When life gets busy or the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade soup to bring comfort and nourishment to your table. This Hearty Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup Recipe is perfect for such moments. With its savory, slightly sweet broth, tender chicken, and juicy corn kernels, this soup offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.
Made with simple ingredients, it’s not only wholesome but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just looking for a cozy dish for yourself, this recipe will become your go-to choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the simplicity of this soup. The homemade chicken broth creates a rich, savory base while the natural sweetness of the corn adds depth and balance. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and light, making it suitable for any time of year.
This soup is also customizable. You can adjust the seasonings, add soy sauce for an umami kick, or garnish it with fresh herbs to make it your own. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Hearty Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious soup:
For the Broth
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 1 (approx. 500 g) | Provides tender, protein-packed chunks |
| Water | 1 liter | Forms the base of the broth |
| Carrot, peeled & sliced | 1 | Adds a subtle sweetness |
| Celery, chopped | 1 stalk | Contributes earthy, aromatic flavor |
| Onion, quartered | 1 | Enhances the broth’s depth |
| Garlic cloves, crushed | 2 | Adds richness and complexity |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjusts seasoning to your liking |
For the Soup
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing the aromatics |
| Onion, chopped | 1 | Forms the flavor foundation |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 | Adds a savory kick |
| Sweet corn kernels | 400 g | Use fresh, frozen, or canned |
| Prepared chicken broth | 1 liter | From the broth made earlier |
| Soy sauce (optional) | 1 tablespoon | Adds a touch of umami (optional) |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | For thickening the soup |
| Water | 2 tablespoons | To mix with the cornstarch |
| Green onions, chopped | For garnish | Adds a fresh, sharp flavor |
| Fresh cilantro (optional) | For garnish | For a fragrant finishing touch |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Enhances the overall flavor |
How to Make Hearty Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, place the chicken breast, water, sliced carrot, chopped celery, quartered onion, and crushed garlic cloves.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. As the broth starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 25–30 minutes.
- Skim off any foam that rises to the surface to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
- Once the chicken is cooked through (reaching a safe internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), remove it from the pot and transfer it to a plate to cool.
- Strain the broth to remove the vegetables, and set aside 1 liter for the soup.
- Shred or tear the cooked chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the Soup Base
- In a soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add Sweet Corn and Combine
- Stir in the sweet corn kernels and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing them to release their natural sweetness.
- Pour the prepared chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings
- Stir in the shredded chicken and add soy sauce if you’re using it.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
- Simmer the soup for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Add fresh cilantro for a fragrant and flavorful touch, if desired.
- Serve the soup hot and enjoy!
Why This Soup is a Winner
1. Perfect Balance of Flavors
This soup brings together the savory goodness of chicken, the natural sweetness of corn, and the aromatic depth of garlic and onions. The optional soy sauce adds an extra layer of umami, making each spoonful irresistible.
2. Nutrient-Packed Goodness
With lean chicken breast, nutrient-rich vegetables, and the wholesome flavors of homemade broth, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
3. Easy and Versatile
You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences—add more vegetables, use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or skip the soy sauce for a lighter flavor.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup
- Use Fresh Corn: If you have fresh corn available, it will elevate the soup’s flavor. Simply cut the kernels off the cob before adding them to the pot.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Add Spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken breast.
- Double the Batch: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, so consider doubling the recipe for easy meal prep.
FAQs About Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup
1. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! This soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce or omit the soy sauce altogether.
2. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! Canned corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse the kernels before adding them to the pot.
3. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This soup is versatile. Consider adding diced zucchini, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
6. Is there a vegetarian option?
To make this soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the shredded chicken with tofu or additional vegetables.
Final Thoughts: Comfort in a Bowl
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of Hearty Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup to bring comfort and joy to your day. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a family dinner, or a simple way to nourish your body, this soup ticks all the boxes.
So why not give this recipe a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the comforting flavors of this homemade classic. Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you!