Coconut Lemon Chicken Soup – With a Golden Boost
There’s something so comforting about a warm, fragrant bowl of soup – especially one that’s creamy, fresh, and zesty all at once. This coconut lemon chicken soup is one of our family go-to’s, and now I love it even more with the warming addition of fresh turmeric. Not only does it give a beautiful golden colour, but it also adds extra depth and nourishment.
Originally inspired by Jo Whitton’s Quirky Cooking recipe, I’ve made it my own with a few family-friendly adjustments, the convenience of the slow cooker, and the option to add noodles for a heartier meal.
Ingredients
-
1 whole chicken or 1kg chicken pieces (thighs/drumsticks work well)
-
1 onion, finely chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, crushed
-
1 knob fresh ginger, sliced
-
1 tbsp fresh turmeric, grated
-
1 carrot, finely chopped
-
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
-
2 cups chicken stock or broth
-
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
-
Juice + zest of 1 lemon
-
1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for a mild alternative)
-
1 tsp sea salt (to taste)
-
100g vermicelli or thin egg noodles
Toppings / Add-ins:
-
Spring onions, sliced
-
Fresh coriander
-
Bean sprouts
-
Fresh red chilli slices
-
Extra lemon wedges
Method (Slow Cooker)
-
Place chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, carrot, celery, and stock into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours (or high for 3–4).
-
Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred the meat, and discard bones/skin. Return meat to the broth.
-
Stir in coconut milk, lemon juice & zest, fish sauce, and season with salt.
-
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the vermicelli or egg noodles so they soften in the broth.
-
Serve hot with your choice of toppings – coriander, bean sprouts, spring onion, and chilli are our favourites.
Kid-Friendly Modifications
If serving to little ones, you can:
-
Skip the noodles and instead serve shredded chicken with some broth in a small bowl or over plain rice.
-
Keep toppings mild – e.g., just spring onion or coriander, leaving chilli out.
-
For toddlers, remove the chicken pieces and finely shred or chop them before serving.
This way, kids enjoy the same nourishing soup without overwhelming flavours or textures.
Tips & Variations
-
Add extra veg (zucchini, bok choy, or spinach work beautifully in the last 30 minutes).
-
Use leftover roast chicken for a faster version – just reduce cooking time.
-
Double the broth and freeze portions for busy weeknights.
💌 Don’t forget – if you’re new here, you can use code WELCOME10 at checkout for 10% off your first Looma order.