Asian Chicken Soup with Cabbage

This Asian Chicken Soup with Cabbage is a light yet deeply flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, and aromatic ginger, all simmered in a savory broth with a touch of sweetness from hoisin sauce. It’s a quick and comforting meal that’s perfect for when you want something warm, satisfying, and nourishing in just 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of heat. With the subtle richness of toasted sesame oil, the zing of ginger and garlic, and the depth from soy sauce and hoisin, every spoonful is packed with flavor. It’s also a low-calorie, low-carb option, making it a great choice for those looking for a lighter meal without sacrificing taste. The addition of cabbage provides a satisfying crunch, while the shredded chicken offers a hearty texture that makes this soup feel like a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Chili paste (optional, to taste)

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons natural rice vinegar

• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded (such as rotisserie)

• 2 cups shredded cabbage

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro or jalapeño slices, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the toasted sesame oil in a stockpot over medium heat.

2. Add the minced ginger, garlic, and chili paste (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce. Whisk to combine.

4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and cabbage to the pot.

6. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer until the cabbage is tender, about 5 minutes.

7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or jalapeño slices, if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add noodles: If you prefer a heartier soup, you can add rice noodles or soba noodles to the broth.

• Make it spicy: If you love heat, increase the amount of chili paste or add sliced fresh jalapeños to the soup.

• Add veggies: You can incorporate additional vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of the soup.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth if necessary to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly and shred them before adding them to the soup.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

3. How can I make this soup spicier?

For extra heat, add more chili paste or fresh sliced jalapeños. You can also use spicy chili oil for a different flavor.

4. Can I use other types of cabbage?

While green cabbage is used in this recipe, you can also try napa cabbage or even kale for a slightly different texture and flavor.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Just be aware that the cabbage may lose some of its texture upon thawing.

6. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe, adding both flavor and convenience.

7. How do I know when the soup is done?

The soup is ready when the cabbage is tender, which usually takes about 5 minutes of simmering. The chicken should be heated through and the broth well-combined with the seasonings.

8. Can I substitute the hoisin sauce?

Yes, if you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can substitute with a mix of soy sauce and a little honey or brown sugar for sweetness, though the flavor may not be exactly the same.

9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, be sure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.

10. How can I make this soup more filling?

You can add cooked rice or noodles to make the soup more filling, or serve it with a side of crusty bread.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Soup with Cabbage is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s light on calories but big on taste. With minimal prep time and just a few simple ingredients, this soup is a perfect go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer, it’s sure to warm you up and leave you feeling nourished. Enjoy!

Print