A Historical Overview of Thai Chicken Soup
Thai Chicken Soup, often called Tom Kha Gai, has deep cultural roots in Thai cuisine. Traditionally prepared with coconut milk, galangal, lemongrass, and lime, this soup balances the four essential Thai flavors: spicy, sour, salty, and sweet. It has been a staple in Thai households for centuries, evolving into countless variations as it spread globally. Today, it remains one of the most comforting and aromatic dishes, enjoyed both as street food in Thailand and in kitchens around the world.
Thai Chicken Soup – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Thai Chicken Soup is creamy, aromatic, and bursting with bold flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners, it combines tender chicken, silky noodles, and fragrant herbs in a rich coconut broth. The balance of spice and citrus makes it both refreshing and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a hearty winter meal or a flavorful soup for gatherings, this recipe brings restaurant-quality Thai flavors straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (shredded)
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6 cups chicken broth
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1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
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2 tbsp red curry paste
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2 tbsp fish sauce
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 stalks lemongrass, smashed (optional)
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6 oz rice noodles
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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Juice of 2 limes
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Fresh cilantro, chopped
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Green onions, sliced
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer. Add garlic, ginger, and lemongrass.
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Stir in curry paste, fish sauce, and soy sauce until dissolved.
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Add coconut milk and chicken. Simmer for 15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
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Remove chicken, shred, and return to the pot.
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Add rice noodles and bell pepper, cooking until noodles are tender.
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Stir in lime juice, cilantro, and green onions.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lime.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
Swap chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein
Adjust spice level by adding more or less curry paste.
For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream.
Common Questions
1. Can I make this Thai Chicken Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms. Add extra veggies like baby corn, bok choy, or snap peas for heartiness.
2. Is Thai Chicken Soup spicy?
It has a mild to medium spice level depending on how much curry paste you add. You can tone it down with less paste or balance the heat with more coconut milk.
3. What can I serve with Thai Chicken Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, Thai spring rolls, or a light cucumber salad. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but these sides elevate it into a complete Thai-inspired meal.
