Thai dishes are often thought to include hard to find ingredients, and seen as a treat that can only be enjoyed at your favorite Thai restaurant. This Thai Chicken Soup recipe for chicken soup with coconut milk and lime is proof that those delicious flavors can easily be achieved at home with simple ingredients already available at your local supermarket. Coconut milk adds a silky texture to this soup and the lemongrass and lime brighten the chicken stock base. Enjoy with a bowl of rice on the side.
Thai chicken Soup Recipes
Thai chicken Soup with Coconut Milk and Lime
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 oz mushrooms sliced (preferably shitake)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 5 cups chicken stock
- 1 lb chicken breasts or boneless thighs, cut into thin strips
- 2 leeks white sections only and thinly sliced
- 2 stalks lemongrass sliced into large sections
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger fresh
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce or more to taste
- 2 cups coconut milk about 1½ cans
- 1 teaspoon lime zest fresh grated
- 1/3 cup lime juice or to taste
- 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil for drizzling
Instructions
- In a large stock pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat, and add the mushrooms and leeks. Saute until golden, about 10 minutes. Add the chicken stock, chicken strips, ginger, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and allow to simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the coconut milk and lime zest to the pot, and cook at medium-low heat for another 15 minutes.
- Before serving, remove the lemongrass stalks, add the lime juice, and garnish with chopped cilantro, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Slow Cooker Thai Chicken Soup
In crafting a flavorful slow cooker Thai chicken soup, begin by layering tender chicken pieces into the slow cooker. Follow this with a medley of aromatic ingredients: coconut milk, chicken broth, smashed lemongrass, galangal or ginger slices, torn kaffir lime leaves, Thai chili peppers, sliced onion, and minced garlic. To achieve a harmonious balance of flavors, season the soup with fish sauce and brown sugar, adjusting to taste as needed. Let the soup simmer gently on low heat for 4-6 hours, allowing the ingredients to meld and develop richness. As the soup nears readiness, add sliced mushrooms and halved cherry tomatoes for a vibrant addition. Before serving, remove any remnants of lemongrass, galangal or ginger, and kaffir lime leaves, then brighten the flavors with a splash of lime juice, salt, and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a final flourish of aroma and freshness. Serve this aromatic slow cooker Thai chicken soup piping hot, savoring each spoonful of its fragrant and comforting essence.
Tips for making Thai Chicken Soup
Cooking Tips
The key to maximum flavor is first charring the ginger and lemongrass to release their natural oils before simmering them in the broth. I also like to really pile on the garlic, lime juice and fish sauce to make it truly taste like the soups I enjoyed traveling Thailand.
When adding the coconut milk, go for full-fat. The richness helps mellow out all those big, bold flavors. I love mixing in some chopped cilantro and scallions at the end too for a pop of color and freshness.
As for the chicken, poaching it right in the broth infuses so much more flavor than just boiling it separately. I like using bone-in chicken thighs for the best texture and taste. Just let it gently simmer until the meat is fall-apart tender.
Ladled piping hot over rice noodles, garnished with crispy shallots, chili oil and a squeeze of lime – this Thai chicken noodle soup is sheer comfort in a bowl! The array of flavors and textures in each bite is so addicting.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful pairing with your aromatic Thai chicken soup, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Kohlrabi Salad. The crisp, slightly sweet flavor of the kohlrabi, combined with the tangy dressing and fresh herbs, will complement the richness of the soup perfectly. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something heartier, Steak Teriyaki could be an excellent choice. The savory, umami-rich flavors of the steak, glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, will provide a satisfying contrast to the lightness of the soup. Another option could be Vegetable Maki, offering a lighter, more delicate accompaniment that enhances the overall Asian-inspired experience. The combination of fresh vegetables and sushi rice wrapped in seaweed provides a textural contrast to the velvety soup, while the soy sauce and wasabi add a touch of depth and heat. Whether you opt for the refreshing salad, indulgent steak, or delicate maki rolls, each serving suggestion promises to elevate your dining experience, ensuring a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Thai Chicken Soup
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely, but chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful. If you choose chicken breasts, be cautious not to overcook them, as they can become dry.
- How can I make the soup spicier? To increase the spice level, add more Thai chili peppers or a dash of chili oil. You can also let the soup simmer longer with the peppers in it.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, Thai chicken soup reheats beautifully. Store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stove. Remember to adjust seasonings as flavors may intensify after resting.
- Can I freeze leftovers? While you can freeze Thai chicken soup, coconut milk can sometimes change in texture after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a day or two.
- Are there vegetarian versions of this soup? Certainly! Replace the chicken with tofu or add extra vegetables like bell peppers, bamboo shoots, or baby corn for a vegetarian twist. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian option.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed this little foray into aromatic, Asian-inspired soups as much as I have. There’s just something so deeply satisfying about that velvety broth infused with lemongrass, ginger and lime.
If you give this Thai Chicken Soup a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Post a photo on Instagram and tag @foodandmeal so I can see your delicious creations. Did you add any veggies or make it spicier? I’m always looking for ways to reinvent this tasty staple.
And be sure to keep checking the Food and Meal blog for more quick and easy dinner recipe inspiration featuring global flavors. With just 30 minutes of active time, this soup makes the perfect weeknight meal. I’ll share more of my favorite tips and tricks for infusing big, bold flavors into simple homemade dishes.
I'm Tracy F Hilton, a devoted culinary professional shaped by a mix of natural aptitude and refined skills from a top culinary school. In the dynamic kitchen environment, I'm a catalyst for seamless operations and timely, high-quality dish preparation. My culinary creations are a blend of art and skill, offering visually and gustatorily delightful experiences. A learner at heart, I'm continuously honing my craft, embracing new techniques, and culinary innovations. My positive, collaborative nature is amplified in fast-paced settings, showcasing my commitment to team efficiency and guest satisfaction. Each dish I present is a meticulous blend of tradition and innovation, promising an unforgettable dining experience that marries taste, aroma, and aesthetic appeal in perfect harmony. Join me on a gastronomic journey where each bite encapsulates a rich, evolving narrative of flavors and culinary artistry.