If you’re craving a cozy, nourishing meal that combines tender chicken, chewy noodles, and a flavorful broth, you have to try this Chicken Udon Soup Recipe. It brings together simple, yet punchy Asian-inspired ingredients with the satisfying comfort of a warm soup bowl. This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want something quick, fulfilling, and utterly delicious — the kind of dish that feels like a big, calming hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Udon Soup Recipe plays a vital role in building rich flavor and texture. These staples are easy to find and work harmoniously to create a broth that is both savory and slightly sweet, a perfect balance for the chewy udon noodles and tender chicken.
- Chicken broth: The hearty base that gives the soup depth and warmth, choose low-sodium for more control over saltiness.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami and a subtle saltiness that brightens up the broth.
- Mirin: A sweet Japanese rice wine that complements the savory notes and gives a gentle sweetness.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance the salt and sour notes in the broth perfectly.
- Udon noodles: Thick, chewy noodles that soak up the broth beautifully for a comforting bite.
- Cooked chicken breast: Shredded for easy eating, it provides protein and keeps the soup hearty and filling.
- Green onions: Fresh and crisp, they add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor as a garnish.
How to Make Chicken Udon Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by bringing the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. This forms the flavorful base of your soup and warms everything up perfectly for the next steps.
Step 2: Infuse the Broth
Once boiling, stir in the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. These ingredients melt together to create a savory and slightly sweet broth that enhances every spoonful.
Step 3: Simmer to Develop Flavor
Lower the heat and let the broth simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This step is where the flavors really mingle and deepen, making the broth truly comforting and aromatic.
Step 4: Cook the Udon Noodles
While the broth is simmering, cook your udon noodles according to the package instructions. Fresh or dried udon noodles work equally well. Drain and set them aside carefully so they stay tender yet firm.
Step 5: Assemble the Soup
Divide the cooked noodles among your serving bowls. Top with shredded chicken adding generous portions to make the soup filling and protein-rich.
Step 6: Ladle the Hot Broth and Garnish
Pour the steaming broth over the noodles and chicken in each bowl. Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions on top to add freshness and a subtle bite that contrasts perfectly with the silky broth.
How to Serve Chicken Udon Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped green onions elevate the dish with color and brightness. You can also toss in some toasted sesame seeds, a drizzle of chili oil for heat, or a boiled egg for extra richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken Udon Soup with light side dishes such as steamed edamame, pickled vegetables, or a crisp salad to balance the warm, hearty noodles and broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the noodles and garnishes beautifully. You can layer the toppings artistically and provide chopsticks alongside a spoon for a fun and immersive dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover Chicken Udon Soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles and broth separate if possible to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This soup freezes well without the noodles. Freeze the broth and cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months, then add fresh cooked udon noodles when reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the broth and chicken on the stove until steaming. Add freshly cooked udon noodles to the hot broth before serving to maintain their perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While udon noodles have a unique chewy texture, you can substitute them with soba, ramen, or even rice noodles depending on your preference.
Is mirin necessary in this recipe?
Mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth, but if you don’t have it, you can replace it with a little extra sugar and a splash of white wine or rice vinegar.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie or boiled chicken works perfectly, making this recipe a great way to use what you have on hand.
How spicy is this Chicken Udon Soup Recipe?
This recipe has no inherent spiciness, making it very mild. You can customize it by adding chili flakes or hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat.
What can I add to boost the nutrition?
Add vegetables like spinach, bok choy, mushrooms, or carrots for extra vitamins and color. They also add wonderful texture and flavor complexity.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Udon Soup Recipe has become one of my go-to meals when I need something quick, comforting, and satisfying. It’s so easy to make and full of flavor, and it really brings a little joy with every bowl. I hope you dive in and enjoy it as much as I do—it’s the perfect recipe to keep in your culinary rotation all year round!
Print
Chicken Udon Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Description
This comforting Chicken Udon Soup features tender shredded chicken, chewy udon noodles, and a flavorful broth infused with soy sauce, mirin, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this soup combines simple ingredients cooked on the stovetop to deliver a warm and hearty experience.
Ingredients
Broth
- 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 broth. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat to prepare the base of the soup.
- Season broth. Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar into the boiling broth to infuse it with rich umami and slight sweetness.
- Simmer broth. Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Cook noodles. While the broth simmers, prepare the udon noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Assemble bowls. Divide the cooked udon noodles into serving bowls and top each with shredded cooked chicken breast.
- Serve soup. Ladle the hot, seasoned broth over the noodles and chicken, then garnish with chopped green onions for freshness and a mild oniony bite.
Notes
- Use either fresh or dried udon noodles based on availability; fresh noodles tend to cook faster.
- Shredded cooked chicken can be prepared in advance or substituted with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to control the saltiness of the broth according to personal taste.
- Mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth; if unavailable, a small amount of sugar and rice wine vinegar can be used as a substitute.
- Garnish with additional toppings like mushrooms, bok choy, or a soft-boiled egg for variation.
