If you are craving a wholesome, flavorful soup that warms you from the inside out, this Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Combining tender shredded chicken, crunchy cabbage, and fragrant aromatics like ginger and garlic in a savory broth, this soup balances hearty texture with bright, fresh flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something nourishing to enjoy on a chilly day, this recipe offers a delightful way to savor Asian-inspired tastes in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, adding texture, or contributing to the soup’s inviting aroma and color. Gather these essentials to create a deeply satisfying dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
- Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing, it forms the flavorful base for the aromatics.
- Onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when softened in the pot.
- Garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant punch to ignite the soup’s flavor profile.
- Ginger (grated): Offers a warm, zesty note that brightens every spoonful.
- Chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing rich umami and body.
- Cabbage (shredded): Adds a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness while keeping things light.
- Chicken breasts (cooked and shredded): Supplies lean protein and a tender bite.
- Soy sauce: Imparts salty, savory depth that balances the broth perfectly.
- Sesame oil: Just a touch lends a toasty, nutty aroma that finishes the soup beautifully.
- Green onions (for garnish): Sprinkle on top to add crisp freshness and lively color.
How to Make Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook them gently for about 3 minutes until they soften and fill your kitchen with an irresistible, savory fragrance. This foundational step ensures the soup’s flavor base is rich and complex.
Step 2: Add Broth and Bring to Boil
Next, pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring it to a rolling boil. This salty, savory liquid is the soul of the soup, carrying all the flavors and melding the ingredients into a harmonious blend. Boiling primes the broth for the next ingredients to release their goodness.
Step 3: Incorporate Cabbage and Chicken
Once bubbling, add the shredded cabbage and cooked chicken breasts to the pot. Simmer everything together for about 10 minutes to allow the cabbage to soften just enough while keeping a bit of bite, and to heat the chicken through so every spoonful is satisfyingly warm and tender.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Now it’s time for that signature Asian flavor profile. Stir in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil over the soup. The soy sauce amps up the savory notes while the sesame oil adds a subtle, nutty warmth that makes this soup stand out. Let it cook for 2 more minutes to blend all those aromatic essences perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, turn off the heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of fresh green onions. The garnish not only adds a zing of freshness but also makes the presentation pop with color and appeal.
How to Serve Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are the star garnish here, providing a crisp bite that contrasts beautifully with the soft chicken and tender cabbage. For extra flair, a few toasted sesame seeds or a splash of sriracha can add textural interest and a spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with light sides like steamed jasmine rice or a simple cucumber salad, which keep the meal balanced and refreshing. If you want something heartier, a side of crispy spring rolls or dumplings will elevate the experience and tie nicely with the Asian flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic ceramic bowls for an inviting, homey vibe, or go elegant with small Asian-style soup cups for an intimate gathering. Adding a small wedge of lime or a handful of fresh cilantro on the side lets each guest customize their bowl, making dining interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors again without any loss in quality.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep the soup longer, freeze it in sturdy containers or freezer bags. This Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully and can be kept for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Rewarm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without scorching. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, stirring halfway through for best results.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is classic here, you could substitute cooked turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times to ensure your protein is heated through without becoming tough.
Is Napa cabbage better than regular cabbage?
Napa cabbage offers a milder, sweeter flavor and more tender texture, but regular green cabbage works perfectly too. They both provide that satisfying crunch and freshness that make this soup delicious.
Can I make the soup spicier?
For sure! Adding a dash of red chili flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or fresh chopped chili peppers during cooking can easily turn up the heat without overpowering the balanced flavors.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. This way, you keep the savory depth while accommodating dietary needs seamlessly.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?
The easiest method is using two forks to pull the meat apart gently or shredding it with your fingers once the chicken has cooled slightly. This creates tender, bite-sized pieces that blend perfectly into the soup.
Final Thoughts
Making this Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe is like inviting a warm hug to your dinner table. It’s simple yet full of layered flavors that feel both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, give this recipe a try — it’s bound to become a cherished favorite you turn to again and again when those cozy meal cravings hit.
Print
Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup is a warm, comforting dish packed with tender shredded chicken, fresh cabbage, and bold flavors from garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy-to-make soup is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal that combines flavorful broth with healthy ingredients.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for about 3 minutes until the ingredients soften and become fragrant.
- Boil broth: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil to start creating the soup base.
- Add main ingredients and simmer: Incorporate the shredded cabbage and cooked shredded chicken into the boiling broth, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Season the soup: Stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 2 minutes so the seasoning is well absorbed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving for added freshness and color.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust soy sauce to taste for saltiness preference.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or sliced fresh chili.
- Vegetarian version: substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit chicken or use tofu.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
