Name: Chinese Chicken Corn Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken breast, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup sweet corn kernels; 1/2 cup creamed corn; 1 egg, beaten; 2 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 1/4 cup water; 1/2 tsp white pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp ginger, grated; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tsp sesame oil

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Introduction:

When the weather turns chilly or you’re in need of a quick, comforting meal, there’s no better option than a bowl of homemade Chicken Corn Soup Recipe. This classic Chinese recipe has been warming hearts and nourishing bodies for generations. Whether you’re looking to recreate a family favorite or introduce something new to your dinner table, this dish offers the perfect balance of warmth, flavor, and nutritional benefits.

But it’s more than just a soup; it’s a tradition. The blend of tender chicken, sweet corn, and savory broth is soothing to the soul, making it a go-to choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. As you prepare this Chicken Corn Soup at home, you’ll quickly realize why it’s a beloved dish in Chinese households worldwide.

Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and explore how to make it, the health benefits it offers, and tips on how to customize it for your personal taste.

A bowl of warm chicken and corn soup garnished with chopped green onions, with a black spoon resting inside.

What is Chinese Corn Soup with Chicken?

Overview of the Dish

Chicken Corn Soup is a light yet flavorful Chinese soup, often served as an appetizer or light meal. It’s made from a few simple ingredients, with chicken and sweet corn being the stars of the show. The base is usually a savory chicken broth, infused with ginger and a hint of soy sauce, which creates a deliciously comforting flavor.

What makes this soup particularly special is its versatility. You can make it with fresh chicken, use canned corn, or add extra vegetables to suit your preferences. The simplicity of the dish allows it to shine with minimal effort.

Historical Origins

Chicken Corn Soup has roots in traditional Chinese cuisine, but it has evolved over time and can now be found in homes around the world. It’s especially popular in Cantonese cuisine, where the soup is often prepared with minimal ingredients to highlight the natural flavors. Over the years, the dish has been embraced in various regions and has even been adapted into different variations making it a staple in Chinese food culture.

It’s believed that the dish’s origins stem from the need for a light, easy-to-make soup that could be both nourishing and easy on the stomach. This soup, rich in proteins, vitamins, and natural sugars from corn, offers a healthful way to fuel the body, especially when recovering from illness or needing something easy to digest.

Ingredients for Chicken Corn Soup: A Simple Yet Flavorful List

Essential Ingredients

Making this Chicken Corn Soup Recipe is surprisingly simple, and you’ll find that the ingredients are easy to source:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Chicken breast	1-2 pieces (300g)	Skinless and boneless for easy shredding
Sweet corn	1 can (300g)	Or fresh corn kernels (about 2 cups)
Chicken broth	4 cups (1 liter)	Homemade or store-bought
Eggs	2	Beaten
Fresh ginger	1-inch piece	Thinly sliced or grated
Cornstarch	2 tbsp	Used to thicken the soup
Soy sauce	1 tbsp	For seasoning
Salt and pepper	To taste	Adjust based on preference
Sesame oil	1 tsp	For a hint of aroma

A wooden board displaying key ingredients for chicken and corn soup, including eggs, shredded chicken, corn, salt, sugar, and fresh parsley.

Optional Add-ins for Personalizing the Soup

One of the great things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some optional ingredients you can add:

Mushrooms : (shiitake or button) for an earthy flavor.
Bok choy or napa cabbage : for added texture and nutrition.
Chili peppers : for a bit of heat, if you prefer your soup spicy.
Tofu : for a vegetarian alternative to chicken.
Garlic or green onions : for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Chicken Corn Soup from Scratch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your own Chicken Corn Soup at home:

Prepare the Chicken:
- Begin by boiling the chicken in a large pot of water until it’s fully cooked (about 15-20 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Simmer the Soup Base:
- In the same pot, add your chicken broth, fresh ginger, and sweet corn. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Thicken the Soup:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup while stirring. This will help thicken the broth and give it a silky texture.
Add the Chicken and Seasoning:
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Then, season the soup with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well.
Egg Drop:
- Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently in one direction. This will create those signature silky egg ribbons throughout the soup.
Finishing Touches:
- Drizzle in some sesame oil for a nutty fragrance and stir gently. You can also garnish the soup with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

A bowl of golden chicken and corn soup with shredded chicken, egg ribbons, and chopped green onions, served with a black spoon.

Health Benefits of Chicken Corn Soup

While Chicken Corn Soup is undeniably delicious, it’s also a nourishing dish that offers several health benefits. Let’s break it down:

Nutritional Value

This soup is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues in your body. The chicken provides a good amount of amino acids that support your immune system, and the sweet corn adds a dose of healthy carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins.

Protein: The chicken breast offers a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and maintenance.
Fiber: The corn provides fiber that supports healthy digestion.
Vitamins: Sweet corn is high in vitamins such as Vitamin C, folate, and niacin, all of which help boost your immune system and energy levels.

Why It’s Great for Boosting Immunity

This soup also contains ginger, a powerful root known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger can help reduce symptoms of nausea, improve digestion, and even boost your immune system. Combined with the proteins and vitamins from the chicken and corn, this soup becomes a perfect option for maintaining a strong, healthy body.

Variations of Chinese Corn Soup

Regional Differences

While Chicken Corn Soup is fairly straightforward, you’ll find subtle variations depending on the region of China. For example:

Cantonese Style: The Cantonese version of this soup might include chicken feet or other chicken parts, which add a rich flavor and collagen to the broth.
Shandong Style: In Shandong, the soup is often made with a thicker base, with vegetables like bok choy added for extra texture.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Versions

If you’re looking for a vegan version, you can replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To make the soup gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari, which is naturally gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Perfect Sides for Chicken Corn Soup

Chicken Corn Soup is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few other dishes. Here are some great options:

Steamed Dumplings: Soft, pillowy dumplings filled with pork or vegetables complement the soup’s light texture.
Spring Rolls: These crispy, crunchy appetizers are a fun contrast to the smoothness of the soup.
Steamed Rice: A simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice is a perfect accompaniment to this soup, making the meal more filling.

Best Drinks to Serve With It

For drinks, a light, refreshing green tea or jasmine tea is an ideal choice to enhance the flavors. If you’re in the mood for something a bit stronger, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will complement the soup’s mild flavors without overpowering it.

Chicken Corn Soup Recipe FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Corn Soup in advance?
- Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
How do I thicken the soup without cornstarch?
- You can use alternatives like arrowroot powder or potato starch. Simply mix with water and add to the soup in the same way as cornstarch.
Can I freeze Chicken Corn Soup?
- Freezing is not ideal due to the egg ribbons. However, you can freeze the broth and add the eggs fresh when reheating.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
- Absolutely! Try tofu for a vegetarian version, or shrimp for a seafood twist.

Conclusion: The Joy of Homemade Chicken Corn Soup

A close-up of a bowl of creamy chicken and corn soup, filled with shredded chicken, corn kernels, and garnished with green onions.

There’s nothing like the simple joy of Chicken Corn Soup made from scratch. It’s a dish that nourishes both the body and the soul, offering warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re making it for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to fit your tastes. The balance of tender chicken, sweet corn, and savory broth creates a perfect dish for any occasion.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating this heartwarming, flavorful soup. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have a new favorite recipe to share with friends and family.

Ready to get cooking? Try this recipe today and experience the joy of homemade Chinese Chicken Corn Soup!