If you’re craving a bowl of comfort with a bold twist, look no further than these Spicy Pickled Cucumber Ramen Noodles. Combining the satisfying chew of ramen noodles with a vibrant, tangy, and spicy pickled cucumber topping, this dish offers an exciting flavor explosion that is both refreshing and warming. The addition of tender shredded chicken and a savory chicken broth makes this bowl a complete meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re a ramen lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Spicy Pickled Cucumber Ramen Noodles recipe stands out because it balances cool, crisp pickled cucumbers with the heat of chili paste and the richness of chicken broth. The pickling process infuses the cucumbers with tang and spice, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm noodles and broth. Plus, the sesame oil and seeds add a nutty undertone that brings everything together beautifully.

What really makes this recipe unique is its simplicity and versatility; you can whip up the pickled cucumbers while the noodles cook, making it a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The shredded chicken adds protein, turning it into a hearty bowl that’s satisfying yet light. If you’re curious about other Asian-inspired dishes, you might also enjoy exploring the Asian Chicken Salad, which shares a similar fresh and flavorful vibe.

Ingredients

2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon chili paste
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups chicken broth

How To Make Spicy Pickled Cucumber Ramen Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Pickled Cucumbers

In a small bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumber with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and chili paste. Stir well to coat the cucumbers evenly. Let this mixture sit while you prepare the rest of the dish. This allows the cucumbers to pickle slightly, soaking up the spicy, tangy flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Ramen Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions (usually about 3 minutes). Avoid using the seasoning packets as they tend to be salty and don’t match the flavor profile of this recipe. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Chicken Broth and Chicken

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the broth just to warm it through, about 2-3 minutes. This step helps infuse the chicken with the broth’s flavor and keeps the dish piping hot.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Divide the cooked ramen noodles between two bowls. Ladle the warm chicken broth and shredded chicken over the noodles. Top with the spicy pickled cucumbers, chopped green onions, a drizzle of sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and aroma.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors, then dig in! These Spicy Pickled Cucumber Ramen Noodles are best enjoyed immediately while the broth is warm and the pickled cucumbers remain crisp.

Expert Tips

Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best crunch in your pickled topping.
Don’t skip the sesame oil and seeds—they add essential nuttiness and texture.
If you like extra heat, add more chili paste or a dash of chili flakes.
For a richer broth, simmer chicken bones with aromatics for homemade chicken stock.
To keep this dish quick, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftovers.
Serve with a side of steamed greens or a light salad to round out the meal.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit chicken. Add tofu cubes for protein.
Seafood Twist: Swap shredded chicken for cooked shrimp or crab meat.
Extra Veggies: Add thinly sliced carrots, radishes, or bean sprouts for more crunch and color.
Spice Level: Adjust the chili paste quantity or use a milder chili sauce if preferred.
Noodle Alternatives: Use soba, udon, or rice noodles for different textures.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover noodles and broth separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the spicy pickled cucumbers in a separate container to maintain their crispness. When ready to eat, gently reheat the broth and noodles on the stove or microwave, then top with fresh pickled cucumbers and garnishes before serving.

FAQ

Can I make the spicy pickled cucumbers ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cucumbers can be prepared a few hours or even a day in advance. The longer they sit in the vinegar and chili mixture, the more flavorful and tangy they become. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to use.

What type of chili paste works best for this recipe?

A good-quality chili garlic paste or gochujang (Korean chili paste) works wonderfully, adding both heat and depth. If you prefer less heat, you can substitute with a mild chili sauce or reduce the amount used.

Is it necessary to use sesame oil?

While not mandatory, sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you don’t have it on hand, you can use a neutral oil, but the distinctive aroma will be missing.

Can I use instant ramen seasoning packets instead of chicken broth?

It’s best to avoid the seasoning packets as they often contain high sodium and artificial flavors that don’t complement the fresh and spicy elements of this recipe. Using chicken broth keeps the flavor balanced and more natural.

Conclusion

This Spicy Pickled Cucumber Ramen Noodles recipe is a delightful way to enjoy ramen with a fresh and fiery twist. The interplay between the cool, tangy pickled cucumbers and the warm, savory chicken broth creates a bowl of noodles that’s packed with flavor and texture. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, it’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their noodle game with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon find it becoming a go-to meal for any day of the week.

Share on Pinterest

Print Recipe Save it for later