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Easy Thai Chicken Soup

Thai Chicken Soup is a rich, aromatic dish that blends the creamy goodness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of lemongrass, ginger, and Thai spices.
Tender chicken, mushrooms, and fresh herbs like cilantro and lime leaves create a comforting and flavorful soup with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, sour, and savory elements.
Whether enjoyed as a light meal or a hearty appetizer, this soup is a warm and satisfying taste of Thailand in every spoonful.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken breast cooked and shredded
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoons fresh ginger minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 cup spinach or kale
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Base: Start by heating a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
    Stir in chopped onions and continue cooking until they turn translucent. This step creates a flavorful base for the soup and helps build layers of taste.
  • Build the Flavor: Next, add the Thai red curry paste to the pot. Stir it around for about a minute, allowing it to bloom and release its full depth of flavor.
    Then, slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to incorporate the curry paste evenly.
  • Simmer the Soup: Add the chicken, sliced mushrooms, and carrots to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
  • Add the Creamy Coconut Milk: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the coconut milk. Let it warm through for a few minutes without boiling to maintain its creamy texture.
    Squeeze in the fresh lime juice and season with fish sauce or soy sauce, adjusting to taste.
  • Add the Greens & Serve: Finally, toss in the baby spinach and let it wilt into the soup.
    Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or even a few chili flakes if you like extra spice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Thai chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty yet light, packed with aromatic spices, and beautifully balanced with coconut milk, lime juice, and tender chicken. The best part? It’s quick to prepare, fully customizable, and perfect for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner. If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, this soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Expert Tips and Tricks

  • Don't Skip the Curry Paste: The Thai red curry paste is the heart of this soup’s flavor, so be sure to use a good-quality brand.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro or Thai basil adds an incredible depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicier, add extra curry paste, fresh chilies, or a dash of sriracha.
  • Make it a Meal: For a heartier dish, add cooked rice noodles or serve the soup over jasmine rice.
  • Use Bone Broth: For an extra nutrient boost, swap out regular chicken broth for homemade bone broth.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

This soup is highly customizable, allowing you to tweak it based on dietary needs or ingredient availability. Here are a few variations:
  • Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Swap fish sauce for soy sauce or tamari.
  • Seafood Option: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
  • Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, bok choy, or bamboo shoots for more texture and nutrition.
  • Lower Calorie: Use light coconut milk instead of full-fat for a lower-calorie option.
  • Flavor Boost: If you have access to kaffir lime leaves or lemongrass, add them to the broth for an even more authentic Thai flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these perfect pairings:
  • Side Dishes: Serve with crispy spring rolls, Thai basil fried rice, or garlic naan for dipping.
  • Beverages: A cold Thai iced tea or a glass of coconut water complements the warm, spicy flavors of this soup beautifully.
  • Condiments: Serve with extra lime wedges, chili flakes, or a drizzle of chili oil for additional heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.
  • Freezing: This soup freezes well! Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Thai Chicken Soup is your ticket to a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to make.
Whether you're looking to impress guests, prep a nourishing meal for the week, or simply enjoy a bowl of something comforting and delicious, this soup is a fantastic choice.
With its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and perfectly balanced spices, it's bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!