This Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and comforting warmth, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a casual dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. The fragrant coconut broth, paired with tender chicken and fresh herbs, elevates this meal to something truly special.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Soup Base
- For the Noodles and Coconut Milk
- For the Chicken and Herbs
- For Seasoning and Serving
- How to Make Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Step 2: Add Curry Base
- Step 3: Build the Broth
- Step 4: Incorporate Coconut Milk and Chicken
- Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs and Season
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Pair with Lime Wedges
- Serve with Rice or Noodles
- Accompany with Bread
- Include Appetizers
- How to Perfect Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Reheating Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup spicy?
- What can I substitute for chicken in Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup?
- How do I store leftovers of Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup?
- Can I use different noodles besides rice noodles?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Profile: The combination of coconut milk and red curry paste creates a rich and aromatic broth.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to make it even easier.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of curry paste used.
- Nutrient-Packed: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this recipe, gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking experience. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup and allowing all ingredients to meld together.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping vegetables and herbs efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 heaping tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust to taste; see notes)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
For the Noodles and Coconut Milk
- Juice of 1 lime
- 3.5 ounces uncooked rice noodles (see notes)
- 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
For the Chicken and Herbs
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (e.g., rotisserie chicken)
- Generous handful fresh basil, torn
- Handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- Chopped scallions, to taste
For Seasoning and Serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

How to Make Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
– Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add Curry Base
Stir in the ginger, garlic, and curry paste.
– Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Add the broth, water, lime juice, and rice noodles to the pot.
– Increase the heat to high and bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Incorporate Coconut Milk and Chicken
Stir in the coconut milk and shredded chicken.
– Reduce heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs and Season
Stir in the basil, cilantro, and scallions.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the soup immediately with an extra wedge of lime if desired.
– Remember that noodles will soak up liquid as leftovers sit; add more broth if reheating.
How to Serve Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
Serving Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and making it visually appealing. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Add torn basil leaves for a fragrant finish that complements the coconut broth.
- Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
- Scallions: Use chopped scallions as a mild oniony flavor enhancer.
Pair with Lime Wedges
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh lime juice into their bowls, adding brightness to each serving.
Serve with Rice or Noodles
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Offer a side of jasmine rice to soak up the delicious broth.
- Extra Rice Noodles: Provide additional rice noodles for those who prefer a heartier soup.
Accompany with Bread
- Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread for dipping into the soup, creating a satisfying contrast in textures.
Include Appetizers
- Thai Spring Rolls: Start the meal with crunchy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies and served with dipping sauce.
- Satay Skewers: Offer chicken or tofu satay skewers as a tasty starter that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
How to Perfect Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
To make your Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup even better, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Bold Flavor Boost: Always taste and adjust seasoning. Adding more salt or lime can brighten up the dish.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality coconut milk for richer flavor; full-fat coconut milk delivers creaminess.
- Fresh Herbs Are Key: Add fresh herbs like basil and cilantro just before serving to keep their vibrant color and flavor intact.
- Control Spice Level: Start with less curry paste if you’re sensitive to spice, then gradually increase to suit your taste.
- Use Leftover Chicken Wisely: Rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe, saving time without sacrificing flavor.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The noodles will soak up liquid, so add broth when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Thai Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice made with vegetables and soy sauce enhances the meal’s overall taste.
- Green Papaya Salad: This refreshing salad adds crunch and acidity, balancing the soup’s richness beautifully.
- Coconut Sticky Rice: Sweet sticky rice made with coconut milk is a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls serve as an excellent appetizer or side dish alongside your soup.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated shrimp skewers bring a smoky flavor that complements the curry nicely.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using too much curry paste: Adding excessive curry paste can overpower the dish. Start with a smaller amount, taste, and adjust as needed.
- Not preparing ingredients beforehand: Failing to prep your ingredients can slow you down. Have everything chopped and measured before you start cooking for a smoother process.
- Overcooking the noodles: Rice noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Follow package instructions closely and add them to the soup just before serving.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Omitting fresh herbs can result in a less vibrant flavor. Always finish your soup with fresh basil and cilantro for an aromatic touch.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Under-seasoning or over-seasoning can ruin your soup’s balance. Taste your soup before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, or lime juice.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup spicy?
You can definitely adjust the spice level! Use less curry paste or add fresh chili peppers for more heat.
What can I substitute for chicken in Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup?
You can use tofu or chickpeas as a vegetarian option, maintaining similar cooking times.
How do I store leftovers of Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use different noodles besides rice noodles?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other types of noodles, such as udon or soba, although cooking times may vary.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup is not only quick and comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Try it today and enjoy a delightful bowl of flavors!
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Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Easy Thai Chicken Curry Soup, a comforting and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This delightful soup features a rich coconut broth infused with fragrant red curry paste, tender chicken, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, this quick recipe—ready in just 20 minutes—will impress everyone at the table. With its customizable spice level and versatile ingredients, you can easily make this dish your own. Serve it with rice or noodles for a hearty meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 heaping tablespoons Thai red curry paste
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- Juice of 1 lime
- 3.5 ounces uncooked rice noodles
- 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- Generous handful fresh basil, torn
- Handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- Chopped scallions, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in grated ginger, minced garlic, and red curry paste; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, water, lime juice, and rice noodles to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate coconut milk and shredded chicken; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil, cilantro, and scallions; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg