Mama B's Thai Chicken Soup

This comforting soup is bursting with vibrant flavors and a hint of spice, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a cozy meal. It's easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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TIME45 min

SERVINGS4

RATING4.7 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

10 cups chicken stock 2 (5 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced ½ cup shiitake mushrooms 3 red chile peppers, chopped 8 kaffir lime leaves 2 stalks lemongrass, chopped 2 (14 ounce) cans coconut milk ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped 5 tablespoons fish sauce 3 (1 inch) pieces galangal, peeled and chopped 4 tablespoons lime juice 6 green onions, sliced 1 tablespoon chopped Thai basil 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by pouring the chicken stock into a large pot and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the chicken, mushrooms, chile peppers, lime leaves, and lemongrass. Let everything cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear, which should take about 10 minutes. Then, turn the heat down to medium and stir in the coconut milk, bell peppers, fish sauce, and galangal. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes before lowering the heat to low and adding the lime juice. Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some chopped green onions, basil, and cilantro on top for a fresh finish.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use fresh herbs like cilantro and lime leaves for the best aroma and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; add it towards the end to keep it tender.
- Adjust the chili level gradually to suit your heat preference.

Why you’ll love it

This soup is a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors that warm you up from the inside out. It’s both comforting and light, making it great for any time of year. Plus, it’s packed with fresh ingredients that boost nutrition and taste.

Serving ideas

Serve the soup hot with a side of jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up the broth. Garnish with extra lime wedges and fresh herbs to brighten the flavors. A simple cucumber salad can add a refreshing contrast.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the delicate flavors. Avoid freezing if possible, as the texture of the herbs and chicken may change.