This Thai Red Curry Chicken Noodle Soup is a vibrant and comforting twist on healthy chicken noodle soup recipes. You’ll love how easily you can create this flavorful and satisfying meal in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you crave something both hearty and light.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Red Curry Paste: Choose a good quality Thai red curry paste. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk provides the best creaminess. Light coconut milk works for a lighter option.
- Noodles: Rice noodles are traditional and gluten-free. Egg noodles or even spaghetti can be used in a pinch.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers and spinach add color and nutrients. Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like snap peas or carrots.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or neutral oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced or cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- 4 ounces wide rice noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, knife, cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Build the Flavor Base
Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red curry paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the sliced bell pepper, fish sauce (if using), and brown sugar (if using).
4. Cook the Chicken and Noodles
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package directions, usually 3-5 minutes, until tender.
5. Wilt the Spinach and Serve
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, about 1 minute. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge.
Variation Ideas:
- Add thinly sliced mushrooms or bamboo shoots for extra texture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas.
- Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or a drizzle of sriracha for more crunch and heat.
- Serve with a side of extra lime wedges and fresh chili slices.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Thai Red Curry Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to thin the consistency. The noodles may absorb a lot of the liquid over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base and chicken in advance. Cook the noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Is this soup spicy?
The spice level depends on the amount and type of red curry paste you use. Start with less and add more if you prefer more heat.
What kind of noodles should I use?
Wide rice noodles are traditional, but you can use any thin or medium-sized rice noodles, or even vermicelli.
Can I freeze this soup?
You can freeze the soup base (broth, coconut milk, curry paste, chicken, and vegetables) without the noodles. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
Is this a healthy chicken noodle soup recipe?
Yes, this recipe is packed with lean protein, vegetables, and flavorful broth, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
What if I don’t have fish sauce?
Fish sauce adds a unique savory depth, but you can omit it if you don’t have it or if you prefer. Adjust salt to taste.