Thai Basil Chicken Soup

Name: Thai Basil Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red chili, sliced; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves; 2 tablespoons lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Bowl Recipes

I absolutely love how comforting and versatile this Thai Basil Chicken Soup is. The fragrant aroma of basil combined with tender chicken pieces creates a dish that not only warms the body but also brightens the spirit. We often whip it up when we're in need of something nourishing, and the balance of flavors from the garlic, chili, and lime zest makes every spoonful delightful. What I appreciate most is how effortlessly it comes together, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:50:28.041Z

When I first discovered this Thai Basil Chicken Soup recipe, I was captivated by the depth of flavor that came from such simple ingredients. I played around with the proportions and discovered that using fresh basil at the end really elevates the experience. It’s a dish that satisfies my cravings while also being a burst of freshness in each bite.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving. This minor adjustment brings the whole dish to life, giving it a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the chicken. It’s small tweaks like this that make the most significant impact!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic basil infuses each bite with freshness
Quick preparation and cooking time make it perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable heat level to suit your spice preference

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

In Thai Basil Chicken Soup, the combination of chicken broth and coconut milk serves as a rich foundation for the dish. The broth provides depth, while coconut milk adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness that balances the heat from the chili. Choosing a good-quality chicken broth is crucial; homemade is ideal, but if using store-bought, look for low-sodium options to control the salt content in the final dish.

The role of fresh Thai basil cannot be understated. Its distinct, slightly spicy scent elevates the soup, making it aromatic and vibrant. If Thai basil isn't available, you could substitute with regular basil or even mint for a different flavor profile. However, no substitution will perfectly replicate the unique taste that Thai basil provides, so it's worth seeking out if you want to stay true to the authentic flavors.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Timing is essential when preparing the soup, especially when cooking the chicken. If the chicken is sliced too thickly, it may not cook thoroughly in the simmering broth. Aim for uniformly thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly, typically within 10 minutes. Always check for doneness by cutting into a piece; it should be opaque with no pink inside.

When adding the lime juice at the end, be cautious not to overdo it. The acidity brightens the flavors, but too much can overpower the soup. Start with 2 tablespoons, taste, and adjust if necessary. The same goes for the seasoning; adding salt gradually allows you to achieve the perfect balance without overshadowing the subtle flavors of the chicken and herbs.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your soup irresistible.

Ingredients

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup coconut milk
1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red chili, sliced
1 tablespoon fish sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
2 tablespoons lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious and aromatic soup.

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, combine chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Cook the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken, garlic, and red chili to the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Add Seasoning

Stir in fish sauce and soy sauce to enhance the flavor. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Finish with Basil

Just before serving, add the fresh basil leaves and lime juice. Stir to combine and remove from heat.

Your soup is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot.

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, add more coconut milk. Feel free to adjust the level of chili based on your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Thai Basil Chicken Soup can be served as a light meal or as part of a larger spread with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles on the side. The rice can help absorb the delicious broth and adds a satisfying texture to the meal. I often like to serve it with a sprinkle of scallions or a wedge of lime for extra brightness and flavor.

For those who enjoy added crunch, top the soup with freshly sliced red chili or even crushed peanuts for a textural contrast. A handful of fresh bean sprouts can also be a refreshing addition, providing extra crunch and enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this soup stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, the fresh basil will wilt over time, so it's best to add it fresh only when serving. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, but avoid boiling as this can change the texture of the coconut milk.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup without the basil. It lasts well in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, then add fresh basil and lime juice just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be a quick alternative, but fresh chicken offers better texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy can be added for more nutrition.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is completely gluten-free.