Thai Basil Chicken Soup

Name: Thai Basil Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 pound chicken breast, sliced thinly; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 cup holy basil leaves; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 teaspoon lime juice; Chili flakes to taste

Highlighted under: Culture Inspired Recipes

I love making Thai Basil Chicken Soup because it's a warm, nourishing dish that comforts the soul. This recipe combines tender chicken with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a deliciously fragrant broth that's loaded with flavor. We often serve it with jasmine rice or fresh vegetables to enhance the meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this soup brings the taste of Thailand directly to my kitchen in just 30 minutes.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:22:28.166Z

Creating this Thai Basil Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, especially when I notice the fragrance of garlic and basil filling my kitchen. I've learned that using fresh Thai basil truly elevates the dish, providing that unique flavor that cannot be substituted. Each time I make it, I'm reminded of the vibrant flavors that define Thai cuisine.

After experimenting with different broth types, I discovered that a simple chicken broth, made from scratch or store-bought, works wonders. The key is to let the herbs infuse, allowing the spices to meld together into a beautiful symphony of taste and warmth.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic flavors that transport you to Thailand with every spoonful
Fresh herbs create a bright and vibrant finish
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy nights

      

Gathering Fresh Ingredients

The key to an authentic Thai Basil Chicken Soup lies in using the freshest ingredients available. Choosing high-quality chicken breast ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy during cooking. When selecting basil, look for vibrant, dark green leaves with a strong aroma, as this will elevate the soup's flavor significantly. If you're unable to find holy basil, regular basil can suffice in a pinch, but it won't quite replicate the unique flavor profile that holy basil brings to the dish.

Don't skip on sourcing fresh chili flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat; they not only enhance the soup's flavor but also add a lovely color contrast. Also, consider having all the ingredients measured and prepped before you begin cooking—this mise en place technique helps in maintaining a smooth cooking process, especially when making quick dishes like this.

Cooking Techniques for Depth of Flavor

When sautéing the garlic and onion, ensure that you don't cook them over high heat; medium heat allows the flavors to develop without burning. The goal is to achieve a fragrant, translucent onion that forms a flavorful base for your soup. A golden tint before adding the chicken can signal that you've built a strong flavor foundation.

As you add the broth and seasonings, remember to taste the broth before adjusting the seasoning levels. The soy sauce and fish sauce can vary in saltiness based on the brand, so starting with less and adding more as needed is a safer approach. This way, you can customize it to your palate and avoid an overly salty soup.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable soup:

Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken Soup

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, sliced
1 pound chicken breast, sliced thinly
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup holy basil leaves
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 teaspoon lime juice
Chili flakes to taste

Take the time to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Slice the chicken, onion, and red bell pepper, and mince the garlic. This preparation will help in cooking quickly and efficiently.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Finish with Basil and Peppers

Add the sliced bell pepper and holy basil leaves to the soup. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the basil is wilted and the pepper is slightly tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Stir in lime juice and chili flakes to taste. Serve hot, paired with rice if desired, and enjoy the aromatic Thai experience!

For an extra kick, add extra chili flakes when serving!

Pro Tips

Using fresh Thai basil makes a significant difference in flavor. If unavailable, regular basil can be used, but the taste will change.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day! When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low to medium heat to prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To do this, cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve this soup over a bed of jasmine rice, which complements the soup's flavors wonderfully. Alternatively, use it as a broth for a noodle dish by adding rice noodles along with the vegetables towards the end of cooking. This addition makes the soup even heartier and satisfying.

If you're looking to add more nutrition, consider incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables like bok choy or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking. They not only add color and crunch but also enhance the soup’s nutrients without overpowering the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Thai basil chicken soup pairs great with jasmine rice, crusty bread, or even crispy spring rolls!