Clean Eating Ramen With Canned Chicken For Easy Meal Prep Days
If you’re on the hunt for a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, look no further than this clean eating ramen with canned chicken. This recipe is perfect for meal prep days, allowing you to whip up several servings that can be enjoyed throughout the week. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and all the essential nutrients your body craves.
Ramen is often associated with quick meals and late-night snacks, but it doesn’t have to be unhealthy. By incorporating wholesome ingredients like canned chicken and fresh vegetables, you can transform this classic dish into a clean-eating masterpiece. Plus, using canned chicken saves time and adds a hearty protein component without the hassle of cooking meat from scratch.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 packs of whole grain ramen noodles
- 1 can (12.5 oz) of canned chicken, drained
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the shredded carrots and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to cook slightly.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the ramen noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes.
- While the noodles are cooking, add the canned chicken to the pot. Use a fork to break the chicken into smaller pieces as it heats through.
- Stir in the baby spinach, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the soy sauce if you prefer a saltier flavor.
- Once everything is heated through and the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Divide the ramen into bowls and enjoy hot. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why Choose Clean Eating Ramen?
This clean eating ramen recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to control the ingredients. Many instant ramen options are loaded with sodium and preservatives, but making it at home lets you choose whole, natural ingredients. You can customize the flavors and add your favorite veggies, making it a versatile meal.
Utilizing canned chicken makes this dish even more convenient. Canned chicken is pre-cooked, saving valuable time in the kitchen. It’s an excellent source of protein and can be a lifesaver on those busy days when you need a quick meal without sacrificing nutrition.
Tips for Meal Prep
Meal prepping can significantly simplify your week. Here are some tips to ensure your clean eating ramen stays fresh and delicious:
- Store ingredients separately: To keep the noodles from becoming mushy, store the broth, noodles, and toppings separately. Combine them when ready to eat.
- Use airtight containers: Invest in good quality meal prep containers that seal tightly. This will help maintain freshness and prevent spills.
- Reheat carefully: When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the noodles.
- Batch cook: Double or triple the recipe to ensure you have enough meals for the week. Ramen is easy to customize, so you can change up the flavors with different vegetables or sauces.
Nutritional Benefits of Ingredients
Each ingredient in this clean eating ramen has its own set of nutritional benefits. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Whole Grain Ramen: A healthier alternative to traditional ramen, whole grain noodles offer more fiber and nutrients.
- Canned Chicken: A great source of lean protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
- Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, spinach adds essential nutrients while being low in calories.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Known for their immune-boosting properties, these mushrooms also add unique flavor and texture.
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene and fiber, carrots contribute to overall health and digestion.
- Green Onions: These add crunch and flavor while providing antioxidants.
Creative Variations
This ramen recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Add more protein: Consider adding tofu, shrimp, or boiled eggs for an extra protein boost.
- Change the broth: Experiment with different types of broth, such as vegetable or beef broth, for varied flavors.
- Incorporate other veggies: Try adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious upgrade.
- Spice it up: Add chili paste or sriracha for an extra kick if you enjoy spicy food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Simply cook it separately and shred it before adding it to the ramen.
How long does the ramen last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the ramen can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this ramen?
While the noodles may not retain their texture well after freezing, you can freeze the broth and vegetables separately. Just cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to eat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free as it uses whole grain ramen. However, you can substitute with gluten-free noodles if needed.
Conclusion
Preparing clean eating ramen with canned chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its nourishing ingredients and ease of preparation, this recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this ramen dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your health goals on track. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious ramen!
