In my bustling kitchen, the sound of simmering broth is a familiar and comforting melody. Recently, I set out to create a dish that not only warms the soul but also feels like a hug from the inside. That’s when I crafted this Easy Abalone Chicken Soup—an incredible blend of tender chicken, flavorful abalone, and warm spices, perfect for family dinners or special occasions like Chinese New Year.

Imagine the satisfying aroma of ginger mingling with the rich poultry notes, beckoning your loved ones to gather around the table. What I adore about this soup is how effortlessly it comes together with just a handful of ingredients, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. It’s a dish that captivates the senses and invites stories to be shared over steaming bowls, making every meal feel like a celebration. Whether you’re looking to impress at a festive gathering or simply seeking solace after a long day, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and luxurious. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Abalone Chicken Soup

Comforting Warmth: This soup is the ultimate hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.

Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of tender chicken and abalone creates a broth that’s deeply satisfying.

Quick and Simple: With easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without hassle, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Family Friendly: A nourishing meal that brings everyone together, this soup is loved by kids and adults alike.

Celebratory Delight: Perfect for festive occasions like Chinese New Year, it adds a touch of elegance to your table.

Gather your loved ones and enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness with this wonderful recipe!

Abalone Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Everything you need for a delicious bowl!

For the Soup Base

2.5 lb whole chicken – This serves as the main protein and creates a rich, flavorful broth; consider using a mix of chicken parts for better texture.
1 Cup chicken broth – Enhances the soup’s depth of flavor; homemade is preferred, but store-bought can work in a pinch.
1 can abalone – Provides a unique seafood flavor; feel free to substitute with fresh abalone added towards the end of cooking for a fresher taste.

For the Aromatics

2-inch fresh ginger – Adds aromatic warmth and can be left unpeeled if thoroughly washed to save time.
5 dried scallops – These contribute umami depth; you can replace them with other dried seafood like anchovies if desired.

For Added Texture

2 oz beech mushrooms – Introduces texture and nutritional value; they’re optional but highly recommended for extra flavor.
¼-½ teaspoon salt – Adjusts flavor to your preference; start with less and add more based on the soup’s broth concentration.

This Easy Abalone Chicken Soup blends all these delightful ingredients to create a heartwarming experience that’s sure to please!

How to Make Abalone Chicken Soup

Prepare Ingredients: Begin by rinsing the dried scallops and soaking them in hot water for about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, smash and slice the fresh ginger to release its fragrant aroma.
Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add the whole chicken, 4 liters of water, chicken broth, can of abalone (along with its liquid), ginger, dried scallops, and the soaking water from the scallops.
Cook Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium high heat. Then, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer (no large bubbles) for 1.5 to 2 hours, skimming off any scum that forms on the surface.
Add Mushrooms: About five minutes before you’re ready to serve, add in the beech mushrooms. Increase the heat slightly to ensure they cook through and become tender.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning by adding salt as needed. Serve it hot, and let the delightful aroma fill your home!

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Abalone Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Abalone Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until steaming hot to maintain flavor and quality.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, use a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving to achieve even heating without compromising the soup’s texture.

Avoid Repeated Heating: Ideally, reheat only once to preserve the soup’s delicious flavors and ensure a safe dining experience.

Abalone Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—there are endless ways to make it your own!

Seafood Swap: Replace dried scallops with other dried seafood like shrimp for a different flavor profile. The ocean’s bounty offers versatile options.
Mushroom Mix: Use a variety of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a richer texture and deeper umami. Experimenting with fungi can unlock delightful flavors!
Broth Boost: For a more robust flavor, try using homemade stock instead of store-bought. The love you pour into making your broth will shine through.
Spice it Up: Add a splash of soy sauce or a hint of sesame oil for enhanced depth and a touch of authenticity. These little additions can make a big flavor impact!
Veggie Delight: Toss in some chopped bok choy or spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and a pop of color. This will really brighten your soup!
Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with tofu and vegetable broth, and add an extra handful of your favorite vegetables for a heartwarming vegan twist. This version keeps the essence while catering to plant-based diets.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions as a garnish for a fragrant finish. These bright accents can elevate your dish to gourmet status!
Heat Up: If you enjoy spice, add some sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil during cooking for a warm kick that lingers. Your adventurous palette will appreciate the thrill!

Make Ahead Options

These Abalone Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base (the chicken, broth, abalone, ginger, and dried scallops) up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure the mixture is in an airtight container to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just bring the mix to a boil and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, then add the mushrooms in the last five minutes before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a heartwarming meal with minimal effort, and it will still taste just as delightful!

What to Serve with Abalone Chicken Soup?

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring everyone together, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it soaks up the delicious broth, making every bite even more satisfying.
Fresh Veggie Spring Rolls: Crisp vegetables wrapped in rice paper offer a refreshing contrast, perfect for balancing the soup’s rich flavors.
Garlic Bok Choy: This sautéed green vegetable not only provides vibrant color but also adds a nutritious crunch that complements the soup beautifully.
Savory Meat Dumplings: Soft and savory, these little filled pockets of delight pair wonderfully with the soup, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Chili Oil Drizzle: A splash of chili oil brings a hint of heat that cuts through the soup’s richness and adds an exciting flavor kick.
Lemon Herbal Tea: This soothing drink can refresh your palate between bites, enhancing the comforting flavors of the soup while inviting relaxation.

Let’s gather around the table, enjoy these delightful pairings, and make your meal an unforgettable experience!

Expert Tips for Abalone Chicken Soup

Blanching Option: Blanch the chicken before simmering for a clearer broth; this step is optional but enhances the soup’s visual appeal.
Simmering Duration: Allow the soup to simmer longer for an even richer flavor, but keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from drying out.
Use of Abalone Brine: Adding some of the canned abalone brine can amplify the broth’s flavor, providing a delicious seafood essence.
Don’t Skip the Salt: Salt is crucial for taste, so start with a small amount and gradually adjust based on the broth’s concentration while preparing your Abalone Chicken Soup.
Adjusting Ingredients: Feel free to replace dried scallops with other dried seafood for varied flavors; this can bring new life to your soup!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, reheating gently to maintain quality.

Abalone Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for the soup?
You can use a whole chicken (2.5 lb is ideal) for a rich, flavorful broth, or opt for a mix of chicken parts like wings and thighs for extra texture. While some prefer a whole chicken for presentation, I often include various parts to achieve a more gelatinous and satisfying broth.

How do I store leftover Abalone Chicken Soup?
Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat until it’s steaming hot, making sure to stir occasionally to maintain an even temperature and prevent burning. This gentle reheating preserves the heartwarming qualities of your soup.

Can I freeze Abalone Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave a little space at the top of the container for the soup to expand as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove before serving to preserve that delightful flavor and texture.

What if the broth is too salty or bland?
If your soup turned out too salty, adding a few slices of raw potato can help absorb some excess salt while simmering for a short while. If it’s bland, you can enhance the flavor by incorporating more salt, or adding a splash more of chicken broth, or even a little abalone brine, which intensifies the marine notes beautifully. Just remember to taste as you go!

Can I use different seafood instead of abalone or dried scallops?
Yes, feel free to swap the abalone with other seafood options like clams or shrimp, or substitute dried scallops with dried fish or even anchovies. These alternatives can bring unique flavors and textures to your soup while still keeping the memorable essence of the dish. Just consider how these might alter the overall taste profile.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Since this recipe includes seafood and chicken, it’s important to consider allergies to shellfish or poultry. If you’re serving anyone with specific dietary needs, you may want to substitute the seafood with vegetables or enhance the recipe with tofu while ensuring it aligns with their dietary preferences. Always check with your guests to be safe!