Warm, cozy, and bursting with flavor, this Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is a vibrant blend of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, creamy coconut milk, and zesty lime. Naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, paleo, and Whole30-friendly, it’s a one-pot wonder perfect for chilly nights or nourishing weeknight dinners. The red curry paste brings the heat and depth, while fresh herbs and garnishes make every bite sing!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- For Garnish (optional)
- How to Make Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Step 2: Add Curry Paste
- Step 3: Cook the Veggies
- Step 4: Add Liquids
- Step 5: Add Chicken and Broccoli
- Step 6: Season and Finish
- Step 7: Serve
- How to Serve Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Add Crunchy Toppings
- Serve with Lime Wedges
- How to Perfect Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Reheating Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup dairy-free?
- Can I customize my Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
- How spicy is this Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
- What can I serve with this soup?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of coconut milk and red curry paste creates a rich, warm flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy this comforting soup in just 40 minutes!
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe makes great leftovers and can be stored in the fridge or frozen for later enjoyment.
- Health-Conscious Option: Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, this soup aligns with various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Sharp knife: Ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables for a smoother prep experience.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced or chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red curry paste (or green curry paste)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons coconut aminos
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For Garnish (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or basil
- Red or green onions, thinly sliced
- Chili oil
- Chopped cashews
- Extra lime wedges

How to Make Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 2 minutes while stirring until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Add Curry Paste
Stir in the red curry paste (or green curry paste). Cook for 1 minute to allow it to bloom and coat the aromatics thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
Add the sliced bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini. Stir to coat them in the curry mixture. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they are slightly softened.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth along with the coconut milk and coconut aminos. Increase heat to medium-high and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Broccoli
Stir in the bite-sized pieces of chicken breast along with broccoli florets. Simmer for 5–6 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and broccoli is bright green.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Stir in lime juice along with salt to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed based on your preference.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle your hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, along with sliced onions, chili oil drizzle, chopped cashews, and extra lime wedges if desired.
How to Serve Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Serving Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and making each bowl a delicious experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy this comforting soup.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro or Basil: Add a handful of fresh cilantro or basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
- Chili Oil: Drizzle some chili oil on top for an extra kick of heat.
Add Crunchy Toppings
- Chopped Cashews: Sprinkle chopped cashews for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Red or Green Onions: Thinly sliced onions add color and a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.
Serve with Lime Wedges
- Extra Lime Wedges: Provide lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their soup, enhancing the zesty taste.
How to Perfect Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
To elevate your Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the recipe.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Customize the amount of curry paste based on your heat preference; start with less if unsure.
- Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer gently to meld the flavors without overcooking the chicken.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu for variations in protein and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that absorbs the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lime adds freshness.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls complement the soup’s creaminess.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and chili offers a nice contrast.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini and bell peppers bring additional smoky flavors.
- Garlic Naan Bread: Soft naan is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed bok choy or spinach adds nutrition and color.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, serve this classic dessert after your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup, it’s easy to slip into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting the onion, garlic, and ginger can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté these first for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Ensure it is just cooked through for tender bites.
- Not tasting as you go: Failing to taste your soup while cooking can result in unbalanced flavors. Adjust seasoning gradually for the best outcome.
- Rushing the simmer: Bringing the soup to a boil instead of a gentle simmer can affect texture. Allow it to simmer slowly for optimal results.
- Ignoring garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs and lime for garnish can diminish presentation and taste. These add freshness that enhances your dish.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup freezes well and maintains quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup dairy-free?
This soup uses coconut milk instead of dairy products, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Can I customize my Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables or substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
How spicy is this Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
The spice level largely depends on the amount of curry paste used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.
What can I serve with this soup?
Pair this soup with jasmine rice or rice noodles for a complete meal, enhancing its delicious flavors.
Final Thoughts
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether you are enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup will surely please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Warm and comforting, Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and creamy coconut milk. Infused with zesty lime and aromatic herbs, this one-pot meal bursts with flavor while being dairy-free, gluten-free, paleo, and Whole30-friendly. Perfect for chilly nights or as a nourishing weeknight dinner, this vibrant soup is quick to prepare and can easily be customized to suit your taste. With just 40 minutes from prep to table, you’ll have a cozy bowl of goodness ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced or chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red curry paste (or green curry paste)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons coconut aminos
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Sauté sliced onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in red curry paste and cook for an additional minute.
- Add bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini; sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add chicken pieces and broccoli; simmer for 5–6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in lime juice and season with salt to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and optional toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg