Chinese Chicken Soup Recipe A Bowl Of Comfort And Traditional Ingredients

Every Chinese Chicken Soup bowl tells a story. Dive into China’s heart with each sip. A symphony of flavors dances in this age-old concoction. Tender chicken melds with aromatic herbs. Fresh vegetables bring vibrant colors and crunch. Each ingredient offers a healing touch. 

Ancient traditions whisper secrets of comfort and warmth. It’s more than just soup. It’s a connection to centuries of culinary heritage. Welcome a piece of China to your kitchen. Let this Chinese Chicken Soup nurture your soul. Dive in, and let the journey begin.

What Is Chinese Chicken Soup?

Chinese Chicken Soup is a traditional broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Originating from China, this soup combines tender chicken pieces with ingredients like goji berries, red dates, and ginger. Often considered a healing tonic, it’s praised for its restorative properties. The soup’s depth of flavor showcases China’s rich culinary heritage, with every sip transporting one to age-old family kitchens. A comforting embrace in a bowl, it’s a symbol of nourishment and warmth.

History Of Chinese Chicken Soup 

Chinese Chicken Soup traces its roots back to ancient China. For centuries, families have passed down recipes, each carrying unique twists and tales. Regarded as a medicinal tonic, the soup was believed to boost vitality and balance one’s chi (energy). Ingredients like goji berries, ginseng, and red dates were often added for their therapeutic benefits. Over time, regional variations emerged, yet the core essence remained: a nourishing broth embodying Chinese tradition, culture, and the age-old pursuit of wellness.

Interesting Facts About The Chinese Chicken Soup

• Medicinal Roots: Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to balance ‘yin’ and ‘yang’.
• Goji Berries: Often added to boost immune health and improve vision.
• Silkie Chicken Variation: A black-skinned chicken, believed to have superior health benefits.
• Soup for Seasons: Different ingredients are added based on seasons for optimal health.
• Herbal Infusion: Ginseng, astragalus, and dang shen are common herbs incorporated for vitality.
• Cultural Significance: Consumed during postpartum periods to aid mothers’ recovery.

What Makes The Chinese Chicken Soup Special?

• Deep Tradition: Rooted in centuries-old culinary practices and medicinal beliefs.
• Holistic Healing: More than just comfort food, it’s a therapeutic tonic for vitality.
• Diverse Ingredients: Incorporates unique additions like goji berries, ginseng, and red dates.
• Yin and Yang: Balances body energies, promoting overall wellness.
• Flavor Complexity: Slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring a rich and aromatic broth.
• Cultural Ritual: Often consumed during special occasions and transitional life periods.

Ingredient List 

Ingredient Tips 

• Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for a richer aroma and flavor.
• Turmeric: Freshly ground turmeric offers a deeper, earthier taste.
• Ginger: Choose firm ginger roots; the skin should snap when broken.
• Chile Paste: Adjust based on your spice tolerance; consider homemade for authenticity.
• Chicken: Opt for organic, free-range chicken for the best texture and flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Homemade broth enriches the soup’s depth.

Can You Vary Chinese Chicken Soup With Other Ingredients?

• Keto: Skip the sugar and ramen noodles. Add low-carb veggies like bok choy and mushrooms. Replace with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
• Paleo: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. Omit ramen noodles and use spiralized veggies or sweet potato noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free, or use tamari. Replace ramen with rice noodles or gluten-free alternatives.
• Whole30: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos. Omit sugar and noodles or use vegetable noodles.
• Vegetarian & Vegan: Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Ensure other ingredients like soy sauce are vegan-friendly.

Recipe Directions 

• Heat oil in a pot; add turmeric, ginger, and chile paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Add chicken, broth, sugar, soy sauce, and celery. Boil.
• Introduce noodles; cook for 3 minutes.
• Add lettuce. Remove from heat.
• Garnish with green onions and serve.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

• Protein Variations: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or shrimp for different flavors and textures.
• Vegetable Boost: Introduce bok choy, mushrooms, or baby spinach for added nutrients.
• Herbal Infusion: Add ginseng or astragalus for traditional medicinal benefits.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate star anise or Sichuan peppercorns for a tingling sensation.
• Noodle Alternatives: Substitute ramen with rice noodles, udon, or glass noodles.
• Toppings: Enhance with roasted sesame seeds, crispy garlic, or chili oil for an added crunch and flavor.

Scaling The Recipe 

• Quantities: Use simple multiplication or division for ingredient amounts based on desired servings. Double for twice the amount or halve for half.
• Cookware: Upscaling might require larger pots or multiple batches. Downscaling can use smaller vessels.
• Cooking Time: While ingredient quantities change, cooking times may not scale linearly. Monitor closely, especially when simmering.
• Consistency: Ensure the soup’s consistency remains the same. You might need to adjust broth or add water.
• Taste: As you scale, taste regularly. Spices and seasonings might require subtle adjustments.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Herbs: Fresh cilantro, parsley, basil, and mint provide color and aroma.
• Citrus: Lemon or lime wedges or zest add a burst of freshness.
• Seeds & Nuts: Toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or crushed peanuts offer crunch.
• Spices: Paprika, sumac, or freshly cracked pepper sprinkle color and heat.
• Vegetables: Thinly sliced green onions, bell peppers, or radishes lend crispness.

Can I Make Chinese Chicken Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

• Slow Cooker: Ideal for extracting deep flavors. Add all ingredients except noodles and lettuce into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, introduce the noodles. Stir in the lettuce just before serving to retain its freshness.
• Instant Pot: A quicker method. Use the sauté function to heat the oil and cook turmeric, ginger, and chile paste until fragrant. Add the remaining ingredients except noodles and lettuce. Seal and set to ‘Soup’ mode for 15 minutes. Quick release, then add noodles using the sauté function. Finally, mix in lettuce and serve.

 Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: It’s quick and ideal for impromptu cooking sessions.
• Consistency: Commercial broths usually have a consistent flavor.
• Variety: You can find low-sodium, organic, or specific dietary versions.
• Storage: Packaged broths have a longer shelf life.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor: Homemade offers depth and a richness store-bought versions might lack.
• Control: You dictate the salt content, ingredients, and overall flavor.
• Economical: Utilize leftover bones and vegetable scraps.
• Nutritional Value: Extract maximum nutrients without preservatives.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Chinese Chicken Soup?

• Meat/Fish: Replace chicken with turkey, duck, beef, pork, or seafood like shrimp and fish fillets.
• Pasta: Ramen noodles can be substituted with rice noodles, udon, soba, vermicelli, or even pasta like spaghetti for a fusion twist.
• Vegetables: The possibilities are vast. Incorporate bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, baby corn, snap peas, or water chestnuts for varied textures and flavors.

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe 

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: Organize and measure ingredients before starting.
• Freshness: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for vibrant flavors.
• Stock/Broth: A quality base, whether homemade or store-bought, is key.
• Blending: For smooth soups, ensure even chopping for uniform cooking.

Cooking Time Tips

• Low & Slow: Cooking on a low simmer extracts flavors without overcooking ingredients.
• Skim: Regularly skim off impurities or excess oil that rises.
• Taste: Regularly taste and adjust seasonings.
• Noodles/Pasta: Add them last to prevent overcooking.
• Rest: Let soups sit a while after cooking; flavors often deepen over time.

Nutritional Values 

Chinese Chicken Soup isn’t just a treat for the palate; it’s also nutritionally enriching. Packed with protein from the chicken, essential minerals from the broth, and vitamins from the vegetables, each serving offers a balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

A single serving of this soup might generally range between 250-400 calories, depending on the exact amounts and types of each ingredient used. To get an accurate count, it’s best to use a detailed nutritional database

Dietary Restrictions Of The Chinese Chicken Soup

• Meat-Based: Unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans due to chicken and chicken broth.
• Gluten: Ramen noodles typically contain gluten, making it unfit for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• Soy: The soy sauce can be problematic for those allergic to soy.
• Sugar: Diabetics or those on sugar-restrictive diets should take note.
• High Sodium: Due to soy sauce and broth, which can be of concern for those monitoring salt intake.

Health Benefits Of Chinese Chicken Soup

• Immunity Boost: Chicken broth is often believed to bolster the immune system, aiding in cold recovery.
• Digestion Aid: Ginger promotes healthy digestion and can alleviate gastrointestinal irritation.
• Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Nutrient-Rich: Chicken provides protein essential for muscle health, while veggies offer vitamins and minerals.
• Hydration: The broth helps in hydration, especially vital when sick.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Chinese Chicken Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium or unsalted chicken broth.
• Soy Sauce Alternative: Use low-sodium soy sauce, tamari (for gluten-free), or a soy sauce substitute like coconut aminos.
• Fresh Ingredients: Rely more on fresh herbs and aromatic vegetables (like ginger, garlic, and green onions) to enhance flavor without added salt.
• Homemade Chile Paste: Commercial pastes often contain salt. Making your own allows for control over sodium content.
• Limit Processed Add-ins: Avoid processed foods that might be stealthy sodium sources.

How Can I Make Chinese Chicken Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Omit Added Sugar: Simply leave out the added sugar, or reduce its quantity.
• Soy Sauce: Opt for naturally brewed versions without added sweeteners.
• Natural Sweeteners: Consider using a pinch of stevia or monk fruit for a subtle sweetness without the added sugar.
• Broth: Ensure the chicken broth you use doesn’t contain added sugars; some commercial versions might.
• Chile Paste: Use a homemade version or check the label for sugar-free options.
• Taste Balance: Amp up other flavors like ginger, garlic, or fresh herbs to compensate for reduced sweetness.

How To Serve The Chinese Chicken Soup At Its Best?

• Temperature: Ensure it’s piping hot, but not scalding. Warmth releases the aroma and flavors.
• Bowl Selection: Use deep, wide bowls to accommodate both broth and ingredients comfortably.
• Garnishing: Freshly sprinkle chopped green onions, and perhaps a few cilantro leaves or sesame seeds for an added touch.
• Accompaniments: Offer side dishes like steamed dumplings or spring rolls. Pair with jasmine or oolong tea.
• Layering: Place the meat and veggies at the bowl’s base, pour the broth over, ensuring an even distribution.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Chinese Chicken Soup

• Spring Rolls: Crispy and light, they offer a contrasting texture.
• Steamed Dumplings: Filled with vegetables or meat, these are comforting and flavorful.
• Bao Buns: Fluffy steamed buns, either plain or filled, add a soft texture.
• Stir-Fried Greens: Bok choy or Chinese broccoli sautéed with garlic enhances the meal’s nutrition.
• Rice: Plain steamed rice or lightly seasoned fried rice can absorb the soup’s richness.
• Pickled Vegetables: They provide a tangy contrast to the soup’s warmth.

How Long Can We Store The Chinese Chicken Soup?

• Cooling: Let the soup cool to room temperature within two hours of cooking.
• Refrigeration: Once cooled, transfer the soup to airtight containers. It will stay good in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It’s best consumed within 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Always reheat thoroughly until steaming hot. Avoid multiple reheating cycles.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

• Flavor Development: Soups often taste better the next day as flavors meld and deepen.
• Cooling: After cooking, cool quickly to room temperature.
• Storage: Refrigerate in airtight containers.
• Noodles Caution: If your soup contains noodles, consider adding them fresh when reheating to avoid sogginess.
• Reheat Safely: Ensure the soup is heated thoroughly before serving.
• Freezing Option: For longer storage, freeze portions and defrost as needed.

What Can We Do With Leftovers of Chinese Chicken Soup Recipe?

• Stir-fry Base: Use the chicken and veggies as a starter for a quick stir-fry. Add more vegetables or protein as desired.
• Rice Topping: Pour reheated soup over steamed rice for a flavorful and hearty bowl.
• Fried Rice Ingredient: Incorporate chicken pieces and vegetables into fried rice.
• Soup Remix: Add new ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, or baby spinach for a refreshed version.
• Chicken Salad: Shred the chicken, mix with veggies, and toss in a light sauce or dressing.
• Asian Tacos: Use the chicken as a filling for tacos, adding shredded lettuce and a drizzle of sesame oil.

Special Tools And Equipment Needed

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for simmering the soup and ensuring even heat distribution.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For precise cuts of chicken, vegetables, and herbs.
• Cutting Board: Preferably two: one for meats and another for vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.
• Strainer: Useful if you’re making broth from scratch or need to filter out solid ingredients.
• Ladle: To serve soup neatly and uniformly.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Ensuring correct ingredient quantities.
• Garlic Press or Grater: For extracting fresh ginger juice or finely mincing garlic.
• Tongs: Helpful for handling chicken pieces while cooking or serving.
• Instant-read Thermometer: Ensures safe temperatures, especially when reheating.
• Heat-Resistant Spatula: Useful for stirring and ensuring ingredients don’t stick to the pot.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Pieces For This Soup?

Certainly. Bone-in chicken pieces can lend a deeper flavor to the broth. However, be sure to remove the bones before serving. Additionally, the cooking time may vary slightly due to the bone’s presence.

Is There An Alternative To Ramen Noodles In This Recipe?

Indeed, various noodle types can substitute for ramen. You might consider rice noodles, udon, or even whole wheat spaghetti as alternatives. The key is to ensure they’re cooked appropriately for the best texture.

What If I Don’t Have Fresh Ginger On Hand?

While fresh ginger provides a distinct flavor, in its absence, you can use ginger powder. However, be cautious with the quantity, as its concentrated nature might overpower other flavors.

How Do I Adjust The Soup’s Spice Level?

The spice intensity primarily comes from the chile paste. To reduce heat, simply decrease its amount or opt for a milder version. Conversely, for more heat, you can increase the chile paste quantity or add fresh chopped chilies.

Can I Incorporate Other Traditional Chinese Ingredients Into This Soup?

Absolutely. Chinese cuisine boasts a wide range of ingredients. You might consider adding items like shitake mushrooms, water chestnuts, or baby corn. Just ensure that these additions complement the soup’s core flavors and textures.

Chinese Chicken Soup Recipe A Bowl Of Comfort And Traditional Ingredients

0 from 0 votes

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

3

hours 

15

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Savor the warmth and richness of this Chicken Gumbo Soup. Brimming with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, every spoonful promises a symphony of flavors, making it a delightful treat for any meal.

Ingredients

• Sesame Oil

• Ground Turmeric

• Chopped Fresh Ginger Root

• Chile Paste

• Chopped Cooked Chicken Breasta

• Chicken Broth

• Sugar

• Soy Sauce

• Chopped Celery

• Ramen Noodles (package)

• Shredded Lettuce

• Chopped Green Onion

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Preparation Steps
  Gather all ingredients. Chop the fresh ginger root, cooked chicken breast, celery, lettuce, and green onion.
• Cooking
  In a large pot, pour the sesame oil and place it over medium heat.
  Once the oil is hot, introduce turmeric, ginger, and chile paste.
  Sauté the mixture until fragrant, typically taking about 1 to 2 minutes.
  Gently stir in the chopped chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated with the fragrant oil.
  Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the sugar, soy sauce, and celery pieces. Stir well.
• Blending
  Allow the soup to reach a boiling point. As it begins to boil, add in the ramen noodles.
  Let the noodles cook for approximately 3 minutes, ensuring they’re tender but not overly soft.
• Final Touches
  Stir in the shredded lettuce, ensuring it wilts slightly from the soup’s heat.
  Immediately remove the pot from the heat source to prevent overcooking the lettuce.
• Serving
  Pour the soup into individual bowls.
  Generously garnish each serving with freshly chopped green onions.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/4rD6UwTNoRo?si=QQUQkevLpclakJrJ

Notes

• For an authentic touch, consider using traditional Chinese chicken stock, available at Asian grocery stores.
• Be cautious with chile paste if you’re sensitive to spice; adjust according to your heat preference.
• If storing for later use, it’s best to keep the noodles separate to avoid them becoming too soft.
• Fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil can add an extra layer of flavor upon serving.
• Opting for low-sodium soy sauce can help control the salt content.
• The soup’s consistency can be adjusted by adding more broth for a lighter soup or reducing it for a more concentrated flavor.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

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