Foolproof Poached Chicken Noodle Soup

This poached chicken noodle soup is light, nourishing, and made with a foolproof method that ensures your chicken breast will never be overcooked. The chicken is gently poached in a fragrant stock, which not only keeps it juicy but also infuses the broth with extra flavor. Paired with fresh egg noodles, bok choy, and bean sprouts, this is the perfect quick and comforting midweek meal.

Ingredients

Main

  • 1 chicken breast (up to 300g / 10 oz)
  • 3 bok choys (or 4 small ones)
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 150g / 5 oz fresh egg noodles

Soup Stock

  • 2 cups (500 ml / 16 oz) chicken stock
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (or substitute with 2 tsp sherry or sake)
  • 2 tsp minced ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 star anise

Garnish (optional)

  • 1 scallion / shallot (green part only), sliced
  • Fried Asian shallots

Instructions

Make the Stock

In a medium saucepan large enough to fit the chicken breast, combine all stock ingredients and bring to a boil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Poach the Chicken

Add the chicken breast to the stock, return to a boil, then remove from heat. Cover and let it sit for 20–25 minutes. The chicken will cook gently in the hot stock and remain juicy. Once done, remove the chicken and slice into thin strips.

Prepare the Noodles and Vegetables

Cook the noodles according to packet instructions (fresh egg noodles usually only need soaking in boiling water).
Cut bok choy stems into sticks and separate the leaves.

Assemble the Soup

Bring the stock back to a boil (without the chicken). Add the bok choy stems and cook for 30 seconds. Remove from heat, then stir in the bok choy leaves and bean sprouts.

Place noodles into serving bowls, top with sliced chicken and vegetables, then ladle over the hot broth. Garnish with scallions and fried shallots if using.

Conclusion

This foolproof poached chicken noodle soup is fresh, wholesome, and incredibly easy to make. With tender chicken, light yet flavorful broth, and crunchy vegetables, it’s a perfectly balanced meal you can whip up any night of the week. Once you try this method of poaching, you’ll never go back!

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