Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken and spices wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling Korean street food market. That’s when I knew I had to share my twist on the classic—a recipe for Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles. This delightful dish brings together juicy chicken, chewy noodles, and a generous blanket of melty cheese, all while keeping the prep time under 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate low-effort meal for those cozy nights when you crave comfort without the fuss. You’ll love how this easy recipe balances the flavorful heat of Korean spices with creamy goodness, making it a sure-fire crowd-pleaser! Curious how to whip up this quick feast? Let’s dive in! Why Try Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles? Quick and Easy: In less than 30 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy Korean flavors with melted cheese creates an unforgettable taste experience in every bite. Customizable: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or swap proteins, making this dish versatile to suit every palate. Comfort in a Bowl: Imagine the warmth of cheesy, sticky noodles that provide the ultimate comfort food experience, just like in your favorite Korean street food stalls. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing, this recipe will leave your family and friends raving and asking for seconds! Once you try these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll know just how satisfying it can be to add that creamy touch to your meals! Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles Ingredients • Dive into the delightful components that make this dish shine! For the Chicken Boneless Chicken Thigh – Juicy and tender when cooked; feel free to substitute with chicken breast if desired. Gochugaru (1.5 tbsp) – These Korean red chili flakes add spice and depth; adjust based on your heat preference. Minced Garlic (2.5 tbsp) – Offers aromatic warmth; in a pinch, garlic powder (1 tsp) can be used instead. Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Provides mild heat and seasoning. Gochujang (1 tbsp) – This Korean chili paste adds both sweet and spicy notes; Sriracha can be a substitute, but the flavor will differ. Soy Sauce (2 tbsp) – Enhances umami; opt for low-sodium if you want to cut back on salt. Sweetener (1 tbsp, e.g., honey) – Balances the spiciness; you can also use sugar, maple syrup, or agave syrup. Neutral Oil – Ideal for frying without overpowering flavors; vegetable or canola oil works well. For the Veggies Onion (1, sliced) – Adds sweetness and flavor depth to the dish. Mixed Mushrooms (150g, sliced) – Brings earthiness and texture; feel free to swap with any preferred veggies for variety. For the Noodles Noodles (2 packs) – Korean Instant Ramyeon provides that perfect chewy texture; fresh ramen or udon are great alternatives as well. For the Topping Shredded Cheese (1/2 – 1 cup) – Adds creaminess; mozzarella or a blend ensures the best melt. Get ready to impress your taste buds with these Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles that are bursting with flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a mixing bowl, combine the boneless chicken thighs with gochugaru, minced garlic, black pepper, gochujang, soy sauce, and sweetener. Massage the mixture well into the meat, ensuring every piece is coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients, allowing the flavors to infuse the chicken beautifully. Step 2: Cook Noodles Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add the Korean instant Ramyeon noodles. Cook the noodles for 3–4 minutes, until they are slightly undercooked (just chewy). Drain them well and set aside to prevent them from sticking while you continue with the Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles. Step 3: Pan-Fry Chicken Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of neutral oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, allowing them to brown. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and 70% cooked through, releasing mouthwatering aromas as they sear perfectly. Step 4: Add Vegetables With the chicken still in the pan, gently push it to one side and add the sliced onion and mixed mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor profile of your Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles while adding a colorful touch. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Add the previously drained noodles to the pan, mixing them well with the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes, ensuring the noodles absorb the juices and flavors from the chicken and veggies. This comforting mixture is the heart of your Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles, full of richness and warmth. Step 6: Melt Cheese Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the noodle mixture, covering it evenly. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the cheese melt for about 3–4 minutes until bubbly and gooey, creating that delightful melty layer. This final touch brings your Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles to life! Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the cheese is perfectly melted, remove the pan from the heat. Carefully scoop the cheesy chicken noodles into serving bowls, ensuring each bowl contains a hearty mix of chicken, noodles, and melted cheese. Garnish as desired and savor this delightful and comforting dish. Your journey of creating these Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles is complete! Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it uniquely yours; the delicious possibilities are endless! Vegetable Boost: Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to increase nutrition and color. Cheesetastic: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or cheddar for a rich flavor. Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian option, ensuring to adjust cooking times accordingly. Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or crab for a seafood version, cooking them just until tender for a fresh flavor boost. Noodle Flexibility: Switch out the noodles for fresh ramen, udon, or even gluten-free pasta if desired. Spice Level Up: For more heat, add chopped fresh chilies, or extra gochugaru, customizing to your spice tolerance. Creamy Comfort: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream for an extra creamy texture and rich flavor. Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions to enhance freshness and add a pop of color. Pair these tasty variations with your main dish, and if you’re in the mood for something new, check out Hawaiian Chicken Salad or try making Chicken Bacon Ranch for a delightful twist on dinner! Expert Tips for Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles Perfect Chicken: Ensure your chicken is marinated thoroughly to infuse maximum flavor and keep it juicy during cooking. Noodle Check: Cook the noodles slightly under (al dente) to prevent them from becoming mushy when mixed. Heat Control: Use medium-high heat while pan-frying to achieve a nice golden crust on the chicken without burning the spices. Cheese Meltdown: Cover the pan while melting cheese to create a gooey, delicious topping for the Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles. Customize Wisely: When substituting vegetables or proteins, keep cooking times in mind for optimal texture and flavor balance. Balance Flavors: Adjust the gochujang to match your spice tolerance, ensuring a perfect blend of heat and sweetness in the dish. What to Serve with Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles? Nothing complements a spicy and cheesy feast like thoughtful side dishes that enhance your dinner experience! Creamy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that cools down the heat, offering a crisp texture to balance the rich flavors. Simple Pickled Vegetables: The tang and crunch from pickles provide a delightful contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of spicy noodles. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed, this green vegetable adds a nutritious touch and a pleasant color, pairing beautifully with the vibrant dish. Sesame Garlic Bread: The nutty flavor of sesame enhances the meal while providing a hearty, crunchy element that you can dip into the sauce. Korean-style Egg Soufflé: Soft and fluffy, this egg dish is light yet satisfying, helping to mellow the spicy kick of your noodle dish. Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and subtly sweet, this drink perfectly complements the spiciness of the Buldak noodles, providing a soothing sip with every bite. Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a rich chocolate lava cake offers a decadent end to your meal, creating a wonderful sweet contrast to the spicy entrée. Embrace these pairings, and let them create a memorable dining experience with your Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles! Storage Tips for Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: These Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion them into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to revive the noodles. Alternatively, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Note: When storing, avoid adding cheese until ready to serve, as it may affect texture when reheated. Make Ahead Options These Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles are perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish with minimal effort during the week. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors deepen for a more intense taste. Additionally, you can cook the noodles partially and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; this helps retain their chewiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply pan-fry the marinated chicken, combine it with your prepped noodles and desired veggies, and finish by melting the cheese on top. This method not only saves you time on busy nights but ensures your meal is just as delightful and hearty as when freshly prepared! Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ripeness for chicken thighs? Absolutely! Opt for chicken thighs that are plump and free from any dark spots or off odors. Fresh chicken should have a light pink color and feel moist but not slimy. If using chicken breasts as a substitute, look for ones that are firm and avoid any that feel excessively soft or have excessive bruising. How should I store leftovers of Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles? Very simply! Place the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If reheating, just add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture and avoid dryness in the noodles. Can I freeze Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles? Yes, you can! These Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles freeze well. Portion them into freezer-safe containers and make sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in a skillet or the microwave, adding a splash of water to help with moisture. What should I do if my noodles are mushy? If you find your noodles are mushy, it usually means they were overcooked. To troubleshoot, cook the noodles for just 3-4 minutes until they are slightly undercooked. Drain them immediately and toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking until you’re ready to add them to the dish. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Certainly! If you or an attendee has allergies to gluten, consider using GF noodles or zucchini noodles as an alternative. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that spices such as garlic and excessive sodium (found in soy sauce) can be harmful, so save a plain, unseasoned portion for them if you want to share the love. What if I can’t find Gochugaru? No worries! If you can’t locate Gochugaru, you can substitute it with a mix of regular chili flakes and a touch of smoked paprika for depth. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on your heat preference—it’s all about finding that perfect balance for your taste buds! Savor the Heat: Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles Made Easy Discover the delightful Buldak-Style Cheesy Korean Spicy Chicken Noodles that combine juicy chicken and chewy noodles for a spicy meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: KoreanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken500 g Boneless Chicken Thigh Feel free to substitute with chicken breast if desired.1.5 tbsp Gochugaru Korean red chili flakes, adjust based on your heat preference.2.5 tbsp Minced Garlic Garlic powder (1 tsp) can be used instead.0.5 tsp Black Pepper Provides mild heat and seasoning.1 tbsp Gochujang Korean chili paste; substitute with Sriracha as needed.2 tbsp Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium if you want to cut back on salt.1 tbsp Sweetener (e.g., honey) Balance the spiciness, other options include sugar or maple syrup.2 tbsp Neutral Oil Vegetable or canola oil works well.For the Veggies1 Onion Sliced.150 g Mixed Mushrooms Sliced; can swap with any preferred veggies.For the Noodles2 packs Noodles Korean Instant Ramyeon; fresh ramen or udon are alternatives.For the Topping1 cup Shredded Cheese Mozzarella or a blend ensures the best melt. Equipment mixing bowllarge potNon-stick Pan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, combine the boneless chicken thighs with gochugaru, minced garlic, black pepper, gochujang, soy sauce, and sweetener. Massage well into the meat and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add the Korean instant Ramyeon noodles. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly undercooked. Drain and set aside.Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat with a splash of neutral oil. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.Push the chicken to one side and add sliced onion and mixed mushrooms. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender and fragrant.Add the drained noodles to the pan, tossing well with the chicken and vegetables for 1-2 minutes to absorb the juices.Sprinkle shredded cheese over the noodle mixture and cover the pan with a lid. Reduce heat to low and let it melt for about 3-4 minutes.Once the cheese is melted, scoop the cheesy chicken noodles into serving bowls and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesPerfectly marinate chicken for maximum flavor, and adjust spice levels according to preference. Cook noodles al dente to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
