Amazing Thai Coconut Chicken Soup 25 Min

Name: Amazing Thai Coconut Chicken Soup 25 Min
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 stalks of lemongrass (or 2 tablespoons lemongrass paste); Fresh cilantro for garnish

by Fenna Saul

September 20, 2025

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Thai Coconut Chicken Soup has a way of just warming you from the inside out, doesn’t it? I remember the first time I tried authentic Tom Kha Gai soup; the rich, creamy coconut milk broth, the tender chicken, and that unmistakable aroma of lemongrass and ginger just transported me. It felt so luxurious, yet surprisingly simple. Now, this easy Thai coconut chicken soup has become my go-to for a quick, comforting weeknight meal that tastes like it came straight from a Thai restaurant. The aroma alone is enough to make my whole house feel cozy. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: It boasts a rich, creamy coconut milk base with aromatic Thai spices that create a truly satisfying taste.
Quick Prep Time: You can have this delicious soup on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Options: It’s naturally gluten-free and packed with lean protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like chicken broth and coconut milk, this Thai chicken coconut soup is affordable to make.
Family Favorite: The mild, comforting flavors are usually a hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Authentic Taste: It delivers the genuine flavors of a classic Thai chicken coconut soup.
Comforting Meal: Perfect for a cozy dinner or a light lunch, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients for Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Thai chicken coconut soup:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk – this is key for that luscious, creamy texture
4 cups chicken broth – low sodium is great so you can control the salt
2 stalks fresh lemongrass, or 2 tablespoons lemongrass paste – it adds that signature bright, citrusy aroma
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish – it adds a burst of freshness
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon lime juice for a touch of acidity, or sliced chilies for heat

How to Make Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Let’s get this delicious Thai chicken coconut soup simmering! It’s surprisingly straightforward and the aroma that fills your kitchen is just divine.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your boneless, skinless chicken breast into thin, bite-sized strips. Aim for pieces that will cook quickly and evenly in the broth.
Step 2: Heat the Broth
Pour the 4 cups of chicken broth into a medium-sized pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. You’ll start to see those lovely little bubbles forming around the edges.
Step 3: Add Lemongrass
If you’re using fresh lemongrass stalks, give them a good bruise with the back of a knife. This helps release their fragrant oils. Toss the bruised stalks into the simmering broth. If you’re using lemongrass paste, simply stir it in now.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the prepared chicken strips to the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Step 5: Pour in Coconut Milk
Now for the magic! Pour in the 1 can (14 oz) of full-fat coconut milk. Stir it gently into the soup. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully into a rich, creamy base. This step truly transforms it into a delightful Coconut chicken curry soup Thai style.
Step 6: Season to Perfection
Taste your Thai chicken coconut soup. Add salt and pepper as needed. For an extra zing, a splash of lime juice or a dash of fish sauce can be wonderful. If you like it a bit spicy, this is also a great time to add some sliced chilies.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the lemongrass stalks from the pot. Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls. Top generously with fresh, chopped cilantro for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness!

Amazing Thai Coconut Chicken Soup 25 Min - Thai Coconut Chicken Soup - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Want to elevate your soup game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up:

Always use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest, richest base. Light coconut milk can make the soup watery.
Don’t overcook the chicken! It cooks quickly in the simmering broth, and overcooking will make it tough.
Bruise the lemongrass stalks well to maximize their aromatic flavor, or use good quality lemongrass paste.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. A little lime juice or fish sauce can really make the flavors pop.

What’s the secret to perfect Thai Coconut Chicken Soup?

The real secret to an authentic Thai coconut chicken soup lies in balancing the flavors. It’s that delicate dance between creamy coconut milk, fragrant lemongrass, a hint of acidity from lime, and a touch of saltiness, often from fish sauce. Getting this balance right makes all the difference. For more insights into flavor balancing, you might find resources on flavor building blocks helpful.

Can I make Thai Coconut Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and even cook the chicken and broth mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the broth mixture and add the coconut milk. This makes it a truly quick Thai coconut chicken soup option for busy days. Check out other quick meal ideas on our recipes page.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Thai Coconut Chicken Soup?

A common pitfall is using low-fat coconut milk, which results in a less creamy soup. Also, be mindful of your heat! If you’re aiming for a milder soup, skip the chilies. For a genuinely spicy coconut chicken soup Thai style, add fresh chilies or a dash of sriracha at the end. If you’re interested in weight loss recipes, you might explore our Zepbound weight loss recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

This comforting soup is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. For a truly satisfying meal, I love serving this chicken and coconut milk soup Thai style alongside some fluffy jasmine rice. The rice is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious, creamy broth.

Another fantastic option is to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, a simple side salad with a ginger-sesame dressing complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly. It’s a delightful way to round out the meal!

Amazing Thai Coconut Chicken Soup 25 Min - Thai Coconut Chicken Soup - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of this delightful soup:

Calories: 360 kcal
Fat: 20g
Protein: 30g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Thai chicken soup

Leftovers of this delicious Thai chicken coconut soup are fantastic, and storing them properly ensures you can enjoy them later. First, let the soup cool down at room temperature for about an hour. Don’t leave it out for too long, though, as food safety is important!

Once cooled, transfer the soup into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to omit the coconut milk before freezing and add it back when reheating for the best texture. For more storage tips, consider our turkey meatloaf recipe which includes storage advice.

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If you froze it without the coconut milk, stir it in during the last few minutes of reheating. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

What is Thai coconut chicken soup?

Thai coconut chicken soup, often known as Tom Kha Gai, is a classic Thai dish featuring a flavorful broth made from coconut milk, chicken broth, and aromatic ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. It’s celebrated for its creamy texture and a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.

Why is Thai coconut chicken soup popular?

Its popularity stems from its comforting nature, rich yet balanced flavor profile, and its relatively quick preparation time. It’s a dish that feels both exotic and familiar, offering a taste of Thailand that’s both nourishing and incredibly satisfying. Many find it to be a healthy and delicious option for any meal. You can find more delicious recipes like this on our recipes page.

Can I add vegetables to my Thai coconut chicken soup?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the nutrition and texture of your soup. Mushrooms, baby corn, bell peppers, and spinach are all excellent choices. Simply add firmer vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers a few minutes before the chicken, and leafy greens like spinach right at the end. For a healthy side, try our crispy roasted cauliflower.

How do I make this soup spicier?

To make your soup spicier, you can add sliced fresh Thai chilies or red chilies directly into the soup along with the chicken, or stir in a spoonful of chili paste or sriracha at the end. Adjust the amount based on your personal heat preference for a truly spicy coconut chicken soup Thai style.

Variations of Thai Coconut Chicken Soup You Can Try

This versatile soup is fantastic as is, but there are so many ways to customize it! Here are a few ideas to make your Thai coconut chicken soup your own:

Healthy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup: For a lighter version, use low-sodium chicken broth and a can of light coconut milk. You can also add a generous amount of vegetables like spinach, broccoli florets, or snap peas for extra nutrients and fiber.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Swap the chicken for firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, or add chickpeas for protein. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spicy Seafood Twist: Replace the chicken with shrimp or firm white fish like cod. Add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking as they cook much faster than chicken.
Authentic Gai Tom Kha Recipe Flavor: If you want to get closer to a truly authentic Gai Tom Kha recipe, look for kaffir lime leaves to add with the lemongrass for an even more intense citrus aroma. A bit of galangal, thinly sliced, also adds a unique peppery depth. You might also enjoy our Korean BBQ Meatballs for another flavorful option.