Chicken Khao Soi is a traditional Northern Thai noodle soup that blends rich, creamy coconut milk with aromatic spices. This dish features tender chicken, soft egg noodles, and crispy fried noodles for added texture, all enveloped in a fragrant curry broth. A perfect harmony of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, Khao Soi is a crowd-pleaser and an ideal comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a warm, hearty meal, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.
Ingredients
For the Curry Broth:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz fresh egg noodles
- 1 cup cooked egg noodles (fried for garnish)
Toppings and Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced red onions
- Pickled mustard greens (optional)
- Sliced green chilies
- Crispy shallots
Preparation
Step 1: Make the Curry Broth
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Add the Thai red curry paste, curry powder, and turmeric powder. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are aromatic.
Step 2: Simmer the Broth
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the simmering broth. Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Noodles
Cook the fresh egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Divide the noodles among serving bowls.
Step 5: Fry the Noodles for Garnish
Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Fry a handful of cooked egg noodles until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Ladle the curry broth and chicken over the cooked noodles in each bowl. Top with crispy fried noodles and a selection of garnishes such as fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sliced red onions, and pickled mustard greens.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or mixed vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or fish for a seafood version.
- Spicier Broth: Add fresh chilies or a teaspoon of chili oil for an extra kick of heat.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality coconut milk for the creamiest broth.
- To make it authentically Thai, try adding kaffir lime leaves or galangal to the broth.
- The crispy fried noodles add texture, so don’t skip this step!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with additional lime wedges for guests to adjust the tanginess.
- Pair the dish with a side of Thai spring rolls or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Marinate the chicken with a little soy sauce and curry powder for extra flavor.
- Prepare all toppings in advance for easy assembly.
- If you prefer thicker broth, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid slightly.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and cook the chicken ahead of time. Reheat the broth and assemble the dish just before serving.
Q: What type of noodles are best for Khao Soi?
Fresh egg noodles are traditional, but dried egg noodles or ramen can also work in a pinch.
Q: Can I freeze the curry broth?
Absolutely! The broth freezes well for up to three months. Store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to use.
Conclusion
Chicken Khao Soi is a culinary masterpiece that combines bold flavors and comforting textures in every bite. The creamy curry broth, tender chicken, and contrasting textures of soft and crispy noodles make it a standout dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this Thai-inspired recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation. So grab your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of this irresistible noodle soup!