Just as the clouds gather and the chill settles in, there’s nothing quite like the steaming bowl of Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup to wrap you in warmth and comfort. I discovered this delightful recipe during one of those cozy weekends when I just wanted something homemade yet quick. Imagine fragrant ginger and garlic mingling beautifully with tender chicken, rich noodles, and a hint of umami — each spoonful sending a wave of comfort with every slurp.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; it requires no store-bought broth, relying instead on fresh ingredients to create that deep, savory flavor. Believe me, waiting just 45 minutes feels like no sacrifice at all when you end up with a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart. Whether you’re tackling a chilly weeknight or setting the stage for a comforting family gathering, this soup delivers every time. Let’s dive in and make some magic in the kitchen!
Why is Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Fresh Ingredients elevate the flavors, as there’s no need for store-bought broth—just wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. Hearty and Comforting, each spoonful brings warmth, making it an ideal dish for chilly nights. Versatility shines through; feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or protein. And best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone at your table will love it! If you’re interested in other comforting homemade dishes, be sure to check out my go-to soups collection.
Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Provides rich flavor and tender texture; you can substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option.
For the Aromatics
• Garlic (6 cloves, thinly sliced) – Adds savory depth and aroma; no substitution necessary, but you can reduce the amount for less pungency.
• Ginger (3-inch piece, peeled and finely chopped) – Contributes warmth and spice; fresh ginger is key for flavor, powdered ginger is not recommended.
• Scallions (1 bundle, whites and greens separated) – Adds freshness and color; other mild onions can be substituted if necessary.
For the Broth
• Kosher Salt (4 teaspoons) – Essential for seasoning the soup; regular salt can be used, but adjust to taste.
• Freshly Ground Black or White Pepper – Enhances overall flavor profile.
• Water (10 cups) – Acts as the soup base; vegetable broth can also be used for added flavor.
For the Noodles & Vegetables
• Dried Ramen-Style Noodles (8 ounces) – Provides the main carbohydrate; substitute with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles as needed.
• Carrot (1 cup, cut into thin matchsticks) – Adds sweetness and crunch; can replace with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
For the Flavoring
• Black Rice Vinegar (¼ cup) – Provides a unique depth of flavor; can substitute with unseasoned rice vinegar if necessary.
• Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Contributes umami and saltiness; tamari works as a gluten-free alternative.
• Toasted Sesame Oil (2 tablespoons) – Adds nutty richness; use regular sesame oil for a lighter flavor.
• Crispy Chili Oil (to taste) – Adds spice and depth; optional to adjust the spice level based on your preference.
How to Make Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup
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Boil the Base: In a 4-5 quart pot, bring together boneless chicken thighs, garlic, ginger, scallion whites, salt, pepper, and water to a roaring boil. This will create a flavorful broth!
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Simmer for Flavor: Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 12-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The aroma should be delightful!
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Prepare the Sauce: While the soup simmers, whisk together the black rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil in a separate bowl. This adds depth and flavor!
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Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. This will make incorporating it back into the soup seamless!
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Add Noodles and Vegetables: Toss in the dried ramen-style noodles and matchstick carrots to the pot, cooking according to package directions until perfectly tender.
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Combine and Serve: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, warming it through for about 1 minute. Ladle into bowls, topping with scallion greens and a drizzle of the soy sauce mixture for an extra pop of flavor!
Optional: For an extra kick, garnish with lime wedges or fresh cilantro.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the garlic, ginger, and carrots, and even season your chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store these components in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful. You can also mix the soy sauce dressing ahead of time; just make sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply bring your broth to a boil, add the chicken and aromatics, and cook for about 12-15 minutes until tender. Finally, toss in the noodles and warm everything together for a quick, hearty meal, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup
- Choose Chicken Thighs: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs delivers richer flavor and tenderness compared to breasts—don’t overlook this ingredient!
- Fresh is Best: Always opt for fresh ginger and garlic when making this soup; powdered versions lack the vibrant aroma that makes this Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup so special.
- Noodle Timing: Pay close attention to the noodle cooking time stated on the package; overcooked noodles can become mushy, altering the soup’s consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your broth as it simmers; you can always add more salt or soy sauce to achieve your desired saltiness.
- Creative Additions: Don’t hesitate to customize your bowl; adding extra veggies like bok choy or snap peas boosts nutrition and color in your Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup.
What to Serve with Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup?
There’s something magical about a comforting bowl of soup paired with delightful sides that enhance the whole dining experience.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites add a satisfying texture contrast to the warm soup, perfectly complementing its soothing flavors. A bite of a spring roll dipped in sweet chili sauce will definitely awaken your taste buds.
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Steamed Broccoli: Fresh and bright, adding a colorful veggie side not only brings nutrients but also balances out the rich flavors of the soup. The slight bitterness of broccoli contrasts beautifully with the savory broth.
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Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side of garlic bread is irresistible with that flavorful broth. Use it to soak up the last drops of soup, enhancing the garlic flavor throughout your meal for an unforgettable experience.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and zesty rice adds a refreshing note that brightens the overall meal. The citrusy hint makes for an outstanding combination, as every spoonful of soup mingles with the garlicky warmth of the rice.
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Pickled Vegetables: Adding a side of tangy pickled veggies provides an unexpected crunch and zest that invigorates the palate. This brightens up the entire meal, creating a delightful harmony with the flavors of the soup.
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Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after the hearty soup. Choose seasonal fruits, and their natural sweetness will perfectly balance the savory notes of your ginger garlic chicken noodle soup.
Enjoy your meal with these delightful pairings, and let the warmth of each flavor create cozy memories around your table!
Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this delightful dish with these fun twists!
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Tofu Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option without losing the comforting essence.
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More Veggies: Add a variety of colorful vegetables such as bok choy, snap peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and crunchy texture.
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Gluten-Free Noodles: Swap conventional noodles for gluten-free varieties or rice noodles to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Twist: Incorporate sriracha or chili paste in addition to the crispy chili oil for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil towards the end of cooking for a bright, aromatic layer of flavor.
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Coconut Milk Creaminess: For a new flavor profile, drizzle in some coconut milk for a rich creaminess that elevates the broth beautifully.
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Miso Boost: Stir in a spoonful of miso paste to the broth for an umami-rich depth that complements the ginger and garlic perfectly.
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Lime Zest Brightness: Add the zest of a lime before serving to elevate the dish with a citrusy brightness that contrasts beautifully with the savory broth.
How to Store and Freeze Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup
Fridge: Store your ginger garlic chicken noodle soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the noodles may absorb some broth over time.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. To maintain texture, consider storing the broth separately from the noodles.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat your soup on the stove until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick after thawing.
Tip: For the best results, store soup and noodles separately to prevent the noodles from getting overly soft in your ginger garlic chicken noodle soup.
Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup?
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs is ideal as they provide a rich flavor and tender texture, making your soup more hearty and satisfying. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute with chicken breast, but keep in mind that it may not yield the same level of richness.
How should I store leftover soup?
Store your ginger garlic chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember that noodles may absorb some broth over time, so it’s best to keep the broth and noodles separate if you’re making it ahead of time.
Can I freeze the soup? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your ginger garlic chicken noodle soup, pour it into airtight freezer bags or containers. For the best texture, I recommend storing the broth separately from the noodles. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the consistency is too thick.
What should I do if my noodles become mushy?
If your noodles become mushy, try not to overcook them in the first place. Pay close attention to the package cooking times. If they still turn out too soft, you can always add some fresh noodles when reheating your soup, giving it a better texture.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily tailor the dish to accommodate dietary needs. If you’re gluten-free, swap the conventional noodles with gluten-free or rice noodles. For a vegetarian option, use tofu in place of chicken and vegetable broth instead of water, making it a delightful alternative without losing its comforting essence.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). During the simmering phase, check for tenderness; if it easily shreds with a fork, it’s ready to be added back into the soup. Additionally, the chicken should no longer be pink in the center when cut.
Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup to Warm Your Soul Fast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 4-5 quart pot, bring together boneless chicken thighs, garlic, ginger, scallion whites, salt, pepper, and water to a roaring boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 12-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- While the soup simmers, whisk together the black rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil in a separate bowl.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss in the dried ramen-style noodles and matchstick carrots to the pot, cooking according to package directions.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot, warming it through for about 1 minute. Ladle into bowls, topping with scallion greens and a drizzle of the soy sauce mixture.
