Go Back
Homemade Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai) photo

Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

This Thai Coconut Chicken Soup is a comforting bowl of tropical flavor! Creamy coconut milk meets tender chicken and zesty spices for a delightful experience.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed from about 2 limes
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste Gourmet Garden brand recommended
  • 1 tablespoon ginger paste Gourmet Garden brand recommended
  • 1 serrano chili finely chopped, seeds removed
  • 1 cup white button mushrooms sliced
  • 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken rotisserie chicken works wonderfully
  • 14 ounces coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • cherry tomatoes halved
  • fresh cilantro for garnish
  • hot sauce optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Base - In a large pot, pour in the 8 cups of chicken stock. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Step 2: Add Aromatics - Add the lemongrass paste, ginger paste, and kosher salt. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Incorporate the Heat - Add the finely chopped serrano chili. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Introduce the Vegetables - Toss in the sliced white button mushrooms and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir well and let them cook for about 5 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Add the Chicken - Stir in the cooked and shredded chicken, allowing it to heat through for about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Creamy Coconut Addition - Pour in the coconut milk and brown sugar, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Finish with Freshness - Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Step 8: Serve and Garnish - Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional cilantro. Offer hot sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize this soup by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
  • If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • This soup can be made vegetarian by using vegetable stock and omitting the chicken.