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Tom Kha Gai Recipe

Thai Coconut Chicken Soup Recipe

Experience the comforting taste of Thailand with this Tom Kha Gai recipe, a rich, tangy, and aromatic coconut chicken soup made with authentic Thai ingredients like galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. Ready in just 25–30 minutes, it’s a perfect dish for weeknight meals or impressing guests.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 2–3 bowls
Tom Kha Gai ingredients – coconut milk, chicken, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2½ cups water
  • 120–150 g (4–5 oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup mushrooms (any variety)
  • 4 grape tomatoes, halved

Herbs & Aromatics:

  • 1 stalk lemongrass (bottom half only, sliced diagonally – about 1 tbsp)
  • 4–5 thin slices galangal
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves, torn
  • 1–2 Thai chilies (optional for spice)
  • 2 shallots, lightly smashed

Seasoning:

  • 2½ to 3 tbsp tamarind juice (adjust to taste)
  • 1½ tbsp sugar
  • 1½ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Aromatics

Smash the lemongrass, galangal, and shallots to release their natural oils and fragrance.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

In a medium pot, combine coconut milk, water, smashed aromatics, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Add Chicken & Veggies

Once the soup begins to simmer, add sliced chicken and mushrooms. Cook until chicken is fully done (about 5–7 minutes).

Step 4: Finish with Flavor

Stir in tamarind juice, sugar, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Optionally, add sliced Thai chilies for extra heat.
Step-by-step instructions for cooking Thai coconut chicken soup (Tom Kha Gai).

Notes & Tips

  • No tamarind juice? Use lime juice instead, but add it at the end and reduce the heat to preserve its brightness.
  • Add a splash of fish sauce or lime juice before serving for extra umami and brightness.
  • Galangal vs Ginger: Galangal is preferred for authentic flavor, but ginger can be a backup in a pinch.
  • Serve hot with jasmine rice or as a starter to a Thai meal.
Pro tips for cooking authentic Tom Kha Gai, including lime juice and fish sauce substitutions.

Serving Inspiration

Experience the comforting taste of Thailand with this Tom Kha Gai recipe, a rich, tangy, and aromatic coconut chicken soup made with authentic Thai ingredients like galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. Ready in just 25–30 minutes, it’s a perfect dish for weeknight meals or impressing guests.