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. Perfect for chilly nights or nourishing weeknight dinners, this soup is not only dairy-free but also gluten-free, paleo, and Whole30-friendly. The red curry paste adds a delightful kick, while fresh herbs elevate every bite.

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
- Pair with Lime Wedges
- Accompany with Bread
- Add Crunchy Toppings
- How to Perfect Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- 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 Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
- What can I serve with Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
- How long does it take to make Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Comfort: Enjoy a warm bowl that combines the richness of coconut milk with aromatic spices.
- Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for a unique twist each time.
- Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from chicken and veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to savor your delicious creation!
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on making your Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking all ingredients together evenly and allows for easy stirring.
- Cutting board: A stable surface to chop veggies safely and efficiently.
- Knife: Sharp knives speed up prep time and help ensure clean cuts on ingredients.
Ingredients
Here are the tasty ingredients you’ll need to prepare your Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup:
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 curry paste. Cook for 1 minute to allow it to bloom and coat the aromatics thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
Add the bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini. Stir well to coat them in the curry mixture and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth, 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 chicken breast pieces along with broccoli florets. Let it simmer for about 5–6 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and broccoli is bright green and tender.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Add fresh lime juice along with salt to taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary based on your preference.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, onions, chili oil if desired, chopped cashews, and extra lime wedges for added zest. Enjoy your delicious Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup!
How to Serve Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Serving Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro or Basil: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top for a burst of freshness.
- Chili Oil: Drizzle a little chili oil for an extra kick of heat.
Pair with Lime Wedges
- Extra Lime: Serve with lime wedges on the side, so guests can add a splash of citrus to brighten the dish.
Accompany with Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette, perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Naan Bread: Serve warm naan to complement the flavors and soak up the soup.
Add Crunchy Toppings
- Chopped Cashews: Top each bowl with chopped cashews for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Red or Green Onions: Thinly sliced onions add a nice bite and color contrast.
How to Perfect Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Perfecting your Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your cooking game and achieve delicious results every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your soup.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, use less curry paste or add coconut milk gradually.
- Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender by simmering until fully cooked.
- Balance Flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, lime juice, and curry paste to achieve the desired balance.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Complement your Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup with these tasty side dishes. Each option adds something special to your meal experience.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy rice pairs perfectly with this flavorful soup.
- Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this rice brings out the tropical flavors in the soup.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds texture and brightness.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Tender shrimp seasoned with spices provide a protein-packed addition to your meal.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies offer a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with herbs complements the creamy soup without overpowering it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Overcooking the chicken: Ensure you only cook the chicken until it’s fully done. Overcooking can lead to dry and tough meat.
- Ignoring the aromatics: Sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; let them soften and become fragrant.
- Using low-quality curry paste: The flavor largely depends on your curry paste. Invest in a good-quality brand for the best taste.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro or basil adds brightness. Don’t skip these garnishes; they elevate the entire dish.
- Not tasting before serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt or lime juice as needed for a perfect balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Allow the soup to cool down before sealing it to preserve freshness.
Freezing Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers since liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup dairy-free?
The use of coconut milk instead of dairy cream gives this soup its creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.
Can I customize my Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or proteins like shrimp or tofu based on your preference.
How spicy is Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
The spice level can vary depending on the type of curry paste used. You can adjust it by adding more or less paste as desired.
What can I serve with Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or a side salad for a complete meal.
How long does it take to make Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup?
The total time is around 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Final Thoughts
This Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly night or a nourishing option for busy weeknights, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various ingredients!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Warm and comforting, this Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy coconut milk, all infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for chilly nights or as a nourishing weeknight dinner, this soup is gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and Whole30-friendly. The red curry paste adds just the right amount of heat, while fresh herbs like cilantro or basil enhance every bite. With its quick prep time and simple one-pot cooking method, you’ll be enjoying a bowl of this flavorful soup in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1/2 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup red curry paste
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 carrots
- 1 medium zucchini
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger for about 2 minutes.
- Add curry paste and cook for another minute.
- Incorporate bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini; sauté for 3–4 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk; bring to simmer.
- Add chicken pieces and broccoli; simmer until cooked through (5–6 minutes).
- Stir in lime juice and season to taste.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes like fresh herbs or chili oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 735mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg