In Chinese cooking, soups are more than just appetizers – they’re nourishing tonics meant to balance the body and bring comfort to the soul. One of the simplest yet most beloved is garlic chicken soup, a dish often enjoyed at home during the cooler months or when someone needs a gentle boost of energy.
Generous amounts of garlic are added – sometimes left whole, sometimes lightly crushed – releasing a mellow sweetness as they cook. The broth is often enhanced with ginger, goji berries, red dates, or a splash of Shaoxing wine, ingredients that not only add depth but are also prized in Chinese tradition for their health benefits.
Served on its own or with a side of rice, Chinese garlic chicken soup is the kind of dish that speaks to the heart – simple, healing, and deeply nourishing.
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken (thighs or drumsticks)
- 200 g garlic cloves (whole, peeled — or more if you're a garlic lover!)
- 1.5 L water or chicken broth
- 1–2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- A few slices of fresh ginger
Instructions
1. Pre-boil the Chicken (Optional but recommended):
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add the chicken and boil for 2–3 minutes to remove impurities.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the garlic cloves and ginger slices.
- Sauté gently for 2–3 minutes until fragrant, stirring often - be careful not to let the garlic brown.
3. Simmer the Soup:
- Add the pre-boiled chicken back to the pot.
- Pour in the water or chicken broth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and more ginger or herbs if desired.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fall-apart tender and the garlic is soft and mellow.
4. Finishing Touches:
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it if desired, and return it to the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- For a deeper garlic flavor, mash some of the softened garlic cloves directly into the broth.
- Serve hot with rice, noodles, or crusty bread.
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