Introduction

Chinese Chicken Corn Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that embodies the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine. With its rich, savory broth, tender chicken, and sweet corn, this soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main dish, it’s sure to please your palate and leave you feeling satisfied.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 300 grams, finely shredded
Sweet corn – 1 cup, fresh or canned
Chicken broth – 4 cups
Water – 1 cup
Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons
Eggs – 2, lightly beaten
Spring onions – 2, chopped
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste

Prep Time

Total prep time for this soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes the time taken to shred the chicken and prepare the vegetables.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cooking time is about 20 minutes, making the total time for this recipe around 35 minutes. This delicious soup yields around 4 servings, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Begin by taking the chicken breasts and cutting them into smaller pieces. You can either shred the chicken or chop it into small cubes, depending on your preference.

Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornflour. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 15-20 minutes for optimal flavor.

Cook the Chicken

In a large pan or wok, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Broth

In the same pan, add the chicken stock and bring it to a gentle boil. You can also add water if you want a lighter broth.

Add Corn and Seasoning

Stir in the sweet corn (canned or fresh), and season the broth with salt and white pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture to the soup, stirring continuously until the soup thickens slightly.

Incorporate Eggs

While the soup is simmering, slowly pour in beaten eggs, stirring gently in a circular motion. This will create ribbon-like strands of egg in the soup.

Add Chicken Back

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and allow everything to heat through for a couple of minutes.

Final Touches

Before serving, stir in chopped green onions for freshness and a pop of color. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve the Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Notes

Chicken Options

You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just shred it and mix it in at the end.

Egg Cooking Technique

For a smoother egg consistency, make sure to stir the soup gently as you add the beaten eggs.

Storage Instructions

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Thickening Alternatives

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more cornstarch slurry, or let the soup simmer longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors.

Cook techniques

Thickening the Soup

Using cornstarch is an effective method to thicken your chicken corn soup. Mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup, ensuring a smooth consistency.

Shred Chicken Properly

To achieve tender, bite-sized pieces, cook the chicken first and then shred it while it’s still warm using two forks. This helps retain the moisture and flavor.

Creating a Flavor Base

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in the pot. This will create a fragrant base for the soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Incorporating Corn

Using fresh corn kernels, frozen, or even canned corn can add sweetness and texture to the soup. Ensure they are added at the right time to preserve their crunch.

Using Eggs for Texture

Beating eggs and swirling them into the hot soup gives it a beautiful, silky texture. Pour the beaten egg slowly to create fine strands.

Seasoning to Taste

Adjust the seasoning with salt and white pepper throughout the cooking process. Taste frequently to ensure the flavor is balanced.

FAQ

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference for tenderness and flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian alternative.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so without the egg. Add the egg fresh when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with rice or crispy bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it as an appetizer.

Conclusion

The Chinese Chicken Corn Soup is a delightful dish that offers a warm and comforting experience. Its blend of tender chicken, sweet corn, and aromatic seasonings makes it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a wholesome meal, this soup brings both flavor and nourishment to the table, showcasing the essence of Chinese cuisine in every spoonful.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Pair your soup with Sweet and Sour Chicken for a lovely balance of flavors. The tangy and sweet notes complement the richness of the soup.

Fried Rice

A side of Fried Rice is a great addition, allowing you to enjoy the heartiness of rice with the flavors of the chicken and corn soup.

Spring Rolls

Spring Rolls can elevate your meal with their crispy texture and fresh ingredients, providing a delightful contrast to the warm soup.

Steamed Dumplings

Serve Steamed Dumplings alongside the soup for a satisfying and fulfilling meal. The tender dumplings will soak up the flavors beautifully.

Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce

A simple side of Chinese Broccoli tossed in oyster sauce adds a nutritious and vibrant element to your meal, balancing the richness of the soup.

Sesame Chicken Salad

A light and refreshing Sesame Chicken Salad can provide a crisp, cool counterpart to the warm soup, enhancing your dining experience.