This Chicken Soba Noodle Soup is warm and comforting! It features tender chicken and chewy soba noodles in a yummy broth that’s full of flavor. Perfect for chilly days!
I love how quick it comes together. Just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. Plus, slurping noodles is always fun, right? It’s like a tasty hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: I suggest using low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness. If you’re vegetarian or want to lighten things up, vegetable broth works great too.
Soba Noodles: These thin buckwheat noodles add a unique flavor. You can substitute with whole wheat spaghetti if needed, but be aware that the taste may differ slightly.
Shiitake or Cremini Mushrooms: Both offer a lovely earthy flavor. If they’re not available, try button mushrooms or skip them entirely if you prefer a lighter soup.
Bok Choy: This leafy vegetable adds a nice crunch and freshness. If it’s hard to find, you can use spinach or kale in similar amounts. Just cook it until wilted.
Soft-Boiled Eggs: They add richness and protein. If you’re short on time, you can skip them or simply use hard-boiled eggs instead!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from Ginger and Garlic?
When using ginger and garlic, it’s crucial to cook them just enough to release their flavors without burning them. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your sesame oil over medium heat—too hot can scorch them.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for only 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Keep stirring gently to ensure even cooking.
This way, you’ll get the best aroma and flavor to infuse your soup! Happy cooking!
Chicken Soba Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and grated
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 4 oz shiitake or cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked breast)
- 4 oz soba noodles
- 2 cups baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 soft-boiled eggs, halved
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or a pinch of chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, making a total of approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn!
2. Simmer the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is the base for your soup, so let it get nice and warm!
3. Add Vegetables:
Add the sliced carrots and mushrooms to the pot. Let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and release their flavors.
4. Stir in Chicken and Season:
Stir in the shredded chicken and the soy sauce. Taste your broth and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you’d like a little heat!
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the soba noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 4-5 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
6. Add Greens:
In the last minute of cooking, toss in the halved bok choy and fresh spinach. They only need a moment to wilt perfectly into your soup.
7. Serve it Up:
Turn off the heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Enjoy the aroma wafting up as you prepare to serve!
8. Garnish & Enjoy:
Top each bowl with the soft-boiled egg halves, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. It looks as good as it tastes!
9. Ready to Slurp!
Serve your delicious Chicken Soba Noodle Soup right away with chopsticks and a soup spoon. Enjoy your nourishing, flavorful meal!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the broth towards the end to warm through.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize your soup by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so everything is tender but not mushy!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Definitely! To make it vegetarian or vegan, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add more tofu or mushrooms for protein.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it from getting too thick.
