Description
Chicken Khao Soi is a flavorful Northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, fragrant broth made with red curry paste, turmeric, and coconut milk. Served over egg noodles and garnished with fresh herbs, crispy shallots, and lime, this dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Liquids
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 400 ml coconut milk (about 1 can)
Noodles
- 2 cups egg noodles (fresh or dried)
Flavorings & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 1 tbsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Garnishes
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2–3 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Crispy shallots, for garnish
- Optional: sliced red chilies
- Optional: pickled mustard greens
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.
- Make the Curry Base: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the red curry paste and turmeric powder, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and well combined with the oil.
- Add Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Liquids & Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook gently for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Season the Broth: Stir in the fish sauce and brown sugar. Taste the broth and adjust seasonings as needed for a balanced savory and slightly sweet flavor.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked egg noodles evenly among four serving bowls. Ladle the hot curry soup with chicken over the noodles.
- Garnish & Serve: Top each bowl with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, crispy shallots, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Add sliced red chilies or pickled mustard greens if desired for extra flavor and heat.
Notes
- If using dried egg noodles, be sure not to overcook them to keep the texture perfect.
- Vegetarian option: substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs briefly in a little curry paste before cooking.
- Adjust the curry paste quantity to control the spiciness level.
- Crispy shallots add a delightful crunch and texture contrast.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop.