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Homemade Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai) photo

Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

This Thai Coconut Chicken Soup is a flavor-packed journey to Thailand! Creamy coconut milk meets zesty lime and fresh herbs for a comforting bowl.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice (from 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 seeds removed and finely chopped
  • 1 cup white button mushrooms sliced
  • 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (I used rotisserie chicken)
  • 14 ounces coconut milk (1 can)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • cherry tomatoes halved
  • fresh cilantro for garnish
  • hot sauce to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the cilantro, slice the mushrooms, and shred the chicken if it’s not already done. This makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
  2. In a large pot, combine the chicken stock, lemongrass paste, ginger paste, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  3. Once the stock is boiling, add in the finely chopped serrano chili and sliced mushrooms. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
  4. Stir in the cooked and shredded chicken to the pot. Allow it to heat through, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk and add the brown sugar. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This is where your soup starts to take on that luxurious creaminess.
  6. Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lime juice and half of the chopped cilantro. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed.
  7. Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Garnish with cherry tomatoes, additional cilantro, and a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Soup can thicken upon refrigeration; add chicken stock when reheating.
  • This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.