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Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup is a comforting, slow-cooked dish blending tender chicken with creamy coconut milk, fragrant lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and fresh herbs. This rich and creamy soup features authentic Thai flavors balanced with a hint of spice and brightness from lime juice, perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in or boneless)

Liquids & Sauces

  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce/tamari for vegan)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Aromatics & Spices

  • 2 lemongrass stalks, roughly chopped
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, roughly chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced or roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes or 1-2 fresh chilies (optional, adjust to taste)

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (Thai basil preferred)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Roughly chop fresh ginger, garlic, and lemongrass stalks. These ingredients will infuse the soup with vibrant, authentic Thai flavors as it cooks.
  2. Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot: Add the chicken, mushrooms, and prepared aromatics into the crockpot. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, then season with fish sauce and chili flakes if using for heat.
  3. Slow Cook for Rich Flavor: Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken and allows flavors to meld and deepen.
  4. Final Touches Before Serving: About 15 minutes before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup and tear in fresh cilantro and basil leaves. Stir gently to combine and remove the lemongrass stalks before serving.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken pieces for deeper flavor; remove bones before serving for convenience.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their bright, fresh flavors.
  • Adjust the spice level gradually, starting mild and adding more chili towards the end.
  • Keep lemongrass stalks intact during cooking for infusion; remove before serving as they are tough.
  • For a creamier soup, stir in a cornstarch slurry just before serving to thicken.
  • Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegan or allergy-friendly option.
  • If using frozen chicken or vegetables, increase cooking time slightly to ensure thorough cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai coconut chicken soup, crockpot chicken soup, slow cooker Thai soup, coconut milk soup, Thai chicken crockpot recipe, comfort food soup