Description
Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine with this comforting Thai Chicken Curry Soup. Perfect for cozy days, it brings together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant Thai curry paste. This dish is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will transport you straight to Thailand with every bite!
1 lb boneless chicken breasts, bite-sized
3 tbsp Thai red curry paste
2 cans coconut milk
3 cups chicken broth
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 carrots, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tbsp fish sauce
Juice of 1 lime
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper
Fresh cilantro and Thai basil (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in curry paste, then add coconut milk and broth.
4. Simmer with vegetables, season with fish sauce, lime, and sugar.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 320
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect soup.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Push the chicken to one side. Add the Thai red curry paste to the pot and fry it in the oil for 1 minute to unlock its full flavor.
- Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything and dissolve the curry paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer. Add the sliced carrots and bell pepper. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce (for saltiness) or lime juice (for acidity) as desired.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the hot soup into deep bowls. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and Thai basil leaves. For a complete meal, serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles. A wedge of lime on the side allows guests to add extra brightness. For added crunch and texture, top with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or crispy fried shallots.
How-to Summary
Sauté aromatics, brown the chicken, and fry the curry paste. Add liquids and simmer with vegetables. Finish with fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas are excellent substitutes. Add delicate proteins like shrimp at the very end of cooking.
How do I control the spice level? Start with 2 tablespoons of curry paste for a milder soup. You can always add more at the end. For extra heat, add a sliced Thai chili during simmering.
Is there a substitute for fish sauce? For a vegetarian option, use soy sauce or tamari. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, it stores wonderfully. Let it cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve. Reheat gently on the stove.
My soup is too thick/thin. How can I fix it? If too thick, add a splash of broth or water. If too thin, simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not frying the curry paste: Skipping the step of frying the paste in oil results in a raw, less flavorful soup.
- Overcooking the chicken: Adding the chicken too early or boiling vigorously can make it tough. Simmer gently.
- Adding lime juice while boiling: High heat can make lime juice bitter. Always add it at the end, off the heat.
- Using “light” coconut milk: This can make the soup watery and less rich. Full-fat coconut milk is essential for proper texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your kitchen. With its creamy coconut base, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, it’s a comforting yet exciting meal perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a restaurant-quality soup that is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!