This Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup is warm, cozy, and full of flavor! With tender chicken, fresh noodles, spicy ginger, and zesty garlic, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
You can easily whip this up on a chilly day. I love how the soup warms you from the inside out. Just add some greens on top for an extra pop! It’s comfort food at its best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetable Oil: This is used for sautéing garlic and ginger. You can substitute with olive oil if you prefer, but it might have a slightly different flavor.
Garlic and Ginger: These are the stars of the soup! Fresh is best, but you can use garlic powder and ground ginger in a pinch. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of each if you’re in a hurry.
Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth is essential for flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version or make your own by simmering chicken parts with water and seasoning.
Shredded Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its convenience. If you’re vegetarian, consider using tofu or skip it altogether and add more veggies!
Noodles: Rice noodles work well, but any thin noodle will do. You could also use zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.
Greens: Spinach and bok choy are my go-tos, but kale or Swiss chard would be delicious too. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook quickly.
How Do You Get the Most Flavor When Sautéing Garlic and Ginger?
Sautéing garlic and ginger properly is key to the flavor in this soup. You want to soften them and release their oils, but not burn them.
- Always heat your oil on medium heat. This helps to evenly cook the garlic and ginger.
- Add them to the pot and watch closely. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. This ensures a sweet and aromatic base for your soup.
What’s the Best Way to Adjust the Flavor of Your Soup?
After you add the broth and chicken, taste your soup! This is the time to season appropriately.
- If it needs depth, add more soy sauce or fish sauce.
- For brightness, a splash of lime juice or more fresh herbs will do wonders.
- Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to match your taste!
These tips and insights will help you create a comforting bowl of Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup that’s full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 2 cups cooked rice noodles or thin egg noodles
- 3 scallions (green onions), chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach or bok choy, chopped
- 1-2 red chilies, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or fish sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking, totaling about 30-35 minutes. It’s quick to make and incredibly comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
First, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they’re fragrant but not browned. This will create a delicious base for your soup.
2. Prepare the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. This is where the warm, comforting magic begins!
3. Add the Chicken:
Add the shredded cooked chicken to the broth. Let it warm through for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up all the yummy flavors from the broth.
4. Season the Soup:
Stir in the soy sauce or fish sauce, adding depth to the flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed!
5. Incorporate the Noodles:
Now, add the cooked noodles to the pot and heat them through for 1-2 minutes. Make sure they’re nice and warm, ready to soak up the broth.
6. Add the Greens:
It’s time to toss in the chopped scallions and your choice of greens (spinach or bok choy). Simmer for another minute until the greens wilt down beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the comforting soup into bowls. Garnish with sliced red chilies and chopped cilantro or parsley to add a fresh touch. It’s looking good already!
8. Add a Splash of Lime:
For an extra zing, serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup. This brightens up the flavors, making it truly delightful!
This ginger garlic chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need some cozy nourishment!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great. Just shred it and add it directly to the broth to warm through. It’s a fantastic way to use leftovers!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or additional veggies, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can still keep all the delicious flavors with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to refresh the soup, as noodles can soak up the liquid.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a tablespoon of miso paste into the broth. Fresh herbs like basil or Thai basil can also add a delicious twist to the soup!
