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Herbal Chicken Soup with Ginger and Lemongrass

This fragrant chicken soup combines shredded cooked chicken with fresh ginger, lemongrass, and lime for a bright, herbal flavor. The soup is simmered gently to develop a clear, flavorful broth with tender chicken, finished with fresh cilantro and lime for a lively, comforting dish. Its light, inviting appearance makes it perfect for chilly days or quick, nourishing meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger sliced thin
  • 1 stalk lemongrass bruised to release flavor
  • 8 cups chicken broth preferably homemade
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken leftovers or poached
  • 1 lime lime juiced, divided
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
  • to taste salt

Equipment

  • 4-quart pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in your 4-quart pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes, until you hear gentle sizzling and see the onions turn clear.
  2. Add minced garlic, sliced ginger, and bruised lemongrass stalk to the pot. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and aromatic, filling your kitchen with a bright, spicy aroma.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to develop a clear, fragrant profile.
  4. Remove and discard the bruised lemongrass stalk. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, then squeeze in half of the lime juice, stirring gently to combine. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes to warm the chicken through.
  5. Taste the soup and add a pinch of salt or more lime juice if needed, adjusting to your preference for brightness and seasoning.
  6. Finish by adding chopped cilantro and squeezing the remaining lime juice over the soup. Give it a gentle stir, and your fragrant, herbal chicken soup is ready to serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, garnish with additional cilantro or lime slices. Ensure to add lime juice at the end to keep its bright flavor intact.