Vietnamese chicken soup

Vietnamese chicken soup is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken and rice noodles in a fragrant broth, enhanced by garlic, ginger, and herbs. It's a quick and satisfying meal that's perfect for any time of the year.

15 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 oz rice noodles
8 oz chicken breasts
1 tbsp peanut oil
2 garlic cloves
2 tsp ginger
1/4 tsp red pepper (spice)
4 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp coriander leaves
2 tbsp onion
1/2 tbsp basil

Vietnamese Chicken Soup is a delightful and quick-to-make dish that blends the aromatic flavors of Vietnam into a comforting bowl of warmth. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. With its fresh and fragrant ingredients, this soup will surely become a favorite in your household.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice Noodles:
- Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil over medium-high heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken strips and cook until they are no longer pink in the center (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the red pepper flakes and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.

4. Make the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Add the fish sauce and stir to combine.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pot.
- Add the cooked rice noodles, thinly sliced onion, and half of the chopped coriander leaves to the soup.

6. Simmer and Season:
- Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.

7. Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish each bowl with the remaining chopped coriander and the chopped basil.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve the Vietnamese chicken soup hot and enjoy!

Vietnamese Chicken Soup is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a nourishing and delightful dish. By following these tips and steps, you can create a delicious meal that brings the exotic flavors of Vietnam right to your kitchen. Enjoy this heartwarming soup on a cold day or any time you crave something comforting and flavorsome.

Vietnamese chicken soup FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the chicken in the soup?

The chicken should be cooked in the pot for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is no longer pink in the center.

What type of rice noodles should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of rice noodles suitable for soups, such as rice vermicelli or flat rice noodles. Be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking.

Can I make the soup ahead of time and store it?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for fish sauce in this recipe?

If you need a substitute for fish sauce, you can use soy sauce or a splash of vinegar with a pinch of salt, but note that the flavor will differ slightly.

How can I tell when the soup is done simmering?

The soup is ready when it has simmered for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can taste it to see if it meets your flavor preferences.

Tips:

- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.

- Soak the rice noodles in warm water before cooking to ensure they are tender.

- Don't skip the fish sauce, as it adds an essential umami flavor to the soup.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Garnish with additional fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra burst of freshness.

- Cook the chicken until it is just done to avoid dryness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 130kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 4.31g
Fiber 0.33g
Sugar 1.09g
Fat 4.93g

Vietnamese chicken soup