Top ramen with half a slice of cheese

Top ramen with half a slice of cheese is a easy Japanese recipe that serves 1. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Lisa Nguyen on YouTube.

Prep: 4 min | Cook: 6 min | Total: 12 min

Cost: $0.77 total, $0.77 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 package Instant Ramen Noodles (85 g, discard the flavor packet if using chicken seasoning)
  • 2 cups Water (Hot water prepared in the microwave)
  • 1 teaspoon Chicken Seasoning (Can be chicken bouillon powder or a pre‑made chicken seasoning blend)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Salt (Regular table salt)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground preferred)
  • 0.5 slice Processed Cheese Slice (About 10 g, American or mild cheddar works well)

Instructions

  1. Heat Water

    Place the microwave‑safe bowl on a plate, add 2 cups of water, and microwave on high for 3 minutes until boiling.

    Time: PT3M

  2. Cook the Ramen Noodles

    Add the instant ramen noodles to the hot water, break them gently if needed, and microwave for 3 minutes (instead of the package’s 5‑minute suggestion). Stir once halfway through.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Drain the Noodles

    Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot) and pour the noodles and broth through a colander or fine mesh sieve to discard excess water.

    Time: PT30S

  4. Season the Noodles

    Sprinkle 1 tsp chicken seasoning, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper over the noodles. Toss quickly to coat evenly.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Add Cheese

    Place half a slice of processed cheese on top of the seasoned noodles.

    Time: PT30S

  6. Final Melt

    Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for 15 seconds, just until the cheese softens and begins to melt.

    Time: PT15S

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
12 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Non‑vegetarian, Contains gluten, Contains dairy

Allergens: Wheat (gluten), Dairy, Soy (if soy‑based seasoning is used)

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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Top ramen with half a slice of cheese

Recipe by Lisa Nguyen

A quick, microwave-friendly ramen dish packed with chicken seasoning and a melty half slice of cheese. Perfect for a comforting snack or a fast solo meal, this recipe takes just minutes from start to finish.

EasyJapaneseServes 1

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1m
Prep
6m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
17m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$0.77
Total cost
$0.77
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Heating water to a full boil in the microwave
  • Cooking the ramen noodles for exactly 3 minutes
  • Adding the cheese and giving it a final short microwave burst

Safety Warnings

  • Hot water and bowl will be very hot; use oven mitts or a towel when handling.
  • Microwave steam can cause burns – open the bowl away from your face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of ramen in Japanese cuisine?

A

Ramen originated in China and was introduced to Japan in the early 20th century, evolving into a beloved fast‑food staple. Over decades it became a symbol of comfort and convenience, with countless regional variations across Japan.

cultural
Q

How does the addition of cheese change the traditional Japanese ramen experience?

A

Cheese is not a traditional Japanese ramen topping; it reflects modern fusion trends, especially popular in Korean‑Japanese street food. The melted cheese adds a creamy richness that balances the salty chicken seasoning.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of chicken flavored ramen exist in Japan?

A

In Hokkaido, chicken‑based miso ramen is common, while in Kyushu you’ll find tonkotsu (pork) broth with chicken garnish. Some regions add butter or corn, showing how flexible ramen can be.

cultural
Q

On what occasions is ramen traditionally served in Japanese culture?

A

Ramen is enjoyed year‑round as a quick lunch, late‑night snack, or comfort food after a night out. It’s also served at school festivals and casual gatherings, never typically reserved for formal events.

cultural
Q

What other Japanese dishes pair well with a cheesy chicken flavored ramen?

A

A simple cucumber sunomono (vinegar salad), gyoza dumplings, or a side of edamame complement the richness of the cheesy ramen and add fresh contrast.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Cheesy Chicken Flavored Ramen?

A

Overcooking the noodles makes them mushy, and microwaving the cheese too long turns it rubbery. Also, forgetting to drain excess water can dilute the seasoning.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe microwave the noodles instead of boiling them on the stove?

A

Microwaving speeds up the process and uses fewer dishes, perfect for a quick solo meal. It also allows precise timing for the 3‑minute cook, preventing over‑softening.

technical
Q

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Flavored Ramen ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can pre‑cook and drain the noodles, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cheese and give a short microwave blast just before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Lisa Nguyen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Lisa Nguyen focuses on quick, budget‑friendly Asian‑inspired meals and snack‑size recipes that are easy for beginners and college students to prepare.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Lisa Nguyen's approach to Japanese-inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Lisa Nguyen emphasizes ultra‑fast microwave techniques, minimal cleanup, and ingredient shortcuts while still preserving authentic flavors, setting her apart from channels that rely on traditional stovetop methods.

channel

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