Few dishes capture the soul of Thailand quite like Tom Yum Soup. Known for its fiery kick, citrusy brightness, and layers of fragrant herbs, it has become a global culinary icon. While the traditional version often uses shrimp as the star ingredient, this Chicken and Prawn Tom Yum Soup Recipe adds a protein-rich twist by blending tender chicken with succulent prawns. The result? A vibrant, comforting, and deeply flavorful soup that strikes the perfect balance between spicy, sour, savory, and aromatic.
This article is your complete guide—covering everything from the origins of Tom Yum, ingredient insights, step-by-step instructions, expert cooking tips, and creative variations to make the recipe truly your own. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned cook, this guide will help you prepare an authentic yet approachable version of this Thai masterpiece.
📖 Table of Contents
- What is Tom Yum Soup?
- Why You’ll Love Chicken and Prawn Tom Yum Soup
- Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Chef’s Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Variations to Try
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Nutritional Breakdown and Health Benefits
- Serving Suggestions
- Storage and Reheating
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Related Recipes to Explore
- Final Thoughts
1. What is Tom Yum Soup?
Tom Yum is arguably Thailand’s most famous soup, celebrated for its sharp, invigorating flavors. The term “Tom” refers to the cooking method—boiling, while “Yum” denotes the spicy and sour flavor profile characteristic of Thai cuisine. Traditionally, Tom Yum features a fragrant broth infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilies, then balanced with fish sauce and lime juice.
There are two main types of Tom Yum:
- Tom Yum Goong – made with shrimp, the most common variety served across Thailand.
- Tom Yum Gai – a chicken-based version that is equally beloved.
By combining both chicken and prawns, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds—hearty protein from chicken and the sweet, briny depth of prawns.
2. Why You’ll Love Chicken and Prawn Tom Yum Soup
- Authentic yet simple: The recipe captures traditional Thai flavors using ingredients available in most grocery stores.
- Quick to make: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable spice level: Adjust chilies to suit your heat tolerance.
- Nutritious and balanced: Packed with lean protein, fresh herbs, and antioxidant-rich ingredients.
- Restaurant-quality at home: Save money and enjoy a healthier version without takeout.
3. Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Essential Ingredients:
- Chicken breast (200g) – lean and tender, cut into bite-sized strips.
- Prawns (150g) – deveined, peeled, and fresh for the best flavor.
- Chicken stock (4 cups) – forms the soup’s base; use homemade for richness.
- Lemongrass (2 stalks) – bruised and chopped to release its citrusy aroma.
- Kaffir lime leaves (3–5) – torn to enhance fragrance.
- Galangal (3–4 slices) – adds earthy, peppery notes. Ginger can substitute.
- Thai bird’s eye chilies (3–4) – crushed for heat.
- Mushrooms (200g) – straw mushrooms or button mushrooms work well.
- Tomato (1 medium, quartered) – adds tang and texture.
- Fish sauce (2 tbsp) – salty, umami depth.
- Lime juice (1 tbsp) – sour punch at the end.
- Fresh cilantro – garnish for freshness.
Substitutions:
- Protein swap: Use tofu for a vegetarian version or double prawns for pescatarian.
- Broth alternative: Vegetable stock can replace chicken stock.
- Chili alternative: Use red chili flakes or mild chilies for less heat.
- Creamy twist: Add coconut milk for a Tom Kha–style variation.
4. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Broth
Bring chicken stock to a gentle boil. Add lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and crushed chilies. Simmer for 5 minutes until the broth is fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add sliced chicken to the pot. Simmer for 7 minutes, or until cooked through. Skim any foam for clarity.
Step 3: Add Prawns and Vegetables
Stir in prawns and mushrooms. Cook for 3–4 minutes until prawns turn pink. Add tomatoes and simmer briefly.
Step 4: Balance the Flavors
Season with fish sauce and lime juice. Taste and adjust—add more lime for sourness, fish sauce for saltiness, or chili paste for heat.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove lemongrass and galangal before serving. Ladle into bowls, garnish with cilantro, and enjoy steaming hot.
5. Chef’s Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh herbs – dried lemongrass or lime leaves won’t deliver authentic flavor.
- Balance taste last – always add lime juice off the heat to preserve freshness.
- Layer heat – start mild, then add chili paste if you want more spice.
- Do not overcook prawns – they only need a few minutes.
- Optional mushroom hack – stir-fry mushrooms briefly before adding for depth.
6. Variations to Try
- Tom Yum with Coconut Milk (Tom Yum Nam Khon) – adds richness and creaminess.
- Vegetarian Tom Yum – swap chicken for tofu, prawns for mushrooms.
- Tom Yum Noodles – serve with rice noodles for a hearty meal.
- Instant Pot Tom Yum – cook broth and chicken under pressure, then add prawns last.
- Tom Yum with Seafood Medley – include squid, mussels, or scallops.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overusing lime juice – makes soup bitter.
- Adding prawns too early – results in rubbery texture.
- Skipping galangal – ginger works, but galangal is the soul of Tom Yum.
- Using only chili paste – fresh chilies are essential for authentic flavor.
- Boiling too long – delicate herbs should only steep, not overcook.
8. Nutritional Breakdown and Health Benefits
Per serving (1 bowl):
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 8g (mostly healthy unsaturated)
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C, antioxidants, and immune-boosting compounds from lime, chilies, and herbs.
Health Benefits:
- Boosts immunity (thanks to lemongrass, lime, and chili).
- High in protein but low in calories—great for weight management.
- Anti-inflammatory properties from galangal and herbs.
- Light yet satisfying meal for digestion.
9. Serving Suggestions
- With steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
- Paired with Thai Mango Salad for freshness.
- Alongside spring rolls or satay skewers for a Thai feast.
- With a chilled glass of Thai iced tea to cool the heat.
10. Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze broth only (up to 3 months); add prawns fresh when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove—avoid overcooking seafood.
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Prawn Tom Yum Soup?
A: Yes, but freeze the broth only. Add fresh prawns after thawing.
Q: What can I substitute for galangal?
A: Ginger works in a pinch, though flavor differs slightly.
Q: Is Tom Yum healthy?
A: Absolutely—low in calories, rich in protein, and packed with antioxidants.
Q: Can I make it kid-friendly?
A: Reduce or skip chilies, then let adults add chili paste at the table.
Q: Is Tom Yum gluten-free?
A: Yes, if gluten-free fish sauce is used.
12. Related Recipes to Explore
- Thai Green Curry Chicken – creamy, fragrant, and comforting.
- Tom Kha Gai (Coconut Chicken Soup) – milder, creamier cousin of Tom Yum.
- Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry – quick and flavorful.
- Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) – spicy street food classic.
- Refreshing Thai Mango Salad – bright and tangy.
13. Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Prawn Tom Yum Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a culinary journey to Thailand from the comfort of your home. By combining fragrant herbs, tangy lime, tender chicken, and sweet prawns, you get a dish that’s both comforting and exhilarating.
