Maple Soy Chicken Soup

Name: Maple Soy Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced; 1 cup snow peas, trimmed; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped for garnish; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Meal Collection

When I first experimented with this Maple Soy Chicken Soup, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory soy sauce creates a delightful balance in the broth that’s incredibly comforting. I love how the fresh ginger adds warmth, while the vegetables provide a satisfying crunch. It's a perfect dish for chilly evenings, and I often find myself making a big batch to share with friends. This soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brightens up any gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:38:28.608Z

Initially, I wasn’t sure how maple syrup would pair with chicken in a soup, but the flavor married together beautifully. I first simmered the chicken with fresh vegetables, allowing all the flavors to develop before introducing the soy sauce and maple syrup. The key is to add the syrup gradually, tasting along the way to ensure the sweetness complements rather than overpowers the dish.

After perfecting the broth, I added some green onions and cilantro at the end for a fresh pop. This really elevates the soup and adds a nice aromatic finish. Trust me; this soup will quickly become your go-to comfort dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique fusion of sweet and savory flavors
Nutritious ingredients that warm you up inside
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Power of Ingredients

In this Maple Soy Chicken Soup, each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory soy sauce creates a harmonious broth that is both rich and comforting. Chicken breasts provide a lean protein source that cooks up tender and juicy, while the addition of ginger not only adds warmth but also aids digestion. This makes the soup satisfying on both the palate and the body, particularly during those cold evenings.

Vegetables are the unsung heroes of this dish, contributing both color and crunch. Snow peas add a delightful snap, while mushrooms create an earthy depth. Carrots bring natural sweetness and a vibrant hue, brightening not just the soups' flavors but also its visual appeal. I recommend slicing the carrots thinly for quicker cooking, ensuring they soften just enough to be tender but still retain bite. The fresh cilantro and green onions as garnishes provide a fresh twist, enhancing the overall experience.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the chicken, it's essential to achieve a golden-brown exterior, which enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches. This step helps avoid steaming them, resulting in a better texture. Keeping the heat at medium allows for even cooking without burning, which is vital for building a rich flavor base for your broth.

Simmering is a critical step in developing the soup's flavor profile. It allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. I like to keep the heat low and watch for gentle bubbling. Too vigorous a boil can cause the chicken to become overcooked and rubbery, while a simmer around 190°F allows everything to coexist without losing textural integrity. Stir occasionally, and feel free to taste and adjust sweetness with maple syrup to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Maple Soy Chicken Soup.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1 cup snow peas, trimmed
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 green onions, chopped for garnish
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have gathered everything, you're ready to begin making your soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Maple Soy Chicken Soup.

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, add diced chicken breasts and cook over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Broth and Vegetables

Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and maple syrup. Add the minced ginger, sliced carrots, snow peas, and mushrooms. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. Adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup if needed.

Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Maple Soy Chicken Soup!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables used in this soup
broccoli or bell peppers work wonderfully too. Additionally, for a thicker soup, you might want to blend a portion and then mix it back in.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheating is simple; just warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. However, if you're preparing it for later consumption, I recommend undercooking the vegetables slightly, so they maintain their texture when reheated.

If you want to extend its life further, consider freezing portions. Cool the soup completely, then divide it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, you can defrost it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently. Adding fresh garnishes like cilantro and green onions just before serving will elevate the final dish.

Variations to Explore

Don’t hesitate to experiment with protein! While chicken is the star here, feel free to swap it for cooked tofu or shrimp, adjusting cooking times accordingly. Tofu is an excellent option for a vegetarian twist—simply cube it and add it when you introduce the broth, allowing it to absorb the flavors. If you choose shrimp, add them during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming tough.

You can also play with the broth base. For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of sesame oil to complement the soy sauce. Adding spices such as crushed red pepper or a dash of sriracha can give it an exciting kick. Remember, the versatility of this soup allows you to make it your own while still maintaining its core comforting essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use tofu instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Firm tofu can be a great alternative for a vegetarian version.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What else can I add to the soup?

You can add any of your favorite vegetables like bok choy or zucchini for variety!