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Bright Lemongrass Chicken Soup

This vibrant chicken soup combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic ginger, fresh lemongrass, and flavorful broth to create a comforting yet lively dish. The soup is finished with bright lime juice and cilantro, resulting in a clear, fragrant bowl with tender chicken pieces and a zingy, herbal finish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs preferably bone-in, skinless
  • 1 inch fresh ginger peeled and sliced thin
  • 2 stalks lemongrass bruised to release flavor
  • 8 cups chicken broth preferably homemade or good quality store-bought
  • 1 lime lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Ladle
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and prep your tools, ensuring the chicken is thawed and ready to cook.
  2. Heat a large stockpot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic, sliced ginger, and bruised lemongrass stalks to the pot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the mixture is aromatic and begins to sizzle.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken thighs to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, skimming off foam as it rises.
  5. Remove the chicken thighs from the broth, place them on a cutting board, and shred the meat with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
  6. Season the soup with salt and pepper, tasting for balance. Add a splash of lime juice for brightness and stir well.
  7. Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro and give the soup a final taste test to adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Ladle the hot, fragrant soup into bowls and enjoy immediately, savoring the bright, comforting flavors and tender chicken pieces.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add noodles or leftover vegetables. Be sure to remove the lemongrass stalks before serving, as they are tough and inedible. Fresh herbs and citrus at the end really elevate the dish's brightness.