Go Back

Thai Chicken Soup

This Thai chicken soup combines aromatic lemongrass, spicy galangal, and a flavorful chicken broth simmered to perfection. The ingredients meld together in a gentle simmer, resulting in a bright, spicy broth with tender chicken, mushrooms, and fresh herbs, creating a comforting and vibrant dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 stalks lemongrass bruised and sliced
  • 1 inch galangal sliced thin
  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably homemade or well-seasoned
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste such as sambal oelek, adjust spice level
  • 1 pound chicken breast or thighs thinly sliced
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 1 lime lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 green onions green onions sliced thin
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients, including lemongrass, galangal, chicken, and herbs, ready for a quick and flavorful cooking process.
  2. Heat the large pot over medium heat, then add a splash of oil and sauté the sliced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 2 minutes, until they release a bright aroma.
  3. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the pot, cooking until just browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same pot, add the sliced lemongrass and galangal, cooking for another 2 minutes until they release a citrusy and piney aroma.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in fish sauce and chili paste, letting the broth bubble softly for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the pot, then add sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the chicken is heated through.
  7. Turn off the heat and stir in lime juice for brightness. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce or lime if needed.
  8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.