Chicken Udon Soup (鸡肉乌冬面)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Udon Soup is a comforting and nourishing bowl of thick, chewy udon noodles served in a light yet flavorful broth, topped with tender chicken and simple vegetables. Inspired by Japanese flavors with a Chinese twist, this quick and satisfying meal is perfect for chilly days or a soothing weeknight dinner.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless chicken thighs or breastssaltpeppersoy saucemirin or shaoxing winegarlic (minced)ginger (sliced)udon noodles (fresh or frozen)chicken brothwaterbok choy or napa cabbagescallions (sliced)sesame oiloptional toppings: soft-boiled egg, chili oil, mushrooms, seaweed

directions

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce and mirin.

In a pot, heat a bit of sesame oil over medium heat.

Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.

Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned.

Pour in chicken broth and water, bring to a simmer.

Let chicken simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.

Meanwhile, cook udon noodles according to package instructions, then rinse and set aside.

Add bok choy or napa cabbage to the simmering broth and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender.

Slice or shred the cooked chicken.

Divide cooked noodles into bowls, ladle hot broth and vegetables over them, and top with chicken.

Garnish with scallions, and add a soft-boiled egg or chili oil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2–3 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.

Add mushrooms like shiitake or enoki for umami depth.

Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for different protein options.

Spice it up with chili crisp or a dash of white pepper.

Add corn, bamboo shoots, or bean sprouts for texture.

storage/reheating

Store broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat broth on the stovetop, and refresh noodles in hot water before combining.

FAQs

Can I use dried udon noodles?

Yes, just cook them according to the package and rinse to prevent sticking.

Is this soup spicy?

Not unless you add chili oil or hot sauce—customize to your taste.

Can I freeze it?

Freeze the broth and chicken separately; add fresh noodles when reheating.

What broth works best?

A combination of chicken broth and water creates a light, balanced flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles as a substitute for udon.

Do I need mirin or shaoxing wine?

It adds depth, but you can skip or replace with a splash of rice vinegar and sugar.

Can I use chicken breast?

Yes, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful for this soup.

What’s a good vegetarian version?

Use vegetable broth, tofu, and lots of veggies—delicious and hearty.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes—prep the broth and protein ahead, and boil noodles just before serving.

Can I add miso?

Yes, stir in a spoonful at the end for added umami.

Conclusion

Chicken Udon Soup (鸡肉乌冬面) is a warm, savory, and soul-soothing bowl of noodles that brings together comfort and nutrition in one easy meal. With its tender chicken, aromatic broth, and thick noodles, it’s perfect for when you need something fast, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

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