you’re at a Japanese restaurant or making it at home, Chicken Katsu Ramen is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how Chicken Katsu Ramen is made, its ingredients, and why it’s so popular. By the end, you’ll be craving this delicious dish, and you might even want to try making it yourself!
What is Chicken Katsu Ramen?
A Japanese Comfort Food
Chicken Katsu Ramen is a fusion dish that brings together two famous Japanese foods: chicken katsu and ramen.
- Chicken Katsu: This is a crispy, breaded chicken cutlet that’s fried until golden brown. The chicken is tender on the inside, and the breading gives it a crunchy texture on the outside.
- Ramen: Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup made with soft noodles served in a flavorful broth. The broth can be made from different ingredients like pork, chicken, or vegetables. Ramen usually has toppings like boiled eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
When combined, chicken katsu and ramen make a perfect meal for those who love both fried food and comforting noodles.
The Ingredients for Chicken Katsu Ramen
To make a delicious bowl of Chicken Katsu Ramen, you’ll need a few essential ingredients for both the crispy chicken katsu and the ramen broth. Don’t worry, these ingredients are easy to find, and you might already have some in your kitchen!
Ingredients for the Chicken Katsu (Crispy Chicken)
Chicken Breasts or Thighs – 2 pieces (boneless, skinless)
- You can use either chicken breast or thighs. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but chicken breasts are leaner and work well for a lighter version.
All-Purpose Flour – 1/2 cup
- This is used for coating the chicken before dipping it into the egg and breadcrumbs.
Eggs – 2 large eggs (beaten)
- The beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, making it crispy when fried.
Panko Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
- These are Japanese breadcrumbs known for their light, crispy texture. Panko breadcrumbs create the signature crunch for the chicken katsu.
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- For seasoning the chicken.
Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
- To add a bit of seasoning and flavor.
Vegetable Oil (for frying) – About 2 cups
- To deep fry the chicken until golden and crispy.
Ingredients for the Ramen Broth
Chicken Broth – 4 cups
- You can use store-bought chicken broth or homemade if you prefer. It’s the base of your soup.
Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons
- Adds salty, savory depth to the broth.
Miso Paste – 1 tablespoon (optional)
- For extra umami flavor. It’s not mandatory, but it enhances the broth’s richness.
Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
- Fresh minced garlic adds a fragrant kick to the broth.
Ginger (minced) – 1 tablespoon
- Adds a zesty flavor to balance the broth’s richness.
Sesame Oil – 1 teaspoon
- Adds a nutty flavor that complements the broth.
Mirin (optional) – 1 tablespoon
- This Japanese sweet rice wine adds a subtle sweetness to the broth.
Ramen Noodles
- Ramen Noodles – 2 servings
- You can use fresh, frozen, or dried ramen noodles. Fresh noodles give the best texture, but any will work.
Toppings for the Chicken Katsu Ramen
Soft-Boiled Eggs – 2 eggs
- Soft-boiled eggs with a slightly runny yolk are a classic ramen topping. To cook, simmer eggs for about 6-7 minutes, then cool in ice water before peeling.
Green Onions – 2 stalks (chopped)
- Chopped green onions add freshness and crunch to the ramen.
Nori (Seaweed) – 1-2 sheets (optional)
- Thin sheets of nori (dried seaweed) are often added for flavor and garnish.
Bamboo Shoots – 1/4 cup (optional)
- Pickled bamboo shoots are often added to ramen bowls for their crunchy texture.
Sesame Seeds – 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor and texture.
Summary of Exact Ingredients
For the Chicken Katsu:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
the Ramen Broth:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
For the Ramen:
- 2 servings ramen noodles
the Toppings:
- 2 soft-boiled eggs
- 2 stalks green onions (chopped)
- 1-2 sheets nori (optional)
- 1/4 cup bamboo shoots (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
How to Make Chicken Katsu Ramen
Making Chicken Katsu Ramen is a fun and rewarding process. With a few steps, you can turn simple ingredients into a delicious and satisfying dish. The recipe involves two main parts: cooking the chicken katsu (crispy chicken) and preparing the ramen broth. Let’s break it down!
Preparing the Chicken Katsu
Prepare the Chicken
- First, you need to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly. You can use a meat mallet or rolling pin for this. If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces.
Season the Chicken
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning will bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Dredge the Chicken
- Prepare three bowls for the breading process:
- Bowl 1: Add the flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs in this bowl.
- Bowl 3: Put the panko breadcrumbs in this bowl.
- Start by dredging each chicken piece in the flour (coat it lightly), then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure the breadcrumbs cover the chicken completely.
Fry the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You need enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces and fry them for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Slice the Chicken
- After the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into thin strips. This will make it easier to place on top of your ramen.
Making the Ramen Broth
Prepare the Broth Base
- In a large pot, pour the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to keep the broth from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Add Soy Sauce and Miso Paste
- Add the soy sauce and miso paste (if using). Stir well to dissolve the miso paste completely. Miso adds depth and umami to the broth, making it extra flavorful.
Add Garlic and Ginger
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the broth. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can develop. Garlic and ginger are key to giving the broth a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Finish the Broth
- Stir in sesame oil and mirin (if using) for a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Let the broth simmer for a few more minutes to allow all the ingredients to blend together.
Cooking the Ramen Noodles
Boil the Noodles
- While the broth is simmering, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, they take just 2-4 minutes to cook. Be sure not to overcook them; they should be al dente.
Drain and Rinse the Noodles
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps remove extra starch.
Assembling the Chicken Katsu Ramen
Prepare the Bowls
- Divide the cooked ramen noodles into two bowls.
Add the Broth
- Ladle the hot broth into each bowl, pouring it over the noodles.
Top with Chicken Katsu
- Gently place the sliced chicken katsu on top of the noodles. You can fan it out to make the dish look extra inviting.
Add the Toppings
- Add any additional toppings you like:
- Place a soft-boiled egg on top (cut it in half for a runny yolk).
- Sprinkle chopped green onions for freshness and color.
- Add nori (seaweed), bamboo shoots, and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is assembled, your Chicken Katsu Ramen is ready to be served! Enjoy this comforting bowl of crispy, savory goodness. The combination of the crispy chicken, flavorful broth, and tender ramen noodles makes for a perfect meal.
Pro Tips:
- Customize your toppings: You can also add other toppings like corn, spinach, or mushrooms to make the ramen more hearty and flavorful.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken katsu and broth ahead of time. Just reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
Now you know how to make Chicken Katsu Ramen from scratch! This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s a fun way to enjoy homemade ramen with a crispy twist.
Why Is Chicken Katsu Ramen So Popular?
A Comforting and Filling Meal
Chicken Katsu Ramen is a complete meal that’s comforting and filling. The crispy chicken adds texture and crunch, while the ramen noodles and broth bring warmth and flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel cozy and satisfied, perfect for a cold day or when you need something extra special.
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
Another reason Chicken Katsu Ramen is so loved is because of the perfect balance of flavors. The savory broth, the crispy chicken, and the tender noodles all come together to create an explosion of taste in your mouth. It’s a unique blend of textures and flavors that work together beautifully.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Katsu Ramen
If you want to make your Chicken Katsu Ramen even better, here are some helpful tips!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken, good-quality ramen noodles, and homemade broth will make your dish taste even better.
- Make your own broth: If you have time, making your own chicken broth from scratch will give your ramen a richer, more flavorful base.
- Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to try different toppings like corn, spinach, or even spicy chili oil for an extra kick.
- Serve it hot: Ramen is best when it’s hot, so make sure everything is freshly cooked before you assemble your dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Katsu Ramen Made Of?
Katsu ramen is a delicious and hearty Japanese dish that combines ramen noodles with chicken katsu (breaded and deep-fried chicken) and a rich, flavorful broth. The dish is made up of several key components:
- Chicken Katsu: Breaded and deep-fried chicken, typically chicken breast or thigh, coated in panko breadcrumbs, giving it a crispy and golden exterior.
- Ramen Noodles: Soft and chewy wheat noodles that serve as the base of the dish.
- Broth: A flavorful broth, often made from chicken or pork, seasoned with ingredients like soy sauce, miso paste, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. The broth can be rich and savory, with a touch of sweetness from ingredients like mirin.
- Toppings: Traditional toppings include soft-boiled eggs, green onions, nori (seaweed), bamboo shoots, and sesame seeds. These add extra flavor, texture, and color to the dish.
The combination of crispy chicken, soft noodles, and savory broth makes chicken katsu ramen a satisfying and flavorful meal.
What Does Chicken Katsu Ramen Taste Like?
Chicken katsu ramen offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures:
- Crispy Chicken: The deep-fried chicken katsu has a crunchy, golden-brown exterior and a juicy, tender interior. The panko breadcrumbs give the chicken a light, airy crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft ramen noodles.
- Savory Broth: The broth is typically umami-rich with savory flavors from ingredients like soy sauce, chicken broth, and miso paste. It may also have a hint of sweetness from mirin and sesame oil, creating a well-balanced, comforting taste.
- Chewy Noodles: The ramen noodles are soft and slightly chewy, soaking up the flavors of the broth and offering a satisfying mouthfeel.
- Toppings: The soft-boiled eggs add a creamy richness, while green onions and nori contribute fresh, slightly salty notes.
Together, these elements create a harmonious taste that is both comforting and full of flavor, with each bite offering a balance of crispy, savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
How Do You Eat Chicken Katsu Ramen?
Eating chicken katsu ramen is straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind to fully enjoy the dish:
- Start with the Broth: Begin by sipping the broth with a spoon to enjoy its rich, savory flavor. The broth is the base of the ramen and will often have a balance of salty, umami, and sometimes sweet flavors.
- Noodles and Chicken: Next, use chopsticks to grab a bite of the ramen noodles, which should be slurped up (this is actually a part of the tradition in Japanese cuisine). The noodles will soak up the broth, making each bite flavorful.
- Crispy Chicken Katsu: Take a piece of chicken katsu (which should be crispy) and break it up into smaller pieces. You can either eat it alongside the noodles or add it directly into the broth. As you eat, the crispy chicken contrasts nicely with the soft noodles and the warm broth.
- Enjoy the Toppings: After the main components, enjoy the soft-boiled eggs, green onions, and other toppings. They add extra flavor and texture, making each bite a little different.
- Final Bite: Once the noodles and toppings are finished, you can drink the remaining broth or use a spoon to savor the last bits of deliciousness.
What is the Difference Between Chicken Katsu and Tonkatsu?
Both chicken katsu and tonkatsu are popular Japanese dishes featuring breaded and deep-fried meat, but they have a few key differences:
- Meat Type:
- Chicken Katsu uses chicken (typically boneless breast or thigh), while tonkatsu uses pork (usually a pork cutlet, like pork loin or pork tenderloin).
- Texture and Flavor:
- Chicken Katsu tends to be a bit lighter, as chicken is leaner than pork, offering a more delicate flavor and texture.
- Tonkatsu has a richer and more robust flavor, with pork providing a slightly fattier and juicier bite compared to chicken.
- Serving Style:
- Chicken Katsu is often served in dishes like katsu curry or chicken katsu ramen. The chicken is fried and served as a whole piece or sliced into strips.
- Tonkatsu is traditionally served with a side of tonkatsu sauce, shredded cabbage, and rice. It’s also commonly used in tonkatsu sandwiches (katsu sando).
So, the main difference comes down to the type of meat used, with chicken in chicken katsu and pork in tonkatsu. Both are delicious, but they provide slightly different eating experiences.
Conclusion
Chicken Katsu Ramen is an amazing dish that combines the best of both worlds: crispy fried chicken and comforting ramen noodles. It’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to be a hit with your family or friends. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or trying something new in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become one of your favorites.
So, the next time you’re craving something hearty and flavorful, give Chicken Katsu Ramen a try—you won’t be disappointed!