SOOTHING TOM KHA GAI COCONUT CHICKEN SOUP
Soothing tom kha gai coconut chicken soup is a beautifully balanced soup known for its comforting creaminess, fragrant aromatics and subtle heat. It’s made by simmering tender chicken in a base of rich coconut milk infused with chopped lemongrass and fresh ginger. A hint of lime juice adds brightness, while earthy mushrooms provide texture and body. Traditionally enjoyed throughout Thailand, this tom kha gai soup is healing and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings or light lunches. The single-serving format allows you to enjoy it fresh and is simple to prepare in just one pot. The signature blend of tangy, savoury and sweet flavours makes this dish one of the most popular Thai soups worldwide. Elegant enough for guests and easy for weekday cooking, this sooting tom kha gai coconut chicken soup brings authentic Southeast Asian taste to your table in under 20 minutes.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Side, Entrée, Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Thai
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Dairy-Free
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Soothing Tom Kha Gai Coconut Chicken Soup:
- 35 grams | 1.23 ounces | ¼ cup chicken, diced
- 120 millilitres | 4.06 fluid ounces | ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 gram | 0.04 ounces | ½ teaspoon lemongrass, chopped
- 0.5 grams | 0.02 ounces | ¼ teaspoon grated ginger
- 2.5 millilitres | 0.08 fluid ounces | ½ teaspoon lime juice
- 20 grams | 0.71 ounces | ¼ cup mushrooms, sliced
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 226.20 kilocalories
- Protein: 7.64 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9.46 grams
- Sugars: 2.75 grams
- Fibre: 0.49 grams
- Fat: 26.45 grams
- Saturated Fat: 25.17 grams
- Sodium: 182.50 milligrams
- Calcium: 22.35 milligrams
- Iron: 0.92 milligrams
- Potassium: 354.60 milligrams
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Soothing Tom Kha Gai Coconut Chicken Soup:
- Prepare the Aromatics: Finely chop the lemongrass and grate the ginger. Clean and slice the mushrooms. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat the Coconut Milk: In a small saucepan, add the coconut milk and place over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally.
- Add Lemongrass and Ginger: Stir in the chopped lemongrass and grated ginger. Let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to infuse the milk with aromatic flavour.
- Cook The Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 to 6 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until tender.
- Season The Soup: Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Serve Hot: Pour into a bowl and enjoy immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or extra lime if preferred.
PREPARATION TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
Here is a list of ingredients for Soothing Tom Kha Gai Coconut Chicken Soup:
- Use Fresh Lemongrass: It imparts the most authentic citrusy aroma, which bruises the stalk before chopping for extra flavour.
- Don’t Boil The Coconut Milk: Keep the heat low to avoid curdling or separation.
- Slice Chicken Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and evenly in the simmering broth.
- Adjust To Taste: Add more lime juice for tanginess or a pinch of sugar to round out the flavour.
- Strain If Desired: For a smoother finish, strain out lemongrass bits before serving.
VARIATIONS
- Make It Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth or extra coconut milk as the base.
- Add Heat: Include sliced Thai chillies or a dab of chilli paste for extra spiciness.
- Boost With Broth: Add a few tablespoons of chicken broth for a thinner and more traditional soup base.
- Mushroom Options: Use straw mushrooms, oyster mushrooms or shiitake for deeper umami.
- Add Fish Sauce: Mix in ½ teaspoon of fish sauce with the lime juice for added umami.
- Creamier Version: Add a splash of coconut cream for a more decadent soup.
- Serve With Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine rice or pour over rice for a hearty meal.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes or bok choy at the end for added nutrients.