Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the exotic flavors of Thai cuisine into a simple, quick-to-make soup that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s packed with bold spices and fresh herbs, yet easy to prepare with pantry staples and leftover chicken. The creamy coconut milk adds richness, while lime juice brightens the overall taste, creating a deliciously balanced meal that’s light but satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 heaping tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• Juice of 1 lime
• 3.5 ounces uncooked rice noodles
• 1 (13.5 ounce) can full fat coconut milk
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended)
• Generous handful fresh basil, torn
• Handful fresh cilantro, chopped
• Chopped scallions, to taste
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Thai red curry paste and cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
4. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 4-6 minutes, until tender.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and shredded chicken, allowing the soup to heat through but not boil.
7. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, fresh basil, cilantro, and scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot with additional lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of around 15 minutes, making it a fast and flavorful meal.

Variations

• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use extra tofu or vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
• Adjust the heat level by adding more or less red curry paste or including fresh chili slices.
• Substitute rice noodles with udon or soba noodles for a different texture.
• Add a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce for deeper umami flavor.
• Garnish with crushed peanuts or a drizzle of chili oil for extra crunch and spice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Note that rice noodles may absorb liquid and soften further upon reheating; you can add a little broth or water to loosen the soup if needed.

FAQs

Can I use other types of curry paste?

Yes, you can use green or yellow curry paste for a different flavor profile.

What kind of noodles work best in this soup?

Rice noodles are traditional, but you can also use glass noodles or even thin spaghetti in a pinch.

Can I make this soup without chicken?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with tofu, vegetables, or just keep it as a broth-based curry soup.

Is this soup spicy?

The level of spice depends on the curry paste used. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but add fresh herbs and lime juice just before serving for the best flavor.

How do I store leftover soup?

Keep it refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the noodles to maintain texture.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

Full-fat coconut milk is best for creaminess, but you can try coconut cream diluted with water or a non-dairy milk like cashew milk.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach work well added before serving.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Ensure your curry paste and broth are gluten-free, and stick with rice noodles or other gluten-free noodle options.

Conclusion

Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup is a deliciously quick way to enjoy the bold flavors of Thai cuisine at home. With its creamy coconut base, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs, it’s a comforting yet light meal perfect for any season. Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or a longtime fan, this soup offers a simple, satisfying dinner option that you can easily customize to your taste.

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