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Thai Chicken Soup with Lime and Herbs

This vibrant Thai chicken soup combines tender shredded chicken with fresh herbs, fiery chili paste, and bright lime to create a bold, comforting dish. The soup is simmered gently to develop layers of flavor, resulting in a fragrant, clear broth topped with lively herbs and a squeeze of citrus. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that balances spice, freshness, and warmth in every bowl.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk (optional) for creaminess
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion sliced
  • 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs poached or shredded
  • 1 tablespoon spicy chili paste adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 lime fresh lime zest and juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • 1/2 cup Thai basil chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Chop the onion into thin slices and mince the garlic. Prepare the chicken by poaching or shredding cooked chicken breasts or thighs.
  2. Heat the large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. You should hear a gentle sizzle and see the onions turn translucent.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. If using, stir in the coconut milk to add richness, and let it warm through for about 2 minutes.
  4. Add the spicy chili paste and fish sauce to the simmering broth, stirring well to combine. Adjust the heat to keep a gentle simmer—avoid boiling vigorously to keep the chicken tender.
  5. Drop in the shredded or sliced cooked chicken into the broth, allowing it to warm and soak up the flavors for about 5 minutes. The broth should turn fragrant and slightly spicy.
  6. Zest the lime directly into the broth for a bright aroma, then squeeze in the lime juice to add a zesty punch. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Chop the fresh cilantro and Thai basil, preparing to garnish the soup just before serving. These herbs will add vibrant freshness and aroma.
  8. Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished generously with chopped cilantro and Thai basil. Add a wedge of lime on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
  9. Enjoy your fragrant, bold Thai chicken soup — a comforting bowl full of bright flavors and fiery warmth.

Notes

Adjust the chili paste to your preferred spice level. For a vegetarian version, swap chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth. Be mindful not to boil the broth vigorously to keep the chicken tender and flavors balanced.