Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup

Name: Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons miso paste; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 carrot, sliced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup spinach leaves; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

I love making Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup because it’s the ultimate comfort food that warms both my heart and my stomach. With a perfect balance of savory miso and tender chicken, this soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. I find myself playing with different vegetables, which not only adds color but also increases the nutritional value. Each spoonful bursts with flavor, and it’s so easy to customize according to what’s in the fridge.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:02:27.767Z

When I first tried making miso soup, I thought it would be complicated, but I quickly realized it’s a straightforward process. Using high-quality miso paste is essential, and I love experimenting with different types like white or red. The addition of seasonal vegetables keeps it fresh and vibrant.

One key tip I discovered is to add the miso toward the end of cooking. This preserves its delicate flavor and probiotic benefits, ensuring a delicious and nutritious soup that not only fills you up but also makes you feel great.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty chicken flavor paired with umami-rich miso
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Customizable with your favorite seasonal vegetables

Maximizing Flavor with Miso

Miso paste is a fermented soybean product that adds deep umami flavor to this soup, but the type you choose can significantly alter the taste. White miso is sweeter and milder, while red miso offers a stronger, saltier flavor. I recommend starting with white miso for a lighter profile and adjusting as you explore other types. Make sure to dissolve the miso in warm broth before adding it to avoid clumping and to ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the soup.

When incorporating miso, it's critical to avoid boiling the pot after adding it, as high heat can diminish its probiotic benefits and alter the flavor. A gentle simmer is optimal. Stirring to combine the miso should take just a minute, and you’ll notice a beautiful golden hue as it integrates with the broth, enhancing both the color and richness of the soup.

Vegetable Substitutions and Additions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, and you can easily swap in seasonal vegetables based on availability or personal preference. For instance, bok choy, snap peas, or even chopped kale can add variety and nutrition. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; firmer vegetables like carrots will require longer to become tender compared to softer ones like spinach or zucchini.

If you're looking to lighten the soup further, you can reduce the amount of chicken and increase the vegetable content. Just be mindful to maintain the balance of flavors—you might consider adding an extra tablespoon of miso or a splash of soy sauce to boost the savory notes as you add more veggies.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this nourishing soup.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons miso paste
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 carrot, sliced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup spinach leaves
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prep your ingredients in advance for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful bowl of Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup.

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.

Add the Broth and Vegetables

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the mushrooms, carrot, and zucchini. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 10 minutes.

Incorporate Miso and Spinach

In a small bowl, mix the miso paste with a little warm broth to dissolve. Stir it back into the pot along with the spinach and green onions. Let it cook for another 2 minutes.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot!

Enjoy your homemade soup with some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu and vegetable broth. Miso adds depth, so adjust to your taste preference.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, it's best to separate the soup from any ingredients that may continue to cook, like the spinach, to avoid overcooking them. You can add the spinach back in when reheating to maintain its vibrant color and texture.

When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup seems a little thick after refrigeration, you can add a splash of water or additional chicken broth to restore its original consistency.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easily scales up or down, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. To double the recipe, simply maintain the same proportions of ingredients and broth, but be mindful of your pot size. A larger stockpot will help accommodate the increased volume without risk of overflowing during boiling.

If you're cooking for a smaller group, reduce the ingredient quantities by half. It’s a safe bet to round down slightly on broth if you’re cutting the recipe, especially since thicker soup is often preferred. Just be sure to taste and adjust the miso and seasoning accordingly to keep the flavors balanced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! Tofu or shrimp are great alternatives.

→ How long can I store the soup?

It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is miso soup gluten-free?

It depends on the miso paste used. Look for gluten-free versions.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bok choy, bell peppers, or any seasonal veggies you prefer.