Chicken Shorba Recipe

Mellow and warming, the Chicken Shorba Recipe is a spiced chicken soup that brings comfort and coziness to your table. Perfect for winter months or any time you crave something delicious, this one-pot dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and warm spices that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices creates a comforting broth that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with rice or bread for a heartier meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious components, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Shorba smoothly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help ensure your cooking experience is efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Colander
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and maintaining heat.
• Colander: Useful for draining the shorba without losing any precious broth.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon ghee or butter
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3-4 garlic cloves, skin on
• 2 inch ginger, roughly chopped
• 15 fresh cilantro stalks, stems & leaves chopped separately
• 1 bay leaf
• 1-2 Kashmiri Dried Chili
• 8 black peppercorn

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) bone-in skinless chicken thighs & drumsticks (see notes)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

For the Broth

• 4 cups warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional) or use 1/4 cup milk

To Serve

• Lemon slices
• Chopped scallions

How to Make Chicken Shorba Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Place the pot on medium heat to warm up. Add ghee and let it melt. If using an Instant Pot, follow its instructions as needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Once the ghee has melted, add the onion, garlic, ginger, cilantro stems, and whole spices all at once. Sauté in ghee for about 1 minute without letting them brown too much.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Layer the chicken pieces in the pot and let them lightly sear for about a minute on each side. Sprinkle salt over the chicken and add enough water to cover it completely.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 35 to 45 minutes. Check midway; if foam collects on top, remove it with a spoon. If using an Instant Pot, close its lid and cook for 8 minutes before allowing pressure to release naturally.

Step 5: Strain and Shred Chicken

Using a colander, drain and separate the shorba. Remove chicken pieces from the pot and let them cool before shredding or chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Discard bones along with spices and vegetables before pouring back the shorba into the pot.

Step 6: Final Touches

Bring to a slow simmer again. Add shredded chicken back into the pot along with chopped cilantro leaves, garam masala, black pepper, and heavy cream if desired. Cook gently for another 5 minutes without boiling.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Ladle into bowls and serve warm with lemon slices and scattered scallions on top. Enjoy your comforting Chicken Shorba!

How to Serve Chicken Shorba Recipe

Serving Chicken Shorba is all about enhancing its warmth and comfort. This delightful spiced chicken soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
• Scallions: Add finely chopped scallions for an extra crunch and mild onion flavor.

With Citrus

• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish.
• Lime Zest: For a unique twist, sprinkle lime zest over the soup before serving.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: Pair with warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Naan or Roti: Traditional Indian breads like naan or roti enhance the dining experience.

As Part of a Meal

• Rice Pilaf: Serve alongside fragrant rice pilaf for a filling meal.
• Salad: A light salad with cucumbers and tomatoes can balance the richness of the shorba.

How to Perfect Chicken Shorba Recipe

Perfecting your Chicken Shorba is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and spices. They bring out the best flavors in your shorba.
• Control Heat Carefully: Simmer gently rather than boiling. This helps maintain a rich broth texture without overcooking the chicken.
• Don’t Skip the Foam Removal: As you cook, skim off any foam that rises to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for balanced seasoning.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the shorba to rest enhances its flavors as they meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels or add new ones based on your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shorba Recipe

Complementing your Chicken Shorba with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Basmati Rice: A fragrant rice that pairs well, soaking up the flavors of the soup.
2. Vegetable Pakoras: Crispy vegetable fritters offer a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
3. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip that balances spices nicely.
4. Stuffed Parathas: Flaky flatbreads filled with potatoes or paneer add heartiness to your meal.
5. Spiced Lentil Salad: A nutritious salad that brings additional textures and flavors.
6. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds a healthy crunch while complementing the soup’s warmth.
7. Mixed Green Salad: Light greens dressed simply can refresh your palate between bites of shorba.
8. Chickpea Curry: A mild chickpea curry can enhance protein content while harmonizing with the chicken flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Shorba can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold Flavoring: Overloading on spices can overpower the dish. Start with smaller amounts and adjust to taste.
• Bold Temperature Control: Boiling too vigorously can cause chicken to become tough. Maintain a gentle simmer for best results.
• Bold Ingredient Substitutions: Using different types of chicken or cutting corners on quality can alter the taste. Stick to bone-in, skinless cuts for richer flavor.
• Bold Timing Issues: Not allowing enough time for the flavors to meld can result in a bland soup. Follow the cooking times closely for optimal results.
• Bold Skipping the Garnish: Neglecting fresh herbs and lemon when serving can diminish freshness. Always add garnishes just before serving for a vibrant touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Shorba in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Shorba Recipe

• Freeze Chicken Shorba in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It will maintain quality for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Shorba Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Shorba.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but bone-in pieces provide more flavor.

How do I make Chicken Shorba spicier?

Add more Kashmiri dried chili or include fresh green chilies according to taste.

What is the best way to garnish Chicken Shorba?

Fresh cilantro and lemon slices are excellent garnishes that enhance flavor.

How long does Chicken Shorba take to cook?

The total cooking time is usually around 45 minutes, ensuring tender chicken and rich flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting for a day as flavors develop further.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shorba Recipe is perfect for cozy evenings and chilly days. Its comforting warmth and rich flavors make it a versatile choice that you can customize with your favorite spices or vegetables. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Shorba Recipe

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Warm up with our flavorful Chicken Shorba Recipe! This comforting spiced chicken soup is a delightful way to bring warmth into your home during chilly days. Infused with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, this one-pot dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The tender chicken simmers beautifully in a rich broth, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with crusty bread or rice for a heartier experience. With its nourishing ingredients and robust flavors, this Chicken Shorba will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon ghee or butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3–4 garlic cloves
• 2-inch piece of ginger, chopped
• 15 fresh cilantro stalks (stems and leaves separated)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1–2 Kashmiri dried chilies
• 8 black peppercorns
• 1 lb bone-in skinless chicken thighs & drumsticks
• 4 cups warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream or 1/4 cup milk (optional)
• Lemon slices for serving
• Chopped scallions for serving

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt ghee over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, cilantro stems, and whole spices for about 1 minute.
3. Add chicken pieces; sear lightly for about a minute on each side. Sprinkle salt and add enough water to cover.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes.
5. Use a colander to strain the soup; remove chicken pieces to shred them after cooling.
6. Return soup to pot; add shredded chicken, cilantro leaves, garam masala, and black pepper. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
7. Serve warm with lemon slices and scallions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg