You know that comforting feeling when the weather turns chilly, and you crave something warm and nourishing? That’s exactly how I felt when I first crafted this Sesame Oil Chicken Soup. The moment the ginger hits the pan and releases its fragrant oils, it transforms my kitchen into a haven of warmth and delight.
During a recent weeknight cooking challenge, I found myself reaching deep into my pantry to create a dish that not only satisfied my cravings but also reminded me of home. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients like goji berries, sesame oil, and tender chicken, this soup is deceptively simple yet extraordinarily rich in flavor.
It’s a perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you taste this savory concoction, you’ll be sipping it on repeat! Ready to dive into this delicious homemade comfort bowl? Let’s get started!
Why is Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Irresistible?
Comforting, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly night. Nutritious and packed with goji berries and ginger, this dish not only satisfies but also nourishes your body. Quick to make, preparation takes just 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Full of flavor, the rich sesame oil and rice wine create a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. And, versatile enough for any occasion, you can serve it with noodles or as a standalone dish! You’ll definitely want to check out how this soup can become your go-to recipe for cozy nights.
Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create a cozy bowl of delight!
For the Soup
- Dry goji berries – rehydrates beautifully, adding a touch of sweetness and nutrition to your soup.
- Taiwanese mijiu clear rice cooking wine – enhances the overall flavor profile; the first ⅓ cup is for soaking goji berries.
- Ginger, sliced – brings warmth and a fragrant kick; don’t peel it for more robust flavor.
- Neutral-flavored oil (e.g., avocado) – helps brown the chicken without overpowering its taste.
- Bone-in & skin-on chicken drumettes – rich in flavor and perfect for simmering; skip this only if using a boneless cut.
- Black sesame oil or toasted sesame oil – adds a nutty depth; use it generously for that signature taste.
- Sugar or rock sugar – balances the flavors beautifully; go for rock sugar for a more authentic experience.
- Water – the base of the broth; adjust the amount for desired soup thickness.
- Coarse sea salt – season to taste; it boosts the flavors of all ingredients.
- Chinese-style thin noodles (optional) – a delightful addition for a heartier soup, or use Japanese somen for a twist.
Grab these ingredients and let the comforting aromas fill your kitchen with a little magic!
How to Make Sesame Oil Chicken Soup
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Soak the dry goji berries in a small bowl with ⅓ cup of mijiu. This step rehydrates the berries, allowing them to plump up and infuse your soup with sweetness. Set aside for later.
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Slice the ginger into pieces slightly under ¼ inch thick. There’s no need to peel it; just rinse and pat it dry if necessary. The skin adds extra flavor to the soup!
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Brown the chicken in a 4-quart soup pot. Make sure to pat the chicken dry first, then add it to the cold pot along with the neutral oil. Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes per side until both sides are lightly browned.
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Add the ginger slices to the pot. Shift the chicken slightly so that the ginger sits in contact with the rendered fat. This process helps to draw out the ginger’s amazing flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
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Fry the ginger on medium-low heat for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned and slightly shriveled. The lovely aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
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Incorporate the sesame oil and sugar. Stir-fry for 1 minute, allowing those fragrant flavors to mingle and become aromatic, creating a delicious base for your soup.
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Pour in the remaining 1 cup of mijiu and the water. Cover the pot and turn the heat up to medium. Bring it to a boil in about 8–10 minutes, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, leaving the lid slightly ajar.
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Season the soup with coarse sea salt to taste. The salt will elevate all the flavors and make your soup even more delicious.
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Simmer the soaked goji berries along with their soaking wine for 30 seconds. This step adds a touch of sweetness to the broth!
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If desired, add the noodles directly to the soup and cook according to package instructions. This makes the soup heartier and perfect for a comforting bowl.
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Serve by discarding the ginger slices, then transferring the chicken, noodles, and broth into individual bowls. Enjoy your hot and nourishing soup!
Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These comforting bowls of Sesame Oil Chicken Soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can soak the goji berries in mijiu and slice the ginger up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights. Additionally, brown the chicken and ginger, then refrigerate the mixture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the remaining mijiu and water, bring to a boil, and simmer until heated through. This method maintains the rich flavors and delightful aromas, ensuring it’s just as delicious as when first made. With these simple steps, weeknight dinners become a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Oil Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Allow soup to cool completely before sealing.
Thawing: Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or use the microwave on low power. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the soup thickens.
Reheating: Always reheat soup to a minimum of 165°F (74°C) before serving to ensure it’s safe and delicious!
What to Serve with Sesame Oil Chicken Soup?
Creating a delightful meal around your soup can elevate the experience, turning it into a cozy feast.
- Steamed Bok Choy: Adds a crisp, fresh element that beautifully contrasts the warmth of the soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the rich flavors of sesame oil while providing a delightful crunch.
- Szechuan-style Garlic Green Beans: Spicy and vibrant, these beans offer a wonderful burst of flavor, lightening the dish perfectly.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with fresh veggies, they are perfect for dipping into the soup’s broth.
- Fragrant Jasmine Rice: Serve it on the side to soak up the savory broth, making for a comforting and complete meal.
Imagine cozying up with a steaming bowl of soup paired with crispy spring rolls. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven!
Expert Tips for Sesame Oil Chicken Soup
- Soak Goji Berries: Ensure the goji berries are well-soaked in mijiu for at least 30 minutes. This enhances their sweetness and nutritional benefits.
- Ginger Prepping: Avoid peeling the ginger; leaving the skin on imparts a richer flavor. Just be sure to slice it carefully for even cooking.
- Chicken Browning: Pat chicken pieces dry to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust. A properly browned chicken elevates the flavor of your Sesame Oil Chicken Soup.
- Simmering Wisdom: Keep the lid slightly ajar while simmering. This allows steam to escape, concentrating the flavors in your broth.
- Salt to Taste: Add salt gradually towards the end of cooking; this prevents over-salting and allows you to tailor flavors according to your preference.
- Noodle Addition: If using noodles, add them at the end and follow package instructions for a perfectly cooked finish that enhances your soup’s heartiness.
Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Variations
Customization is the heart of home cooking; let your creativity shine with these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of mijiu for similar depth without the gluten.
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version that’s equally hearty.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili oil or sliced fresh chili peppers while cooking for that warm kick.
- Herbaceous Flair: Toss in a handful of fresh cilantro or green onions as a garnish for vibrant color and fresh taste.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk towards the end for a luxurious creaminess that enhances flavor.
- Sweet Twist: Experiment with adding a splash of orange juice or zest to brighten the flavors and introduce some citrus goodness.
- Broth Boost: For a deeper flavor, replace water with homemade or store-bought chicken broth during the simmering process.
- Extra Noodles: Try adding rice noodles or udon for varied textures and a satisfying chew alongside your tender chicken!
Each variation makes this soup uniquely yours, so don’t hesitate to indulge your taste buds! Enjoy the journey of flavors and warmth!
Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the goji berries, look for dried ones that are plump and vibrant in color, avoiding any that are hard or have dark spots. When selecting ginger, choose pieces that feel firm and have a smooth skin without any wrinkles. The freshest garlic will also have a pleasant, aromatic scent when you give it a sniff.
What is the best way to store leftover Sesame Oil Chicken Soup?
Very! Store your leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing the containers to preserve its delicious flavor. When reheating, stir occasionally on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I freeze Sesame Oil Chicken Soup?
Yes! Freezing is an excellent way to keep your soup delicious for later. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave on low power, reheating gently on the stove.
What should I do if the soup is too salty?
Don’t fret! If you find your soup is too salty, try adding a splash of water or an unsalted broth to dilute the saltiness. You can also toss in a peeled, whole potato while simmering; it will absorb some of the saltiness. Just be sure to remove it before serving!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you or someone you’re serving has allergies, you can easily adjust the recipe. For gluten-free needs, substitute the traditional soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Additionally, if you’re cooking for someone with chicken allergies, consider using tofu or a vegetable base as your protein instead. This soup is versatile, making it a great choice for various dietary preferences!
Savory Sesame Oil Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the dry goji berries in a small bowl with ⅓ cup of mijiu. Set aside.
- Slice the ginger into pieces slightly under ¼ inch thick; do not peel.
- Brown the chicken in a 4-quart soup pot with neutral oil for about 8–10 minutes per side.
- Add ginger slices to the pot, ensuring they contact the rendered fat.
- Fry ginger on medium-low heat for about 6–8 minutes until lightly browned.
- Incorporate sesame oil and sugar, stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Pour in the remaining 1 cup of mijiu and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season with coarse sea salt to taste.
- Simmer soaked goji berries with their soaking wine for 30 seconds.
- If desired, add the noodles and cook according to package instructions.
- Serve by discarding ginger slices, and transferring chicken, noodles, and broth into bowls.