Name: Thai Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed; 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 tbsp fish sauce; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Jump to Recipe

There is something truly magical about a bowl of Thai Chicken Soup that warms you from the inside out, especially when the chill of winter sets in or when you crave a taste of vibrant, tropical flavors. This soup perfectly balances tender chicken with the bright, aromatic notes of lemongrass and fresh ginger, rounded out by creamy coconut milk. Every spoonful is like a comforting hug that’s fragrant, fresh, and far from ordinary. Whether you’re new to Thai cuisine or a seasoned lover of bold flavors, this Thai Chicken Soup is a must-try that brings both comfort and excitement to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this Thai Chicken Soup shine. Each component plays its part in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures—from the creamy coconut milk that softens the spices, to the fresh vegetables that add brightness and crunch.

Chicken breast, diced: Provides tender protein that soaks up all the fragrant broth flavors beautifully.
Chicken broth: Forms the savory base that carries the soup’s rich, comforting taste.
Coconut milk: Adds silky creaminess and balances the spice with subtle sweetness.
Lemongrass stalk, smashed: Infuses the soup with fresh, citrusy aroma that defines Thai cooking.
Fresh ginger, sliced: Brings a warming and slightly spicy heat that complements the chicken perfectly.
Red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness to contrast the savory broth.
Mushrooms, sliced: Offer earthy depth and satisfyingly meaty texture.
Fish sauce: A few tablespoons provide umami punch and authentic Thai flavor.
Juice of 1 lime: Brightens the soup with zesty acidity that lifts the whole dish.
Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a herbal freshness that finishes the soup beautifully.

How to Make Thai Chicken Soup

Step 1: Create the Flavorful Broth

Start by combining chicken broth, creamy coconut milk, smashed lemongrass, and sliced ginger in a large pot. This mixture serves as the aromatic and flavorful foundation of your Thai Chicken Soup. Bring everything to a gentle simmer to allow those key ingredients to infuse the broth with their bright, warming scents.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Vegetables

Once your broth is simmering and fragrant, add the diced chicken breast along with sliced red bell pepper and mushrooms. Cooking these together lets the chicken become tender and juicy, while the vegetables soften just enough to provide texture and freshness without losing their vibrant colors.

Step 3: Season and Finish

After about 15 minutes, when the chicken is thoroughly cooked, stir in fish sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice. These final touches balance the soup with salty, tangy notes that bring all the flavors alive. Remove the lemongrass and ginger slices if you prefer a smoother broth, then spoon the hot soup into bowls.

How to Serve Thai Chicken Soup

Garnishes

Garnishing your Thai Chicken Soup with fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and herbal brightness that complements the richness of the broth. Feel free to sprinkle on some chopped green onions or even a few thinly sliced fresh chili peppers if you love an extra kick of heat!

Side Dishes

This soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs perfectly with simple sides like jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad. Rice helps soak up that delicious coconut-infused broth, while a crunchy salad adds contrast and keeps the meal lively and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in small coconut bowls or highlight the tropical vibe by placing it alongside lime wedges and extra fresh herbs on the side. Offering little dishes of chili flakes or extra fish sauce allows everyone to tailor their soup experience, making your Thai Chicken Soup an exciting and interactive meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Thai Chicken Soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the fresh flavors and prevent the coconut milk from separating. Give it a gentle stir before reheating to bring everything back together.

Freezing

While it’s possible to freeze Thai Chicken Soup, keep in mind that the texture of the coconut milk might change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in portions without cilantro or lime juice, then add fresh herbs and acid after reheating for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat your soup over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling as this can cause the coconut milk to curdle. When warmed through, freshen it up with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to revive the vibrant flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and will add extra richness and tenderness to the soup. Just dice them similarly and adjust cooking time if needed.

Is Thai Chicken Soup spicy?

This recipe is mild by default but can easily be adjusted. Add fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of Thai chili paste if you crave more heat, or omit them altogether for a gentler flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, omit the chicken, and consider adding tofu or extra mushrooms for protein. Use soy sauce instead of fish sauce to keep it vegan-friendly.

What can I substitute for lemongrass?

If you don’t have fresh lemongrass, you can use lemongrass paste or ground lemongrass powder. Alternatively, a bit of fresh lemon zest can help mimic that citrusy aroma.

How do I make the broth more flavorful?

Simmering the broth with additional aromatics like garlic, shallots, or kaffir lime leaves can deepen the flavor. Toasting the spices beforehand also brings out more complexity in the soup’s profile.

Final Thoughts

If you are searching for a dish that feels both comforting and exciting, this Thai Chicken Soup is exactly what you need. Its perfect blend of creamy coconut, zesty lime, and warming spices will quickly become a favorite for cozy nights and anytime you want a little sunshine in a bowl. Don’t wait — dive in and enjoy every flavorful spoonful!

Thai Chicken Soup Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 12 reviews

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A cozy and aromatic Thai Chicken Soup featuring tender diced chicken simmered in a fragrant broth infused with lemongrass, fresh ginger, coconut milk, and brightened with lime juice and fish sauce. This comforting and flavorful soup is perfect for chilly evenings and offers a delicious tropical twist.

Instructions

Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, coconut milk, smashed lemongrass stalk, and sliced fresh ginger. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to infuse.
Add Chicken and Vegetables: Add the diced chicken breast, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the simmering broth. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Season the Soup: Stir in the fish sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice to the pot, balancing the soup’s salty, savory, and tangy flavors.
Serve Garnished: Remove the lemongrass stalk and ginger slices if desired. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish generously with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Notes

For a spicier version, add sliced Thai chilies or a dash of chili flakes.
If lemongrass is unavailable, use lemon zest or a small amount of lemon grass paste.
This soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring the fish sauce is gluten-free or substituting with tamari soy sauce.
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a richer flavor, lightly toast the ginger slices and lemongrass before adding to the broth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Thai