Easy Chicken Corn Soup Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken corn soup to bring comfort, nourishment, and flavor all in one bite. This soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a perfectly seasoned broth that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly night or looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this recipe has you covered.
What makes this chicken corn soup recipe so special is its versatility. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner, but also impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can easily be adapted with ingredients you already have in your pantry.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making chicken corn soup—from the exact ingredients to detailed step-by-step instructions, tips for the best results, creative variations, and even how to store it for later. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Chicken Corn Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious pot of chicken corn soup at home:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional, for silky egg ribbons)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (adds depth of flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken: Any cooked chicken will work, but shredded rotisserie chicken is the easiest and tastiest shortcut.
- Corn: Fresh corn is naturally sweet, but frozen or canned corn will also deliver great results.
- Cornstarch: This gives the soup its classic slightly thick texture. If you prefer a thinner broth, you can reduce the amount.
- Egg: Adding a beaten egg creates silky ribbons in the soup, similar to Chinese egg drop soup. It’s optional, but highly recommended.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Corn Soup Recipe
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting pot of chicken corn soup ready in under an hour.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Stir in the carrots, celery, and corn. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting the vegetables soften slightly while absorbing the flavors.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the shredded chicken and soy sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly pour it into the soup while stirring constantly. This will slightly thicken the broth, giving it a silky texture.
Step 5: Add the Egg (Optional but Delicious)
If you’re using the egg, slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the hot soup while stirring in one direction. This creates delicate ribbons throughout the broth.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley (or cilantro) before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Corn Soup
Making chicken corn soup is simple, but these tips will help take it to the next level:
- Use homemade stock if possible – It adds a depth of flavor that store-bought broth can’t beat.
- Shred chicken finely – This ensures every spoonful has chicken and blends smoothly with the corn.
- Don’t skip the slurry – Cornstarch makes the soup comforting and slightly creamy without using cream.
- Add egg last – Drizzle slowly for perfect ribbons. Stirring too fast will break them up.
- Taste before seasoning – Since chicken broth and soy sauce are already salty, always check before adding more salt.
Variations of Chicken Corn Soup
This recipe is a fantastic base, but here are some ways you can customize it:
1. Creamy Chicken Corn Soup
Add ½ cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier version.
2. Spicy Chicken Corn Soup
Stir in a teaspoon of chili flakes, sriracha, or chopped green chilies for a spicy kick.
3. Vegetable-Packed Version
Add peas, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for an extra veggie boost.
4. Noodle Chicken Corn Soup
Add egg noodles or rice noodles for a heartier meal. Cook them separately and stir in before serving.
5. Asian-Inspired Flavor
Enhance the broth with a splash of sesame oil and a pinch of white pepper.
6. Low-Carb Chicken Corn Soup
Skip the cornstarch or replace it with xanthan gum for a low-carb version.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cornstarch → Use arrowroot powder or potato starch.
- Chicken → Swap with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein.
- Soy Sauce → Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Broth → Vegetable broth works if you want a vegetarian base (just omit chicken and add extra veggies).
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about chicken corn soup is how well it stores and reheats.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. (For best texture, add the cornstarch slurry after reheating rather than before freezing.)
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about this chicken corn soup recipe is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or as part of a bigger menu, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- With Bread on the Side: A bowl of chicken corn soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or even buttery dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- With a Fresh Salad: For a lighter meal, serve your soup alongside a crisp garden salad. A simple mix of lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes with a light vinaigrette balances the warmth and richness of the soup.
- As a Starter: This soup makes an excellent appetizer before a main dish like roast chicken, grilled fish, or stir-fried noodles. It sets the stage for the rest of the meal without being too heavy.
- With Rice or Noodles: If you want to make it more filling, serve the soup with a scoop of steamed rice or stir in some cooked egg noodles before serving. It transforms the dish into a hearty one-bowl meal.
- With Asian-Inspired Sides: For an Asian-style dinner, pair it with spring rolls, dumplings, or a side of fried rice. The flavors complement each other perfectly.
- For Kids: Serve the soup with buttery crackers or breadsticks—kids love dipping them into the warm broth.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 bowls
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Corn Soup Recipe
This chicken corn soup recipe is:
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Comforting and nourishing for any time of year
- Adaptable with countless variations
- Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
- A family favorite that kids and adults both enjoy
Conclusion (chicken corn soup recipe)
There’s a reason why this chicken corn soup recipe has stood the test of time in so many kitchens around the world. It’s a dish that manages to be both simple and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even as a starter for a dinner party. The combination of tender chicken, naturally sweet corn, and a savory broth delivers comfort in every spoonful, and the best part is that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make it happen.
One of the most appealing things about this chicken corn soup recipe is its versatility. You can make it light and brothy, rich and creamy, or even spicy with just a few adjustments. It pairs beautifully with everything from crusty bread to fresh salads, and it also stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep. Whether you prefer the classic version or want to experiment with noodles, extra veggies, or bold spices, this soup adapts easily to your tastes and the ingredients you have on hand.
If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and a sense of home to your table, this chicken corn soup recipe is exactly what you need. It’s nourishing, family-friendly, and a true comfort food that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a steaming bowl of chicken corn soup—you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite around the world.
