Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes
A delightful and aromatic Vietnamese bowl of soup featuring tender chicken and delicate glass noodles in a flavorful broth.
This Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dining table. The combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a delightful taste that will transport you to the streets of Vietnam.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Light and refreshing broth that awakens your senses
- Perfectly cooked chicken that is tender and juicy
- A satisfying meal that is quick and easy to prepare
The Essence of Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its balance of flavors, vibrant ingredients, and fresh herbs. This Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is a perfect representation of these culinary principles. The delicate glass noodles absorb the aromatic broth, while the chicken adds a hearty protein component. This dish is not just about nourishment; it also offers a sensory experience that captures the essence of Vietnam's rich culinary heritage.
At the heart of this soup are the fresh herbs and spices that elevate each spoonful. Ingredients like ginger and garlic provide warmth and depth, while lime juice adds a refreshing zing. The use of bean sprouts and green onions introduces a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft noodles and tender chicken. Each element works in harmony to create a satisfying and revitalizing meal.
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with family and friends, Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup fits the bill. It's a versatile dish that can be easily modified to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding chili peppers can elevate the flavor profile, while vegetarians can substitute chicken with tofu for a plant-based version.
This soup is also a wonderful option for meal prep. You can prepare the broth and chicken in advance, storing them separately until you're ready to enjoy a warm bowl of soup. The glass noodles can be added just before serving, ensuring they remain perfectly tender. This makes it an ideal dish for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Health Benefits of Chicken Glass Noodle Soup
This Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The broth provides hydration and essential nutrients, while the addition of fresh vegetables boosts the soup's vitamin content. Bean sprouts, for instance, are rich in antioxidants, promoting overall health and wellness.
Additionally, the spices used in this recipe, like ginger and garlic, have been known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They support the immune system and can aid digestion. Enjoying a bowl of this soup not only satisfies your hunger but also contributes to your well-being, making it a wonderful choice for any meal.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious soup.
Soup Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 oz glass noodles
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your soup.
Prepare the Noodles
Soak the glass noodles in hot water for about 15 minutes or until softened. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics
Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger to the pot. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
Add Broth and Noodles
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the soaked glass noodles and let them cook in the broth for about 5 minutes.
Finish with Vegetables
Stir in the bean sprouts and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup!
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To ensure the perfect texture for your glass noodles, be careful not to over-soak them. A quick 15-minute soak in hot water is usually sufficient. If they become too soft, they can break apart during cooking, which may affect the overall presentation of your soup.
When cooking the chicken, consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's cooked fully but still tender and juicy. Avoid overcooking to maintain its flavor and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup, consider providing a variety of garnishes. Fresh lime wedges, sliced chili peppers, and additional herbs like Thai basil or mint can enhance the flavor and allow each person to customize their bowl to their liking.
Pair the soup with a light salad or spring rolls for a complete Vietnamese dining experience. This combination not only adds variety to your meal but also complements the refreshing flavors of the soup beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best to keep the noodles separate from the broth if possible, as they can absorb too much liquid and lose their texture when reheated.
To reheat, simply warm the broth on the stove until it's hot, then add the noodles and other ingredients. This method helps retain the soup's original flavors and ensures a delicious meal even the next day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute glass noodles with rice noodles or egg noodles.
→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
→ Can leftovers be stored?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup can be served on its own or with a side of spring rolls for a complete meal.
Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup
A delightful and aromatic Vietnamese bowl of soup featuring tender chicken and delicate glass noodles in a flavorful broth.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Taste the World Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 oz glass noodles
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Soak the glass noodles in hot water for about 15 minutes or until softened. Drain and set aside.
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger to the pot. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the soaked glass noodles and let them cook in the broth for about 5 minutes.
Stir in the bean sprouts and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g