Name: Irresistibly Spicy Comfort: Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup
Prep time: 11 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 26 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Gochujang (Adds rich depth and slight sweetness.); 1 tbsp Gochugaru (Adjust based on spice preference.); 1 tbsp Perilla Seeds Powder (Introduces a nutty flavor.); 1 tbsp Doenjang (Traditional soybean paste for umami.); 4 cups Water (Adjust for desired consistency.); 4 cups Chicken Stock (Essential for flavor.); 2 tbsp Butter (For sautéing vegetables.); 2 pieces Onions, chopped (Provide sweetness.); 2 pieces Carrots, chopped (Adds brightness.); 6 cloves Garlic, crushed (Enhances savory experience.); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances flavors.); 1 tsp Pepper (Adds subtle kick.); 1 tbsp Dried Oregano (Introduces earthy flavor.); 1 tbsp Dried Basil (Infuses aromatic qualities.); 3 pieces Chicken Breasts (Main protein for the soup.); 200 grams Egg Noodles (Contributes to heartiness.)

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There’s nothing quite like coming home after a long day and embracing the comforting aroma of a homemade meal wafting through the air. In my kitchen, one recipe that never fails to warm my soul is this Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup. Picture tender chicken simmering in a savory broth, dancing together with slurp-worthy noodles and a kick of spicy gochujang. The first spoonful encapsulates the essence of a cozy evening—it’s not just a meal, but a hug in a bowl.

After a spontaneous gathering with friends, I found myself replicating those vibrant flavors we enjoyed together, resulting in this quick and satisfying dish. In just 26 minutes, you can whip up something that feels like a labor of love, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining. Come and savor the warmth of this delightful soup, where ease meets irresistible flavor, leaving you and your loved ones asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup

Quick Preparation: This soup is ready in just 26 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Irresistible Flavor: The fusion of gochujang with hearty chicken and noodles creates a rich, spicy taste that tantalizes the taste buds.

Homemade Happiness: Feel the warm embrace of a homemade meal as the kitchen fills with comforting aromas.

Versatile Ingredients: Customize this dish with your favorite veggies or substitute proteins like tofu or shrimp – options are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family gatherings, this soup will have everyone at the table asking for more. Experience this delightful flavor with a side of Savory Chicken Caesar for a complete feast!

Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Dive into the world of flavor with this comforting dish!

For the Soup Base

Gochujang – Adds a rich depth and slight sweetness, infusing the soup with its signature spicy flavor.
Gochugaru – These red pepper flakes provide heat and vibrant color; adjust to match your spice preference.
Perilla Seeds Powder – Introduces a nutty flavor that enhances the soup’s richness.
Doenjang – This traditional soybean paste contributes umami flavor and authenticity to the broth.
Water – Helps combine pastes for the soup base; adjust as needed for desired consistency.
Chicken Stock – The flavorful foundation essential for any good soup.

For the Vegetables

Butter – Adds a luxurious richness and is used for sautéing vegetables.
Onions (2, chopped) – Provide essential sweetness; cook until tender to enhance the overall flavor.
Carrots (2, chopped) – Add brightness and sweetness, making the dish visually appealing.
Garlic (6 cloves, crushed) – Essential for its hearty aroma, enhancing the savory experience.
Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for enhancing and balancing the myriad flavors in the soup.
Pepper (1 tsp) – Adds a subtle kick that rounds out the flavor profile.
Dried Oregano (1 tbsp) – Introduces an earthy, fresh flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Dried Basil (1 tbsp) – Infuses aromatic qualities, making each spoonful fragrant and inviting.

For the Protein and Noodles

Chicken Breasts (3) – The main protein, ensuring a juicy, tender, and shredded texture that soaks up the delicious broth.
Egg Noodles (100-200 grams) – Soak up the flavorful broth, contributing to the heartiness and comfort of this spicy comfort Korean-inspired chicken soup.

Feel free to personalize your broth adventure!

How to Make Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup

Prepare Flavor Base: Combine gochujang, gochugaru, perilla seeds, doenjang, and water in a bowl; mix until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Sauté Vegetables: In your Instant Pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onions, carrots, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil until the onions are translucent and the veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the prepared spice mixture and half the chicken stock. Add the chicken breasts and the remaining stock, ensuring everything is well combined.
Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to manual pressure for 15 minutes. After cooking, perform a quick release and remove the chicken, shredding it using two forks.
Add Noodles: Return to the pot and stir in the egg noodles. If the broth looks too thick, feel free to add a splash more stock or water as needed. Cook under manual pressure for an additional 4 minutes.
Final Cook & Serve: Once done, quickly release the pressure. Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot and serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a lovely finish.

Optional: Top with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup Variations

Unleash your creativity in the kitchen and transform this comforting soup into your own culinary masterpiece!

Vegetable Boost: Add chopped mushrooms, bok choy, or baby spinach for extra nutrition and texture. Each bite becomes a delightful surprise!
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood twist. Both choices offer unique flavors while retaining the soup’s comforting essence.
Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream right before serving for a luscious, creamy broth that balances the spice beautifully.
Flavor Explosion: Drizzle with sesame oil or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top to enhance the umami flavor and add a delightful crunch.
Heat Level Adjustment: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of gochugaru or add sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick without overwhelming heat.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or chives to brighten the dish and introduce a new aroma that elevates your dining experience.
Noodle Variety: Switch out egg noodles for rice noodles, udon, or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free twist. Each type will bring its own unique chewiness to the soup!
Spice it Up: Add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who crave an extra fiery zip in each bowl.

Enjoy customizing your spicy comfort Korean-inspired chicken soup, and let it warm your heart and soul with every delicious spoonful!

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade flavors even on the busiest days! You can prepare the flavor base (gochujang, gochugaru, perilla seeds, doenjang, and water) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and store them separately for up to 3 days, which helps to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply sauté the prepped veggies, combine all ingredients, and follow the cooking instructions as noted. This way, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal ready with minimal effort—just as delightful as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup

Balance the Heat: Adjust gochugaru based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder soup, start with a smaller amount and taste before adding more.
Creamier Broth: For added richness, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or cream right before serving. This also complements the spicy flavors beautifully.
Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions right before serving enhances the flavor profile and adds a lovely pop of color.
Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to add extra veggies like bok choy, mushrooms, or spinach. This not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the overall texture of your soup.
Storage Tips: Store leftover spicy comfort Korean-inspired chicken soup in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently and add a splash of water or stock to revive the broth.

Storage Tips for Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the soup is completely cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: To freeze, place the soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen soup overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to restore the desired consistency. Enjoy your spicy comfort Korean-inspired chicken soup!

What to Serve with Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup?

Pair this deliciously warm dish with sides that enhance its savory and spicy flavors, creating a stunning meal experience.

Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy rice absorbs the bold broth beautifully and provides a satisfying texture.
Korean Pancakes: Known as “jeon,” these savory pancakes add a crispy element and serve as a delightful appetizer or side.
Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of kimchi or pickled radishes brightens the palette, balancing the savory warmth of the soup.
Sesame Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with sesame oil brings freshness and a touch of nuttiness that complements the spicy soup.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Crisp and cool, this salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth and heat, making every bite special.
Jasmine Tea: A soothing drink choice that cleanses the palate and enhances the exotic flavors of your meal, inviting warmth with every sip.

Make every meal memorable by considering these delightful combinations!

Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best gochujang for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting gochujang, look for a brand that has a rich red color and a slightly thick consistency. High-quality gochujang will have a balance of spicy, sweet, and fermented flavors. Check the ingredient list for minimal additives; ideally, it should contain just chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt.

How long can I store leftover soup in the fridge?
You can store your delicious Spicy Comfort Korean-Inspired Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can impact texture and flavor.

Can I freeze this soup, and what’s the best way to do it?
Yes! To freeze your soup, ladle it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. Your soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

What should I do if the soup is too spicy for my taste?
Very! If you find the soup’s heat overwhelming, try adding a bit of coconut milk or cream, which will mellow the spice without compromising flavor. Alternatively, you can stir in cooked rice or extra noodles to dilute the spiciness while adding more substance.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free noodles, it’s important to check that your chicken stock and all sauces (like gochujang and doenjang) are gluten-free as well. If cooking for those with allergies or dietary restrictions, we suggest asking about the ingredients used or providing alternative options like tofu for a different protein source.