I love how this Ginger Scallion Chicken Soup feels light yet deeply comforting at the same time. The fresh ginger adds warmth, the scallions bring a vibrant finish, and the tender shredded chicken makes it satisfying without feeling heavy. I find it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever I want a soothing, restorative bowl.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon neutral oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 cup sliced scallions
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Directions
I start by heating the neutral oil in a large pot over medium heat. I add the diced onion and cook it for about 4–5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
Next, I stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. I cook this mixture for about 1 minute, just until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic brown.
I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Then I reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors can develop beautifully.
After that, I add the shredded chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil. I let everything simmer for another 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
I season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. I stir in most of the sliced scallions, keeping a small handful aside for garnish. Then I add the fresh lemon juice and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Finally, I ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle the remaining scallions on top before serving it hot.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add sliced mushrooms or baby spinach for extra vegetables and texture. When I want a heartier version, I stir in cooked rice or rice noodles to make it more filling. If I am craving a bit of spice, I add a dash of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes. I also like swapping the shredded chicken for shredded turkey when I have leftovers.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I reheat it, I gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat until hot. If the soup thickens slightly, I add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. I can also freeze it for up to 2 months, though I prefer adding fresh scallions after reheating for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
I often use rotisserie chicken to save time. I simply shred it and add it directly to the simmering broth.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
I replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use tofu or extra vegetables instead of chicken. The ginger and scallions still provide plenty of flavor.
Is this soup spicy?
I find that the ginger adds warmth rather than strong heat. If I want it spicy, I add chili oil or red pepper flakes.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
I make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it even more delicious.
What can I serve with this soup?
I like serving it with steamed rice, crusty bread, or a simple side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Conclusion
I enjoy how this Ginger Scallion Chicken Soup delivers comfort in such a clean and simple way. The fresh aromatics, tender chicken, and bright finish make it a recipe I return to again and again. Whenever I need something soothing, quick, and nourishing, this is the bowl I choose to make.
📖 Recipe:
Ginger Scallion Chicken Soup
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This Ginger Scallion Chicken Soup is light yet deeply comforting, featuring fresh ginger warmth, vibrant scallions, and tender shredded chicken in a nourishing broth. It is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a soothing, restorative bowl.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon neutral oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 cup sliced scallions
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat the neutral oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add the shredded chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in most of the sliced scallions, reserving some for garnish. Add the fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with remaining scallions, and serve hot.
Notes
Add sliced mushrooms or baby spinach for extra vegetables and texture.
For a heartier soup, stir in cooked rice or rice noodles before serving.
Add chili oil or red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Substitute shredded turkey for chicken if desired.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed.
Use gluten-free soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
