Thai Basil Chicken Soup

Name: Thai Basil Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2-3 Thai bird chilies, sliced; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; Optional: sliced mushrooms or bok choy

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love how vibrant and fragrant a good Thai basil chicken soup can be. The combination of fresh herbs and tender chicken creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. This recipe balances savory, spicy, and herbal notes perfectly, making it a fantastic quick meal option. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a bowl of deliciousness in no time. It's one of those dishes that brings me joy and satisfaction, perfect for a cozy night in or when I need a pick-me-up.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:02:28.387Z

When I first tried Thai basil chicken soup at a street market in Thailand, I was captivated by its flavor complexity. I carefully observed the vendor's technique, taking notes on how they balanced the heat of chilies with the sweetness of basil. I knew I had to replicate it at home. My secret? Using a rich chicken broth infused with fresh herbs right from my garden, which elevates the dish significantly.

After several attempts, I figured out that slicing the chicken breast thinly helps it cook quickly while absorbing all the delicious flavors. The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility; I often add veggies like mushrooms or bok choy for an extra crunch. It's been my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests with something that's both delicious and easy to make.

        Why You'll Love This Soup
        Aromatic Thai basil infuses every bite with unique flavor
Quick and healthy meal ready in just 30 minutes
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins
Perfectly spicy, warming up any chilly evening

      

The Role of Thai Basil

Thai basil is the star ingredient in this soup, contributing its unique anise-like flavor that sets this dish apart from other chicken soups. Unlike sweet basil, Thai basil has a spicier and more aromatic profile, as well as purple stems and serrated leaves. When added just before serving, the fresh leaves retain their vibrant taste and deeply enhance the overall flavor of the soup. If you can't find Thai basil, consider using Vietnamese coriander or even regular basil, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ significantly.

To maximize the flavor of the Thai basil, be sure to wash and dry the leaves thoroughly before using them in the soup. This simple step helps maintain their aromatic qualities. As the leaves wilt in the hot broth, they release essential oils that blend beautifully with the savory chicken and broth, creating an incredibly fragrant dish. Remember, the quality of your basil greatly influences the soup's overall taste, so opt for fresh leaves whenever possible.

Customizing Your Bowl

This Thai basil chicken soup is incredibly versatile and can easily be customized to suit your tastes or what's available in your pantry. For a heartier version, consider adding sliced mushrooms, bok choy, or even zucchini for additional textures and nutrients. These vegetables not only add flavor but also contribute different colors, making the dish visually appealing. Just be sure to add the veggies at the same time as the broth to ensure they cook through adequately without becoming mushy.

If you're looking to adjust the heat, the number of Thai bird chilies can be modified based on your preference. Remember, the seeds inside the chilies contain most of the heat, so if you prefer a milder soup, remove the seeds before slicing. Conversely, if you want an extra kick, leave some seeds in or consider adding a splash of chili oil at the end for a flavor boost without compromising the integrity of the soup's broth.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 Thai bird chilies, sliced
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
Optional: sliced mushrooms or bok choy

Gather these ingredients to make your flavorful soup!

Instructions

Saute the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Cook the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken to the pot, stirring frequently until the chicken is cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).

Build the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Finish with Basil

Stir in the Thai basil leaves just before serving to keep their vibrant flavor.

Enjoy your delicious and fragrant Thai basil chicken soup!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with lime wedges or chopped green onions before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning to make this soup ahead of time, it's best to store the components separately. Cook the chicken and broth mixture first, allow it to cool, and then refrigerate it. The Thai basil should be added just before serving to maintain its freshness. Properly stored in an airtight container, the soup base will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator, and you can freeze it for about a month, just remember to leave out the basil until you are ready to serve.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium-low heat to preserve the delicate flavors. Avoid boiling the reheated soup to prevent the chicken from becoming tough. If you find the soup too thick after reheating, simply add a bit of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is delightful served alone, but pairing it with jasmine rice or rice noodles can elevate the meal further and provide a satisfying, filling component. If you decide to serve it with noodles, prepare them separately according to package instructions and add them directly to bowls before ladling the hot soup over them. This adds depth to each bite as the flavors meld together.

For an extra layer of flavor, garnish each bowl with lime wedges and chopped scallions. A squeeze of lime brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich broth. Some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds can also add a nice crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other herbs instead of Thai basil?

While Thai basil is traditional for this soup, you can substitute it with regular basil or cilantro for a different flavor.

→ Is this soup spicy?

Yes, the Thai bird chilies add heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add fresh basil before serving.

→ What can I serve with Thai basil chicken soup?

This soup pairs well with steamed rice or a side of crispy spring rolls.