If you’re craving a comforting bowl of warmth that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Chicken Udon Soup Recipe is your go-to. It perfectly balances tender chicken, chewy udon noodles, and a savory broth that’s flavored with soy sauce and mirin for that delightful umami kick. This dish is a quick yet deeply satisfying meal that feels homemade and special—a perfect way to brighten up any day with just a handful of simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Udon Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add just the right layer of flavor, texture, and color—to create a soup that’s far from basic.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The soulful base that brings warmth and depth, making every spoonful rich and soothing.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Adds salty, umami savoriness that lifts the broth beautifully.
- 1 tbsp mirin: Brings a subtle sweetness and shine to the broth, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 1 tsp sugar: Just enough to round out the taste, making it gentle on the palate.
- 14 oz udon noodles (fresh or dried): Thick, chewy noodles that soak up the broth and bring satisfying texture.
- 2 cups chicken breast (cooked and shredded): Tender, lean protein that makes the soup hearty yet light.
- 2 green onions (chopped): Fresh green pops of flavor and color that brighten every bowl.
How to Make Chicken Udon Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by bringing 6 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. This is the foundation of flavor, so use a good-quality broth for best results.
Step 2: Season the Broth
Once boiling, add in the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Stir these ingredients well to blend their flavors into the broth, then reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for 5 minutes. This simmering time helps the seasonings meld into a rich, perfect broth.
Step 3: Cook the Udon Noodles
While the broth simmers, cook your udon noodles according to the package instructions. Whether fresh or dried, make sure they’re tender but still slightly chewy. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside until ready to serve.
Step 4: Assemble the Soup
Divide the cooked udon noodles among your serving bowls, creating a cozy bed for the shredded chicken. Then, ladle the hot, flavorful broth over the noodles, letting the warmth bring all the ingredients together.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
Finish by sprinkling the chopped green onions on top. They add a fresh crunch and a bright burst of color that makes your Chicken Udon Soup Recipe truly inviting.
How to Serve Chicken Udon Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are classic, but feel free to sprinkle a little toasted sesame seeds or add a few slices of fresh shiitake mushrooms for that earthy nuance. A drizzle of chili oil can also add a bit of warmth if you like it spicy.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with light sides like a simple cucumber salad or crispy tempura vegetables. For a more filling meal, steamed edamame or a small bowl of pickled vegetables bring balance and contrast to the comforting soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Chicken Udon Soup Recipe in rustic bowls with a pair of chopsticks and a large soup spoon to enjoy every slurp. Layer your shredded chicken on top rather than mixing it in to showcase those tender pieces. You can also add a halved soft-boiled egg for a richer presentation and extra protein boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep noodles separate if possible to prevent them from becoming overly soft.
Freezing
The broth and chicken freeze well, but it’s best to freeze them without the noodles. Store the broth and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the broth and chicken gently in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook fresh udon noodles separately and combine everything just before serving to keep the texture lively and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save time, and it adds wonderful flavor. Just shred it and add it in like the cooked chicken breast.
What can I substitute for mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, a mild white wine or a mixture of rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar can mimic its sweet, tangy profile quite well.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives to the chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works beautifully as a base to keep it vegetarian while still maintaining a rich and comforting flavor profile.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add chili oil, fresh sliced chili peppers, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you serve it for a nice kick without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the broth and shred the chicken a day ahead, then cook the noodles fresh at serving time. This helps keep the noodles from getting mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Udon Soup Recipe is truly a delightful find for anyone who loves a hearty yet elegant bowl of soup. It steals the spotlight with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Give this recipe a try—the comfort it brings will quickly turn it into a favorite you’ll return to time and time again!
Print
Chicken Udon Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Description
A comforting and flavorful Chicken Udon Soup featuring tender shredded chicken, chewy udon noodles, and a savory broth infused with soy sauce and mirin. Perfect for a quick, warming meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 1 tsp sugar
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz udon noodles (fresh or dried)
- 2 cups chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
Instructions
- Boil the Broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a rolling boil to create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Season the Broth: Add soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to the boiling broth. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly combined.
- Simmer the Broth: Reduce the heat to low and let the broth gently simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Cook Udon Noodles: While the broth simmers, cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set the noodles aside.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked noodles evenly among serving bowls and top each serving with the shredded chicken breast.
- Serve: Ladle the hot seasoned broth over the noodles and chicken in each bowl. Garnish with the freshly chopped green onions for a hint of freshness and added texture, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh or dried udon noodles depending on availability; dried noodles may require slightly longer cooking time.
- Leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken can be used to save time.
- Adjust soy sauce to taste if you prefer a saltier or milder broth.
- For added depth, consider adding mushrooms or spinach to the broth while simmering.
- Mirin can be substituted with a sweet rice wine or a mixture of sugar and water if unavailable.
