Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu – Light & Healthy

Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu has been a beloved comfort dish in my kitchen for years, and it’s one of the recipes closest to my heart. When I first began writing recipes for my About page, I wanted to share not only the flavors of Thailand but also the personal story of why I fell in love with them. Growing up, food was always about connection gathering family around the table, discovering new tastes, and recreating dishes that carried warmth and simplicity. This soup was one of the first Thai recipes I mastered, and it quickly became part of my weekly rotation.

On my culinary journey, I found that the secret to Thai cooking lies in balance—sweet, savory, salty, and aromatic notes coming together in harmony. That’s why Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is so special: it delivers lightness while still being hearty, nutritious, and brimming with flavor. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a restaurant-quality Thai clear soup at home, you’re in for a treat.

In this guide, you’ll not only learn the step-by-step process for making Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu but also discover variations like Thai clear soup with minced pork or vegetarian versions. Along the way, I’ll share cooking tips, cultural insights, and answers to your most common questions. By the end, you’ll feel confident making this wholesome soup anytime cravings strike.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

The beauty of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Most of these items can be found in your local grocery store, though a trip to an Asian market can elevate the flavors even more. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
• 5 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon Maggi Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground white pepper
• 1 bunch bok choy, leaves and stems, chopped
• 3 green onions, large slices
• 1 cup fresh parsley, stemmed
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, stemmed
• 1 14-ounce package silken tofu, cubed
• 1 large boneless-skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced

Optional: steamed white rice on the side for serving

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Chicken broth: Homemade broth adds richness, but store-bought works fine. Vegetable broth can make this recipe vegetarian.
• Tofu: Silken tofu gives a delicate texture, but firm tofu holds its shape better if you prefer.
• Chicken: You can swap chicken breast for minced chicken to create a twist similar to Thai clear soup with egg tofu and minced chicken.
• Fish sauce: If you’re vegetarian, replace it with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative.
• Maggi seasoning: A small but mighty ingredient that adds umami depth; substitute with light soy sauce if unavailable.

This combination creates the authentic base of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu, while still leaving room for customization depending on your taste. For more recipes check out this guide.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

Now let’s get cooking. Making Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is a simple, rewarding process that doesn’t require advanced skills—just patience and good ingredients.

1. Prepare the base: Heat the canola oil in a Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant. This step infuses the oil with flavor.
2. Add the vegetables: Toss in the sliced carrots and sauté until slightly softened. The carrots add natural sweetness and body to the broth.
3. Build the broth: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in Maggi seasoning, fish sauce, and white pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer partially covered for 10 minutes.
4. Add the greens: Stir in the chopped bok choy, green onions, parsley, and cilantro. Simmer until wilted, about 3 minutes.
5. Finish with proteins: Just before serving, add in the cubed silken tofu and sliced chicken breast. Stir gently and let cook in the hot broth until the chicken is fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot. Pair with steamed white rice for a complete meal.

This recipe proves that Thai clear soup doesn’t need to be complicated—it’s about layering flavors step by step. By the time you serve it, the aroma of fresh herbs, garlic, and chicken broth will fill your kitchen.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

Cooking Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu may look straightforward, but a few little chef tricks can make the difference between an average bowl of soup and a restaurant-quality dish. Over the years, I’ve discovered ways to enhance the aroma, texture, and balance of this beautiful soup. Here are my best tips:

Use Fresh Herbs at the End

One of the key secrets of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is the bright, refreshing taste of fresh parsley and cilantro. Always add them toward the end of cooking so they retain their vibrant color and flavor instead of wilting down to nothing.

Don’t Overcook the Tofu

Silken tofu is delicate. If you stir too vigorously or leave it boiling for too long, it will break apart. Add the tofu just before serving and stir gently to keep those beautiful cubes intact.

Thinly Slice the Chicken

For Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu, thin slices of chicken breast cook in just minutes. If your slices are too thick, they might turn tough before fully cooking. Aim for paper-thin slices for tender, juicy results.

Adjust the Seasoning Gradually

Fish sauce and Maggi seasoning add umami depth, but too much can overwhelm the broth. Always taste as you go. Remember, Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu should be light and delicate, not overly salty.

Pair with Rice for a Heartier Meal

In Thailand, soups like this are often enjoyed with rice on the side. A small scoop of steamed white jasmine rice turns your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu into a complete, filling meal.

Optional Additions

• Add a dash of lime juice for a citrusy lift.
• Toss in some mushrooms for an earthy depth.
• Drop in a chili or two if you like spice.

These tricks ensure that your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu always comes out flavorful, satisfying, and perfectly balanced.

Variations of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

One of the best things about Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences, dietary needs, or even what you already have in your fridge. Here are a few popular variations:

Thai Clear Soup with Egg Tofu and Minced Chicken

If you prefer a richer texture, swap silken tofu for egg tofu. Combine it with minced chicken for a comforting variation that’s widely enjoyed in Thai households. This version keeps the essence of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu but adds extra protein and creaminess.

Authentic Thai Clear Soup with Egg Tofu and Minced Chicken

For a more traditional flavor, prepare this variation using homemade chicken broth, egg tofu, and freshly ground white pepper. The authentic method enhances the fragrance and richness, making it taste just like something you’d order at a Bangkok eatery.

Thai Clear Soup with Minced Pork

If chicken isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with minced pork. This still gives you the lightness of the broth but with a heartier and slightly richer taste. Many families in Thailand enjoy this pork-based variation on busy weeknights.

Vegetarian Thai Clear Soup Recipe

For a plant-based alternative, skip the chicken and fish sauce. Use vegetable broth, firm tofu, mushrooms, and soy sauce for seasoning. This vegetarian Thai clear soup is light yet satisfying, perfect for anyone who loves fresh herbs and clean flavors.

Thai Clear Soup Ingredients with Extra Veggies

Want to load up on vegetables? Add baby corn, snow peas, or broccoli. The broth is mild enough to accommodate a wide range of vegetables, so you can customize based on what’s in season.

These variations prove that Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is not just a recipe—it’s a canvas for creativity.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

One of the reasons I love Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is that it’s nourishing as well as delicious. This dish is low in calories, high in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and herbs.

Estimated Nutrition per Serving (without rice)

• Calories: 220–250
• Protein: 22–25 g
• Fat: 9–11 g
• Carbohydrates: 10–12 g
• Fiber: 2–3 g

Health Benefits

• Chicken: A lean source of protein that supports muscle repair and energy.
• Tofu: Rich in plant-based protein and isoflavones, which may promote heart health.
• Bok Choy: Packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants that support immunity.
• Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Cilantro & Parsley: Fresh herbs that aid digestion and provide a dose of vitamin A and C.

Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is an excellent option if you’re looking for something filling but not heavy. It’s also perfect for those who want a wholesome, balanced meal without compromising flavor.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Instructions for Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

One of the things I love most about Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is how practical it is for meal prep. Whether you’re planning ahead for a busy week or cooking for a family dinner, this soup adapts beautifully. To make sure your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu tastes as fresh and flavorful as possible even after storage, here are detailed tips you can follow.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can absolutely prepare Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu in advance. The broth, garlic, carrots, and seasonings can be simmered a day or two ahead of time. Once you’ve built this flavorful base, you can store it in the fridge and simply reheat it before adding the tofu, chicken, and fresh greens. This way, your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu still has that freshly cooked taste without requiring you to start from scratch.

Another option is to prep the chicken breast slices and cubed tofu in separate containers ahead of time. That way, when it’s time to cook, you can drop them into the hot broth and have Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu ready in just minutes.

Storage Tips

If you’ve made a big pot of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu and can’t finish it all in one sitting, don’t worry—it stores well. Transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be mindful that the tofu will continue to absorb some broth and become softer over time. For best results, try to separate the broth from the tofu and chicken before storing, then combine them again when reheating.

When reheating, gently warm Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu on the stovetop over medium heat. Avoid boiling the tofu repeatedly, as it may crumble. A gentle simmer keeps the soup delicious and fresh.

Freezing Instructions

Yes, you can freeze Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu, but there are a few things to keep in mind. The broth itself freezes perfectly, but tofu and bok choy don’t hold up as well once thawed. If you plan to freeze Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu, make the broth first, let it cool, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the broth, then add fresh tofu, chicken, and herbs.

Freezing just the broth ensures that your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu will taste as fresh as if you had made it that same day. This technique works well for busy families who want to enjoy authentic Thai flavors without having to cook everything from scratch on weeknights.

By planning ahead and using these methods, you’ll never have to compromise on the quality of your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

Even though Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is a beginner-friendly recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final taste and texture. Let’s go through them so you can avoid them in your kitchen.

Overcooking the Chicken

One of the biggest mistakes with Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu is cooking the chicken for too long. Thinly sliced chicken cooks very quickly in hot broth—about 5 minutes. Any longer, and you risk dry, chewy chicken.

Adding Herbs Too Early

Another frequent mistake is adding parsley and cilantro at the beginning. Doing so causes them to lose their bright color and fresh aroma. For Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu, always add herbs toward the end of cooking.

Boiling the Tofu

Silken tofu is fragile. If you let your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu boil vigorously after adding tofu, the cubes will disintegrate. Keep the heat gentle to maintain their shape.

Overseasoning with Fish Sauce

Fish sauce is potent and can quickly overpower your Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu. Always start small and taste as you go. Balance is the essence of Thai cuisine.

Forgetting to Skim the Broth

When simmering the chicken broth for Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu, a little foam may rise to the top. Skim it off with a spoon to keep the broth clear and light instead of cloudy.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures that every bowl of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu you serve is fragrant, balanced, and beautiful.

Cultural and Historical Background of Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu

Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu isn’t just a recipe—it’s a reflection of Thai culture and the tradition of balancing flavors in every dish. In Thai households, clear soups are often served as part of a family meal rather than as a standalone dish. They are considered comfort food, especially when someone is feeling under the weather.

This type of soup is known in Thailand as Kaeng Jeut, which literally translates to “bland curry” or “plain soup.” Despite the translation, it’s anything but bland. Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu gets its flavor from garlic, white pepper, fish sauce, and fresh herbs rather than heavy spices. Its lightness makes it a perfect complement to stronger dishes like spicy curries or stir-fries.

Tofu became part of Thai cuisine through Chinese influence centuries ago, and it blends seamlessly into soups like this one. Chicken is often the protein of choice because it’s lean, affordable, and accessible, making Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu a staple in both city and countryside kitchens across Thailand.

Fun fact: in many Thai families, this soup is one of the first dishes children learn to cook because it’s simple yet teaches the fundamentals of Thai seasoning. By preparing Easy Thai Clear Soup with Chicken and Tofu, you’re embracing a tradition that has nourished generations.

Serving Suggestions

A clear soup like this is versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of Thai dishes. While it can certainly be enjoyed on its own for a light meal, the traditional way is to serve it alongside rice and other flavorful plates so that it balances out stronger, spicier flavors.

With Jasmine Rice

In Thailand, nearly every meal is served with rice. A simple bowl of fragrant jasmine rice works perfectly here. Spoon the soup over the rice for a comforting combination, or enjoy them separately to savor the clean flavors of the broth.

Paired with Stir-Fries

Because this dish is light, it goes hand in hand with stir-fried meals. Think Thai basil chicken, garlic shrimp, or a quick tofu and vegetable stir-fry. The soup refreshes the palate in between bites of richly seasoned stir-fry dishes.

Side Dish for Curry Nights

If you’re planning a curry night with red curry or green curry, a clear soup balances the richness of coconut milk–based sauces. Its delicate broth acts almost like a reset button, making sure every bite of curry still tastes bold and exciting.

With Spring Rolls

For a lighter Thai-inspired spread, serve the soup with vegetable spring rolls or shrimp rolls. The crunch of the rolls and the warmth of the soup complement each other beautifully.

Drinks to Pair With

To round out the meal, consider pairing the soup with Thai iced tea, iced lemongrass tea, or even a refreshing coconut water. These drinks enhance the tropical, herb-forward flavors of the meal.

The versatility of this soup makes it suitable for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even as a first course for a more elaborate Thai-inspired feast.

Many home cooks searching for variations of this recipe often explore different versions and ingredient combinations. Here are some related searches and how they naturally fit into the cooking journey:

Thai Clear Soup with Egg Tofu and Minced Chicken Recipe

This variation adds egg tofu and minced chicken, creating a heartier dish that’s still light on the palate. Egg tofu brings creaminess, while minced chicken distributes flavor evenly throughout the broth.

Authentic Thai Clear Soup with Egg Tofu and Minced Chicken

Authenticity often comes down to technique. Using homemade chicken broth, freshly ground white pepper, and traditional fish sauce makes this version stand out as closer to what’s enjoyed in Thai households.

Easy Thai Clear Soup with Egg Tofu and Minced Chicken

For busy weeknights, this quick version substitutes store-bought broth and pre-sliced tofu while keeping the familiar flavors intact. It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t have to take hours.

Thai Clear Soup Recipe Vegetarian

A vegetarian version replaces chicken with firm tofu, mushrooms, and sometimes glass noodles. It’s a lighter option that still delivers depth of flavor thanks to herbs and seasonings.

Thai Clear Soup Chicken

This is one of the most common searches, referring to a simple chicken-based version without tofu. The result is a warming broth that highlights the clean, savory taste of chicken simmered with herbs.

Thai Clear Soup with Minced Pork

Popular in many Thai households, this variation uses minced pork as the protein. It’s slightly richer and pairs well with rice and other mild dishes.

Thai Clear Soup Ingredients

Typical ingredients include garlic, white pepper, Maggi seasoning or soy sauce, fish sauce, tofu, chicken, and greens like bok choy or napa cabbage. The combination may vary by household, but the goal is always balance.

These related searches show how versatile and beloved this soup is across different cooking traditions and preferences.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply satisfying about preparing a soup that’s light yet nourishing, simple yet layered with flavor. This dish is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of the heart of Thai cooking: balance, freshness, and comfort. Whether you make it for a quick weeknight meal or as part of a bigger family spread, it will always bring warmth to the table.

If you haven’t tried making it yet, now is the time. Gather the fresh herbs, slice your vegetables thin, and enjoy the process of building a broth that is as comforting as it is wholesome. And once you’ve made it, don’t forget to share it with loved ones—that’s when food truly becomes memorable.

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