Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes
A fragrant and comforting bowl of Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup that warms the soul and pleases the palate.
This Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, savory broth, and delicate glass noodles. The fragrant herbs and spices elevate the dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Aromatic broth that fills the kitchen with delicious scents
- Tender chicken paired with silky glass noodles
- Healthy and satisfying, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner
The Essence of Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and the harmonious balance of herbs and spices. At the heart of many dishes is the broth, which serves as the foundation for a variety of soups, including this Chicken Glass Noodle Soup. The combination of aromatic herbs, tender chicken, and silky glass noodles creates a comforting dish that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cooking.
In this recipe, the broth is infused with garlic, ginger, and fish sauce, delivering a depth of flavor that is both comforting and invigorating. The use of fresh herbs not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the dish's visual appeal, making it a feast for the senses. Each bowl represents a warm hug, perfect for any occasion.
A Versatile Comfort Food
This Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is incredibly versatile. While it shines as a main dish, it can also be served as a starter for a larger meal, making it suitable for gatherings and special occasions. The soup can be easily customized to cater to different tastes; feel free to add more vegetables like bok choy or mushrooms, or spice it up with a splash of chili oil.
Moreover, this dish is perfect for meal prep. The broth and noodles can be prepared in advance and stored separately, making it easy to assemble a quick and satisfying meal during busy weeknights. Simply reheat the broth, add the noodles, and top with shredded chicken and fresh herbs for a delicious dinner in minutes.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
This Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The whole chicken provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and basil not only enhances flavor but also adds a variety of vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.
Glass noodles, made from mung bean starch or sweet potato starch, are a gluten-free alternative to traditional noodles. They are lower in calories and provide a unique texture that absorbs the rich flavors of the broth beautifully. Together, these ingredients create a nutritious meal that is both satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 200g glass noodles
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, and basil) for garnish
For Serving
- Lime wedges
- Sliced chili (optional)
- Bean sprouts (optional)
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother workflow.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a large pot, add the whole chicken and cover with water. Bring to a boil, skimming off any foam. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Make the Broth
Remove the chicken and set aside to cool. Add the sliced onion, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
Cook the Glass Noodles
In a separate pot, cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bones and discard the skin and bones.
Combine and Serve
Add the shredded chicken back into the broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the hot broth over the cooked glass noodles and garnish with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sliced chili if desired.
Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup!
Tips for the Perfect Broth
To achieve a flavorful broth, it's important to simmer the chicken low and slow. This allows the flavors to develop fully and results in a rich, aromatic base for your soup. Skimming off any foam during the boiling process also helps ensure a clear broth without impurities.
Consider adding a few whole spices, such as star anise or a cinnamon stick, during the simmering process. These spices will enhance the broth's complexity and provide an authentic Vietnamese flavor that elevates the dish.
Serving Suggestions
When serving the soup, don’t forget the garnishes! Fresh herbs, lime wedges, and optional sliced chili not only add a burst of flavor but also brighten the dish visually. Each diner can customize their bowl to suit their taste preferences, making the meal interactive and enjoyable.
For an added layer of texture, consider serving the soup with crispy fried shallots or crushed peanuts on top. This combination will provide a delightful crunch that complements the silky noodles and tender chicken, enhancing the overall eating experience.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the broth, noodles, and chicken separately in airtight containers. This will help maintain the integrity of the noodles, preventing them from becoming soggy. Properly stored, the broth can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, while the noodles and chicken can be kept for 3 days.
To reheat, gently warm the broth in a pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the cooked noodles and shredded chicken, allowing everything to heat through. Serve immediately with fresh herbs and lime for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes just as good as when it was first made.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another type of noodle?
Yes, you can substitute glass noodles with rice noodles or even egg noodles if you prefer.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and glass noodles.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños or a few drops of chili oil for an extra kick.
→ Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make the broth and cook the chicken in advance. Just reheat and add the noodles when ready to serve.
Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup
A fragrant and comforting bowl of Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup that warms the soul and pleases the palate.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: World Cuisine Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 200g glass noodles
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, and basil) for garnish
For Serving
- Lime wedges
- Sliced chili (optional)
- Bean sprouts (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, add the whole chicken and cover with water. Bring to a boil, skimming off any foam. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken and set aside to cool. Add the sliced onion, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
In a separate pot, cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bones and discard the skin and bones.
Add the shredded chicken back into the broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the hot broth over the cooked glass noodles and garnish with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sliced chili if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g