Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup

The classic Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup is a Chinese restaurant favorite that you can now enjoy at home with ease. Made with pantry staples and cooked in under 20 minutes, it’s the ideal balance of creamy texture, sweet corn, and savory chicken flavors.

Perfect for chilly days or when you need something soothing and satisfying, this dish delivers big on comfort with minimal effort. Whether served as a hearty starter or light main course, it’s a wholesome and cozy bowl the whole family will love.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 chicken breast, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 can (198g) sweetcorn, drained

• 750ml chicken stock

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tbsp cornflour

• 2 tbsp water

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 spring onion, finely sliced (optional, for garnish)

• A dash of soy sauce (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the chicken breast pieces and cook until sealed and starting to brown.

4. Add the sweetcorn and chicken stock to the pan, bring to a gentle boil.

5. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

6. In a small bowl, mix the cornflour with water to make a slurry, then slowly stir into the soup to thicken.

7. While gently stirring the soup in a circular motion, slowly drizzle in the beaten egg to create silky strands.

8. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes, then season with salt, pepper, and a dash of soy sauce if desired.

9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped spring onion.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

Introduction to Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup

Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup is a beloved classic that combines the mild sweetness of corn with the comforting savoriness of chicken in a warm, soothing broth. This dish is most famously associated with Chinese takeaway menus around the world but is equally cherished in home kitchens for its simplicity, versatility, and nourishing quality. Its rich yet delicate flavor profile makes it suitable for everyone from kids to adults, and its quick preparation time ensures it fits into even the busiest of schedules.

At its core, Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup is a fusion of gentle Asian influences and homestyle cooking. The traditional version often uses minimal seasoning, allowing the main ingredients to shine. Its beauty lies in the layers of texture: the tender chicken, juicy kernels of corn, the soft swirl of egg ribbons, and the subtle thickness brought by cornflour. It’s a dish that delivers warmth and comfort with every spoonful, perfect for cold evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Cultural Background and Origin

Although widely enjoyed across the globe, this soup has roots in Chinese cuisine, where variations of chicken broth and corn-based soups have been enjoyed for generations. It’s commonly believed that the version we know today was adapted and simplified for Western palates, becoming a staple in Chinese takeaways and restaurants in countries like the UK, Australia, and the U.S.

The inclusion of sweetcorn—both canned and fresh—was likely influenced by its availability in Western supermarkets and the desire to balance umami with natural sweetness. Over time, this dish became a symbol of fusion cooking, combining Asian culinary techniques with ingredients familiar to global households.

Its popularity continues to thrive not only for its taste but also for its nostalgic value. Many people recall having this soup as a comforting meal during childhood, often when feeling sick or needing a light dinner after a long day.

Why It’s a Comfort Food Favorite

The appeal of Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup lies in how it connects emotionally with the eater. The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it ideal when you’re seeking something light but nourishing. The warm broth soothes the throat, the tender bits of chicken provide protein-rich sustenance, and the touch of sweetness from corn adds balance and a feel-good factor.

Moreover, it’s a forgiving dish. You can adjust the seasoning based on personal preferences—add a splash of soy sauce for saltiness, a hint of ginger for warmth, or a drizzle of sesame oil for depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, chili oil or white pepper can kick it up a notch. But at its base, it remains a dish that offers gentle satisfaction without overpowering the senses.

This soup is often associated with recovery—whether from a cold, emotional exhaustion, or just a long day. Its warming qualities and nutritious profile make it a go-to remedy that feeds both body and soul.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup is not just tasty—it’s also packed with health benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall cellular repair. Sweetcorn provides fiber and is rich in vitamins like B-complex, which help in energy production and brain function. Additionally, the soup’s high water content aids in hydration, which is especially helpful during illness or recovery periods.

If you use a homemade or low-sodium chicken stock, the soup becomes a low-fat and low-calorie option that still feels hearty and filling. The beaten egg stirred into the broth adds a source of easily digestible protein, perfect for those needing gentle nourishment. It’s also a great meal for people on light diets or post-operative recovery plans.

For health-conscious cooks, the soup can be easily tailored. Use skinless chicken breast to reduce fat, incorporate fresh vegetables like carrots or mushrooms, or add herbs like parsley and coriander for additional nutrients. You can even make it gluten-free by ensuring your soy sauce and cornflour are certified gluten-free products.

Versatility and Customization

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you’re using up leftovers or planning a deliberate meal, it accommodates a range of ingredients and preferences.

For a richer texture, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken. If you’re vegetarian or serving guests with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead of chicken broth. For extra substance, some people like to add cooked rice or egg noodles directly into the soup for a heartier bowl.

Seasoning can be varied to create different taste profiles. A splash of fish sauce introduces depth, while a dash of white pepper gives it a traditional Chinese flair. Want a brighter flavor? Add a squeeze of lime or a few drops of vinegar. You can even blend part of the corn for a creamier base, transforming the dish into something closer to a chowder without dairy.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup is usually served as a starter in Chinese meals but works just as well as a light main course. A crusty slice of bread, a simple rice bowl, or even a spring roll on the side can turn it into a well-rounded meal.

If you’re preparing a themed dinner, consider serving this soup before a main course of stir-fried noodles or dumplings. It also pairs nicely with a crunchy Asian slaw or cucumber salad, balancing its warmth with something crisp and refreshing.

For entertaining or family-style dinners, serve the soup in individual bowls garnished with sliced spring onions or chopped coriander. Drizzle a bit of sesame oil or chili oil over the top for an aromatic finish that looks elegant and tastes delicious.

Storage and Meal Prep

This soup keeps exceptionally well in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently over the stove or in the microwave. If you’re making it ahead, consider leaving out the egg and adding it only when reheating to maintain the signature silky texture.

It’s also a freezer-friendly recipe. Freeze in individual portions and reheat straight from frozen for a convenient, nourishing meal anytime. Just give it a gentle stir to re-emulsify the broth as it warms up. This makes it an ideal option for meal prep enthusiasts or busy parents looking to prepare wholesome meals in advance.

Conclusion

Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup is far more than just an appetizer; it’s a bowlful of comfort, tradition, and culinary creativity. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood meals, looking for a simple dish to soothe your body, or exploring fusion-style cooking, this recipe checks every box. It’s versatile enough to suit any dietary preference, easy enough for weeknight dinners, and nutritious enough to earn a regular spot in your kitchen rotation.

Its blend of mild, sweet, and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that rarely needs much tweaking. Add to that the fast prep time and minimal ingredients, and you have a soup that proves wholesome, homemade food doesn’t have to be complicated. So next time you crave something warm, simple, and soul-satisfying, ladle yourself a bowl of Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup—and feel the comfort from the very first spoonful.