On chilly evenings, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a comforting bowl of homemade soup. The first spoonful of this Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup ignites a delightful harmony of flavors that dances on your palate—sweet golden corn pairs beautifully with the tender shreds of chicken, all enveloped in a silky broth.
I stumbled upon this comforting recipe while searching for a way to use up the leftover cooked chicken in my fridge. With just a few pantry staples and a sprinkle of love, this dish comes together effortlessly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Each swirl of the soup reveals a universe of taste; the invigorating aroma of ginger and garlic fills the kitchen, enveloping everyone in a rich sense of home.
Ready to escape the fast-food monotony and treat yourself to a nourishing, homemade dish? Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing soup that will welcome you back to the table time and time again.
Why will you love Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup?
Comforting warmth: This soup is the perfect remedy for chilly evenings, inviting you to curl up with a cozy bowl.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a fantastic solution for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The blend of sweetcorn, tender chicken, and aromatic spices creates a taste sensation you can’t resist.
Nutritious choice: Packed with lean protein and wholesome ingredients, this soup satisfies both your cravings and your health goals.
Versatile delight: Enjoy it as a starter, main course, or even as a light lunch, making it a versatile recipe for every occasion.
Dive into this scrumptious dish that not only satisfies but also brings everyone back to the dinner table!
Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dish!
For the Soup
- Vegetable oil – a splash goes a long way in sautéing your garlic and ginger for a fragrant base.
- Garlic (2 cloves) – enhances the depth of flavor in every spoonful.
- Ginger (2.5 cm piece) – adds warmth and a zing that balances the sweetness of the corn.
- Light soy sauce – this adds a savory undertone; for a gluten-free option, use tamari.
- Sweetcorn kernels (300 g) – fresh or frozen works wonders, bringing a natural sweetness, just like in authentic Chinese chicken and sweetcorn soup!
- Chicken stock (1.5 liters) – homemade or store-bought, this liquid gold ties all the flavors together.
- Cornflour (27 g) – thickens the soup to give it that comforting texture.
- Cooked chicken breasts (2) – shredded for easy incorporation; any leftover poultry works perfectly!
- Eggs (2, whisked) – create beautiful ribbons that elevate the soup’s appeal.
- Sesame oil (15 ml) – a drizzle at the end brings an irresistible aroma.
- Spring onions (2) – sliced for a fresh garnishing touch that adds color and crunch.
With these simple yet delicious ingredients, you’re on the way to crafting a bowl of joy with my Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup!
How to Make Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Add the sweetcorn kernels and the light soy sauce to the pan. Stir well and fry for 3 minutes, allowing the corn to caramelize slightly for extra flavor.
- Pour the chicken stock into the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Create a cornflour slurry by mixing the cornflour with a small amount of water in a cup until smooth. This will thicken your soup nicely.
- Gradually add the cornflour slurry to the simmering soup, stirring continuously to combine and achieve a silky texture.
- Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the soup for hearty bites in every spoonful.
- Slowly drizzle the whisked eggs into the soup while stirring constantly. This will create beautiful egg ribbons that enhance the soup’s visual appeal.
- Add a drizzle of sesame oil for an aromatic finish, giving your soup that authentic flavor boost.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with the finely sliced spring onions for a fresh and vibrant touch.
Optional: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a refreshing zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during busy weeknights! You can chop the garlic, ginger, and slice the spring onions up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the broth and add the sweetcorn, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring the soup to a simmer, add in the cooked chicken and cornflour slurry, and finish by drizzling in the whisked eggs. This approach ensures your soup is just as delicious, with all flavors preserved, making dinner a breeze!
Variations & Substitutions for Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and personal touches to make the soup even more special!
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Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a warm, spicy undertone. Spice lovers will appreciate the heat that transforms each spoonful.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable stock for a satisfying plant-based version. The firm tofu absorbs flavors beautifully, creating a wonderful texture.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a rich, creamy soup. This adds a lovely coastal vibe that blends perfectly with the sweetcorn.
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Herbal Lift: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley during the last few minutes of cooking for added freshness. This touch will brighten up your soup with herbaceous notes!
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Additional Veggies: Toss in some chopped bok choy or carrots for a colorful veggie boost. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds delightful crunch.
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Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top just before serving. This nutty finish brings depth and a satisfying crunch to your already delightful soup.
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Savory Mushrooms: Add shiitake or button mushrooms for an umami punch. Sauté them along with garlic and ginger for a fantastic flavor foundation.
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Quinoa Boost: Substitute shredded chicken with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed twist. This hearty option adds an intriguing texture while keeping the soup wholesome.
With these variations, you can taste the joy of creating your own version of Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup, ensuring every bowl is uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup?
Warm up your dining experience by complementing your soup with these delightful side dishes and beverages!
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up every drop of broth, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These bite-sized delights bring a crunch factor that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s silky texture.
Pairing spring rolls with the soup creates a delightful fusion of flavors. The freshness of the vegetables within the rolls enhances the overall experience, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Garlic Bread: The rich, buttery flavors of garlic bread provide a delicious dunking option for the soup.
- Simple Green Salad: A lightly dressed salad with crisp greens adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
What about adding some vibrant colors? Tossing in cherry tomatoes and cucumbers brightens up your plate while offering a refreshing bite between spoonfuls.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white perfectly complements the savory soup, elevating the flavor profile of this comforting dish.
- Chrysanthemum Tea: This fragrant tea is soothing and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the corn, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet provides a refreshing end to the meal, cleansing the palate with every sweet spoonful.
With these delicious companions, your dinner table will be a celebration of flavor and comfort!
Tips for the Best Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger to maximize the aromatic flavor in your soup. Dried or powdered versions can’t replicate that unique taste.
- Check the Stock: Ensure your chicken stock is well-seasoned before adding more salt or soy sauce. This prevents the soup from becoming overly salty.
- Avoid Overcooking Eggs: When adding the whisked eggs, stir gently and quickly to form ribbons instead of scrambled eggs. This will maintain the soup’s silky texture.
- Cornflour Texture: Mix the cornflour with enough water to create a smooth slurry. This prevents clumps from forming when added to the simmering soup, ensuring a perfect consistency.
- Garnish Wisely: Always garnish with fresh spring onions right before serving. Their crunch and color elevate the overall presentation and freshness of your delicious Chinese chicken and sweetcorn soup.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Texture Tip: Be aware that the egg ribbons may change texture when frozen, but the flavor will still be delightful in your Chinese chicken and sweetcorn soup!
Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select fresh sweetcorn for the soup?
Absolutely! Look for sweetcorn with bright green husks and plump kernels. If the kernels are slightly dented or dry, they may not be as sweet or juicy. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s high quality and has no ice crystals.
How long can I store the leftover soup?
Very! You can store leftover Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock to restore its silky texture.
Can I freeze the soup for later?
Of course! To freeze, let the soup cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup becomes thicker than you like, simply add a bit more chicken stock or water while simmering to reach your desired consistency. Stir continuously and taste as you go so you can maintain that delicious flavor.
Can pets safely consume this soup?
Generally, pets cannot eat this soup due to ingredients like garlic and onions, which can be toxic to them. If you want to share, prepare a simple broth without these ingredients, using just the chicken stock and sweetcorn.
What if I have a corn allergy? What can I use instead?
If you have a corn allergy, I recommend substituting the sweetcorn with finely chopped carrots or peas. They’ll provide a slightly different texture, but they will still lend a lovely sweetness and color to your Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup!
Delicious Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup in 40 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Add the sweetcorn kernels and the light soy sauce to the pan. Stir well and fry for 3 minutes, allowing the corn to caramelize slightly for extra flavor.
- Pour the chicken stock into the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Create a cornflour slurry by mixing the cornflour with a small amount of water in a cup until smooth. This will thicken your soup nicely.
- Gradually add the cornflour slurry to the simmering soup, stirring continuously to combine and achieve a silky texture.
- Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the soup for hearty bites in every spoonful.
- Slowly drizzle the whisked eggs into the soup while stirring constantly. This will create beautiful egg ribbons that enhance the soup's visual appeal.
- Add a drizzle of sesame oil for an aromatic finish, giving your soup that authentic flavor boost.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with the finely sliced spring onions for a fresh and vibrant touch.