Total Cost: ~$11.50 | Serves: 2 | Time: 20–25 mins
This is my favorite upgrade to Buldak ramen whenever I want something that tastes way more expensive than it actually is. The spicy carbonara sauce gets balanced by juicy chicken thighs and a jammy egg, making it feel like a full meal instead of just instant noodles. Everything came from H-Mart, and the leftovers make it surprisingly affordable.
| Ingredient | Store | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Buldak Carbonara Ramen (2-pack) | H-Mart | ~$4.99 |
| Boneless skinless chicken thighs (~1 lb) | H-Mart | ~$4.99 |
| Eggs (1 dozen) | H-Mart | ~$3.49 |
| Neutral cooking oil | Pantry | ~$0.10 |
| Green onions (optional) | H-Mart | ~$0.99 |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | Pantry | Minimal |
Note: You'll only use two eggs and about one pound of chicken, so you'll have extra eggs left for future meals.
Pat the chicken thighs dry and season lightly with salt and pepper if you have them.
Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
Carefully lower in two eggs and cook:
Transfer immediately to an ice bath, then peel.
Bring about 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add the noodles and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Drain most of the water, leaving about 4–5 tablespoons in the pot.
Add the included liquid sauce packet and carbonara powder packet to the noodles.
Stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Divide the noodles between two bowls.
Top with sliced chicken and one egg per bowl.
Finish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if you have them.
Total per serving: ~$5.40
This is one of my favorite dorm meals because it takes instant ramen and turns it into something that actually feels filling. The chicken makes it substantial enough for dinner, and the jammy egg cuts through the heat while making the sauce even creamier. If you're shopping at H-Mart anyway, it's an easy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes without needing a long list of ingredients.
If you're feeling extra hungry, I'll sometimes throw in a slice of American cheese or a splash of milk when mixing the sauce—it makes the carbonara even creamier without taking away the signature Buldak kick.