If you’re craving a bowl of comforting warmth that’s both nourishing and delightfully flavorful, this Chinese Chicken Rice Soup Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a brilliant combination of tender white fish, fragrant rice, and a broth infused with garlic, ginger, and classic Chinese seasonings. Each spoonful offers silky textures and subtle layers of savory goodness that feel like a gentle hug for your soul. Perfect for any time you want something quick, satisfying, and truly heartwarming.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the ingredients here—each one plays an essential role in building the authentic and rich flavor profile of this soup. From the aromatic garlic and ginger to the fresh choy sum and silky fish, every element adds texture, depth, or color, making the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.
- Chicken stock (1 litre / 32 oz, low sodium): Provides a rich and savory base while keeping the soup light and clean.
- Water (1 cup): Balances the broth intensity and stretches the soup perfectly.
- Garlic cloves (2, smashed): Infuse the broth with their unmistakable warm and pungent aroma.
- Ginger piece (1.5 cm / ½”, cut into 3 slices): Adds a fresh, slightly spicy kick to brighten the soup.
- Light soy sauce (1½ tbsp): Gives the broth that subtle umami and saltiness without overpowering.
- Chinese cooking wine (1½ tbsp): The secret ingredient that lifts the soup with sweetness and complexity.
- Sesame oil (¼ – ½ tsp, toasted, optional): A fragrant finishing touch to deepen the flavor.
- White pepper (¼ tsp): A mild peppery spice that warms the dish softly; black pepper can be substituted or omitted.
- Uncooked white rice (¾ cup): Choose your favorite variety for the perfect silky texture in the soup.
- Choy sum (3 stems, cut into 2cm / 1″ lengths, stems separated from leaves): Adds lovely crunch and a fresh burst of green.
- White fish fillets (250g / 8 oz, cut into 2.5cm / 1″ cubes): Tender, flaky fish that cooks quickly and absorbs the broth flavors beautifully.
- Green onion (1, finely sliced): Brightens the soup with a gentle sharpness and pop of color.
- Crispy fried shallots: Provide an irresistible crunchy contrast.
- Crunchy fried noodles: Optional garnish to add texture and fun.
- Chilli oil or paste: For those who love a little heat and complexity in each bite.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine broth ingredients
Start by placing your chicken stock, light soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, smashed garlic cloves, and sliced ginger into a small pot set over high heat. These components are the heart of your broth and will come together to build the soup’s rich, inviting taste.
Step 2: Simmer to infuse
Put the lid on, bring the pot to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium. Allow the broth to simmer for about 5 minutes so all those garlicky and gingery flavors blend deeply into the stock. This step is where the magic starts to happen, giving your soup its signature warmth and depth.
Step 3: Add rice
Next, stir in the uncooked rice and remove the lid. Cook the soup uncovered for 10 minutes, keeping the broth at a very gentle bubble. This helps the rice soften and release its natural starches, adding a silky body to your soup without making it overly thick.
Step 4: Add fish and choy sum stems
Carefully add the cubed white fish and the chopped choy sum stems to the pot. They’ll cook quickly—about 2 minutes—adding tender, fresh flavors and a lovely textural contrast to the soup just before serving.
Step 5: Remove garlic and ginger
Before moving on, pick out the garlic cloves and ginger slices from the soup. Their job of infusing the broth is done, and removing them keeps your spoonfuls smooth and enjoyable without unexpected bites.
Step 6: Stir in choy sum leaves, sesame oil, and pepper
Finally, add the choy sum leaves, which will wilt almost instantly, then stir in the optional toasted sesame oil and white pepper. These final touches bring a dazzling aroma and subtle heat that round out the flavors perfectly. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes really make this soup feel special and add textural contrast. Sprinkle fried shallots for a crispy, slightly sweet crunch and add crunchy fried noodles if you want that extra bit of fun. A drizzle of chili oil or a dollop of chili paste brings a bold kick that perfectly complements the gentle broth.
Side Dishes
This soup stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like steamed bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, a side of vegetable spring rolls or Chinese steamed buns would turn this simple meal into a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Chinese Chicken Rice Soup Recipe in individual bowls garnished with delicate slices of green onion and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil. For a modern twist, serve it in mini clear glass cups as an appetizer or alongside crispy wonton chips for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garnishes separate so they stay crispy when you’re ready to enjoy the soup again.
Freezing
This soup freezes well without the fresh vegetables or fish, which can be added fresh when reheating. Freeze the broth and rice base in portions for up to 2 months for quick meals anytime.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat to prevent the fish from overcooking. Add any fresh or delicate ingredients after reheating to preserve color and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of fish in the Chinese Chicken Rice Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Cubed cooked chicken breast or thigh can be added in place of fish. Just make sure it’s tender and cooked through before serving since chicken takes longer to cook than fish.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken stock with a flavorful vegetable broth and omit the fish. You might want to add tofu cubes or mushrooms for some protein and texture instead.
What kind of rice works best for this recipe?
This recipe is very forgiving—long grain, medium grain, short grain, or jasmine rice all work beautifully. Each type will affect the texture slightly, but all give you that lovely silky broth.
Can I prepare the soup without Chinese cooking wine?
If you don’t have Chinese cooking wine, dry sherry or even a splash of mirin can be used as a substitute. The key is the slight sweetness and depth it adds to the broth.
How spicy is this soup naturally?
The base soup is mild and comforting. Spice only comes from the optional chili oil or paste you add as a garnish, so you can easily control the heat level to suit your preference.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chinese Chicken Rice Soup Recipe enough. It’s quick, fuss-free, but packed with such authentically satisfying flavors that it feels like a special occasion every time you make it. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a soothing bowl to lift your spirits, give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
