Aromatic Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, a dish that warms the soul and fills the belly. In my quest for the perfect cozy meal, I stumbled upon this heavenly concoction that blends tender chicken, aromatic ginger, and the unmistakable kick of garlic. It’s the kind of soup you crave on a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather. The combination of fresh ingredients and rich flavors makes it a standout meal for any occasion, be it a weeknight dinner or a family get-together.
Why you’ll love this dish
What sets this recipe apart is not just its delightful flavor but also its simplicity. Perfect for busy weeknights, this noodle soup comes together in under an hour, allowing you to whip up something special without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s also budget-friendly, relying heavily on ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Plus, it’s kid-approved, making it a fantastic option for families looking to please even the pickiest eaters.
“I made this soup for my family last week, and it was a hit! The ginger and garlic create such a comforting aroma, and the kids loved the noodles!” – Sarah J.
Step-by-step overview
Preparing this aromatic soup is a breeze. You’ll begin by sautéing garlic and ginger to release their fragrant essences, then combine that with chicken and broth, allowing everything to simmer into a delicious harmony. Finally, you’ll add the noodles and vegetables for a hearty finish, resulting in a dish that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying.
What you’ll need
To create this mouthwatering Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 piece ginger (3 inches), peeled and finely chopped
- 1 bundle scallions (6 to 8 oz), thinly sliced, divided into whites and greens
- 4 tsp kosher salt
- Freshly ground black or white pepper, to taste
- 10 cups water
- 8 oz dried ramen noodles or dried curly noodles
- 1 cup carrot, cut into thin matchsticks
- 1/4 cup black rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- Crispy chili oil, to taste
Feel free to swap the chicken thighs for breasts or use gluten-free noodles if you prefer. The recipe is versatile, ensuring that it can cater to various dietary preferences.
Directions to follow

- Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and ginger, sautéing them for about 2 minutes until aromatic.
- Next, add the chicken thighs to the pot, pouring in the 10 cups of water. Stir in salt, pepper, and scallion whites.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Once done, remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Add the ramen noodles, carrot matchsticks, black rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the noodles are cooked.
- Finally, serve hot, garnished with scallion greens and a drizzle of crispy chili oil for an extra kick!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup is all about presentation and pairing. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional scallion greens for color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal. You might also consider a side of Asian-inspired vegetable spring rolls for a little crunch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your delicious soup stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze the soup, skip adding the noodles before freezing; they tend to become mushy when thawed. Instead, just add cooked noodles when reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like star anise or a splash of lime juice for a different flavor profile.
- Test for seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and heat levels according to your preferences.
Creative twists
Looking to change things up? Try swapping the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian version, or add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic twist. You can also experiment with different types of noodles—udon or soba can be a fun alternative.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this soup?
The total prep and cooking time is about 40-50 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just ensure they are cooked through, which may require a bit more simmer time.
How long can I store this soup in the fridge?
You can keep it for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I substitute the black rice vinegar?
Yes, you can use regular rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute if black rice vinegar isn’t available.
By following this aromatic ginger garlic chicken noodle soup recipe, you’re all set to create a comforting meal that brings warmth and flavor to the table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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Aromatic Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Description
A comforting chicken noodle soup infused with aromatic ginger and garlic, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a warm meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 piece ginger (3 inches), peeled and finely chopped
- 1 bundle scallions (6 to 8 oz), thinly sliced, divided into whites and greens
- 4 tsp kosher salt
- Freshly ground black or white pepper, to taste
- 10 cups water
- 8 oz dried ramen noodles or dried curly noodles
- 1 cup carrot, cut into thin matchsticks
- 1/4 cup black rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- Crispy chili oil, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 2 minutes until aromatic.
- Add the chicken thighs to the pot, pouring in the 10 cups of water. Stir in salt, pepper, and scallion whites.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Add ramen noodles, carrot matchsticks, black rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the noodles are cooked.
- Serve hot, garnished with scallion greens and a drizzle of crispy chili oil.
Notes
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For freezing, skip adding noodles before freezing to avoid mushiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian