Nongshim Bowl Noodles Spicy Chicken

Based on my previous experience with other spicy versions of this ramen, I was immediately skeptical of the “Hot & Spicy” label on the Nongshim Bowl Noodles Spicy Chicken. Even before adding the hot water, I guessed this probably wasn’t going to bring much heat.

Produced in the United States. Distributed from South Korea.

What’s in the Package

Inside the bowl, there is a round block of fried wheat noodles with loose dehydrated garnishes scattered throughout. These include textured protein bits, dried green onions, carrots, and corn. A single large silver sachet is provided, which contains the Spicy Chicken flavor soup base powder.

How to Cook Nongshim Bowl Noodles Spicy Chicken

Hot Water Method

1. Remove the lid, stir well, and enjoy.
2. Open the lid halfway. Empty the soup base sachet onto the noodles.
3. Pour boiling water up to the inside fill line (approx. 370ml).
4. Close the lid and let it sit for 3 minutes.

Microwave Method (1000W)

1. Completely remove the paper lid. Add the soup base powder.
2. Fill with room-temperature water up to the inside fill line.
3. Microwave on high for 3 minutes.
4. Stir thoroughly before serving.

How Does It Taste

There’s a dash of heat if you really go looking for it but James and I both registered it at a 1 out of 5 and even that might be generous. The flavor is heavily MSG and salt with strong onion powder and garlic powder notes. Closer to a chicken bouillon cube than actual chicken flavor.

The dry noodle block comes with what looks like dried oregano and tiny bits of soy protein chicken. The noodles are standard wavy, decent chew, nothing exceptional. Broth is very thin.

How Does It Compare

Within the Nongshim Bowl Noodles lineup the Spicy Chicken is the weakest of the three we’ve reviewed. The Hot & Spicy has the seaweed depth and narutomaki that give it a real identity. The Spicy Shrimp has a more distinct flavor profile. This one is the most generic of the three. It reminded us more of Maruchan than Nongshim. If you’re choosing between the three start with the Hot & Spicy.

How to Level Up Nongshim Bowl Noodles Spicy Chicken

Beansprouts for crunch and kimchi for the tang and heat this bowl is missing. A few dashes of Tabasco gives it a vinegary kick that works better here than chili oil. Since the base is so neutral it takes additions well. Don’t be shy.

Final Verdict

A basic salty cup that doesn’t deliver on its spice label. The noodles are fine and the bowl takes toppings well but straight out of the packet there’s not much going on. Skip it unless you’re doing a full Nongshim Bowl Noodles comparison.

Related Instant Ramen

• Nongshim Bowl Noodles Hot & Spicy
• Nongshim Bowl Noodles Spicy Shrimp
• Nongshim Shin Ramyun Spicy Noodle Soup
• Maruchan Instant Lunch Hot and Spicy Beef
• Nissin Hot & Spicy Chicken

Tasting Notes

• Spice Level: 1/5
• Broth Viscosity: 1/5
• Noodle Thickness: 1/5
• Noodle Type: Wavy
• Topping Suggestions: Bean Sprouts, Kimchi, Tabasco Sauce

Where to buy Nongshim Bowl Noodles Spicy Chicken

• Amazon
• Hmart
• Walmart