Discover the vibrant flavors of Thai Basil Chicken Soup with lime and coconut milk. This quick 30-minute recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests. Its unique blend of spices and fresh herbs creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of Thai red curry paste, lime, and coconut milk gives a rich and fragrant taste.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or appetizer, it fits various occasions—from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and mushrooms, it’s a nutritious option for family meals.
• Comforting: The warm broth provides coziness, making it ideal for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space to chop vegetables and meat without mess.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for uniform cooking and easy prep work.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 unit onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cm fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 liter chicken broth
• 400 ml coconut milk

For the Protein & Vegetables

• 2 breasts chicken, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button)

For Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (nuoc-mâm)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon cane sugar

How to Make Thai Basil Chicken Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will be the base for our aromatic flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Add sliced onions to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Stir gently to combine, allowing their flavors to infuse into the oil.

Step 4: Incorporate Curry Paste

Stir in the Thai red curry paste until it becomes aromatic. This step enhances the soup’s flavor profile significantly.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Coconut Milk

Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Mushrooms

Reduce heat slightly, then add thinly sliced chicken breasts and mushrooms into the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 7: Season the Soup

Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and cane sugar. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh Thai basil, red chili slices, cilantro, and lime wedges for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Thai Basil Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Thai Basil Chicken Soup

Serving Thai Basil Chicken Soup is an opportunity to enhance its vibrant flavors and textures. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that complement its rich, aromatic taste.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Thai basil: This is a must! It adds an authentic touch and enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• Lime wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side to add a tangy kick when squeezed over the soup.

Add Spice

• Red chili slices: For those who enjoy heat, fresh red chili slices can be added directly to each bowl.
• Chili oil: Drizzle a bit of chili oil on top for an extra flavor boost.

Pair with Rice

• Jasmine rice: Serve a scoop of jasmine rice on the side or even in the bowl to soak up the delicious broth.
• Sticky rice: A great option for dipping or enjoying alongside the soup.

Enjoy with Bread

• Crusty bread: A slice of crusty baguette serves as a wonderful tool for savoring every drop of the soup.
• Naan bread: Warm naan can be an excellent companion, perfect for dipping.

How to Perfect Thai Basil Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Thai Basil Chicken Soup can elevate this already delightful dish. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve fantastic results every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
• Adjust spice level: Modify the amount of curry paste according to your heat preference; start with less and add more if needed.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling once you add the chicken; simmering gently ensures tender meat and rich flavors.
• Taste before serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust saltiness or sweetness with fish sauce or sugar as desired.

Best Side Dishes for Thai Basil Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Thai Basil Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some flavorful options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Spring rolls: These crispy delights are filled with fresh vegetables and herbs, providing a nice crunch alongside the soup.
2. Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and sugar can balance out the heat from the soup.
3. Steamed dumplings: Soft steamed dumplings are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
4. Sesame noodles: Cold sesame noodles offer a different texture and are great at soaking up any leftover broth.
5. Fried tofu: Crispy fried tofu provides protein and pairs well with the flavors of your soup.
6. Vegetable stir-fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry can add extra nutrients and complements the main dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Thai Basil Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of broth: Always use chicken or vegetable broth for a rich flavor. Avoid using water as it can dilute the taste.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooked chicken becomes tough and dry, diminishing the soup’s texture.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. Adjusting salt and lime juice ensures a balanced flavor profile.

• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh Thai basil adds essential flavor and aroma. Don’t substitute with dried herbs, as they won’t provide the same freshness.

• Not balancing flavors: If your soup is too spicy, add a bit of sugar or coconut milk to balance it out. Always aim for a harmonious blend of spice, sweetness, and acidity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Thai Basil Chicken Soup in airtight containers.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Thai Basil Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Thai Basil Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Thai Basil Chicken Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What is Thai Basil Chicken Soup?

Thai Basil Chicken Soup is a flavorful dish made with tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and creamy coconut milk, perfect for cozy dinners.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef based on your preference without altering the overall essence of the soup.

How do I make it vegetarian?

To make Thai Basil Chicken Soup vegetarian, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day as flavors meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

Thai Basil Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding various vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

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Thai Basil Chicken Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thai Basil Chicken Soup, a delightful dish that combines the warmth of chicken broth with the richness of coconut milk and the aromatic zest of lime. This quick and easy 30-minute recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. The unique blend of Thai red curry paste, fresh herbs, and tender chicken creates a comforting soup that will please everyone at your table. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges, for an unforgettable meal that captures the essence of Thai cuisine.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 unit onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cm fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 liter chicken broth
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 2 breasts chicken, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button)
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or alternative)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon cane sugar

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Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté sliced onions until soft, about 3–5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in Thai red curry paste until aromatic.
5. Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk; bring to a boil.
6. Add sliced chicken and mushrooms; simmer for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
7. Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and cane sugar; adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh Thai basil, cilantro, red chili slices, and lime wedges.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of curry paste used.