Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup

Name: Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups vegetable broth; 3 tablespoons miso paste; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup snap peas; 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup tofu, cubed; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Delicious Meals

I absolutely love making Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup, especially on chilly days when comfort food is a must. The warmth of the broth combined with fresh vegetables and tender chicken creates a bowl of pure delight. Miso adds an earthy umami flavor that makes every spoonful satisfying. It's a quick and nourishing dish that I turn to when I'm looking for something healthy yet hearty. Plus, it’s customizable with whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a flexible and enjoyable recipe.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:45:28.147Z

When I first tried making miso soup at home, I was skeptical about how it would turn out. I remember using a rich, stone-ground miso paste for depth, and the results blew me away! The vibrant colors of assorted vegetables made the dish as appealing as it was delicious.

One specific tip I picked up is to always add the miso paste towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its beneficial probiotics. This small tweak not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the nutrients intact. Now, this soup has become a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and fulfilling with a perfect blend of protein and veggies
Rich umami flavor from the miso paste that warms the soul
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

The Role of Miso in Your Soup

Miso paste is the star of this Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup, bringing a satisfying umami flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s critical to choose the right type of miso for your specific taste; white miso offers a milder taste, while red miso gives a deeper, more intense flavor. Whisking the miso with hot broth before adding it to the pot ensures it dissolves completely, preventing any graininess in the soup.

For the best flavor, consider using a high-quality, organic miso paste. When you incorporate it into the soup, wait until the end of the cooking process to add it to preserve its beneficial probiotics. The residual heat from the soup will enhance the flavor without destroying these nutrients, making your meal not only delicious but also healthy.

Selecting the Right Vegetables

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to use seasonal or leftover vegetables. Carrots add a subtle sweetness and color, while shiitake mushrooms contribute an earthy depth. For a colorful presentation and added crunch, snap peas are an excellent choice that cooks quickly, retaining their vibrant green hue and snap. If you want to experiment, feel free to swap in bok choy, spinach, or even zucchini for unique textures and flavors.

When adding vegetables, aim for a variety of textures: crunchy, tender, and creamy. For a heartier version, consider including thinly sliced daikon or radishes, which can stand up to longer cooking times while adding an extra flavor dimension. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly—aim for about 10 minutes until veggies are tender but still vibrant.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup is a perfect candidate for meal prep. If you plan to make it ahead of time, I recommend storing the broth separately from the vegetables and chicken. This method keeps the veggies crisp and the chicken tender when reheated. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. Just remember to leave out the tofu until you reheat the soup, as it can become spongy when frozen and thawed.

When reheating, do so gently over medium heat until warmed through but avoid boiling, which can cause the miso to lose some flavor and probiotics. If you find the soup too thick upon reheating, feel free to add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups vegetable broth
3 tablespoons miso paste
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup snap peas
1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1 cup tofu, cubed
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated

Ensure all your ingredients are prepared before starting to cook, as this makes the process smooth and efficient.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup:

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat. When it begins to simmer, add the garlic and ginger, allowing it to infuse the broth for about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Chicken

Add the carrots and shiitake mushrooms to the pot and let them cook for another 10 minutes until tender. Then, stir in the shredded chicken and snap peas.

Incorporate Miso

In a bowl, whisk the miso paste with a ladleful of hot broth until smooth, then return it to the pot. Gently stir in the tofu cubes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chicken and vegetable miso soup!

Make sure to taste the soup before serving to adjust the seasoning, if necessary.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes. You can also use other vegetables like bok choy or spinach based on your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Vegetable Miso Soup can be enjoyed on its own, but I love pairing it with a bowl of steamed rice or a side of sushi for a more complete meal. For added flavor, consider drizzling a touch of sesame oil or sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving, which adds a nice nutty touch and enhances the overall experience.

If you're feeling adventurous, add a splash of soy sauce or a few drops of chili oil for some kick. Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil, can also be a delightful addition to brighten up the soup right before serving.

Customizing Your Miso Soup

One of the reasons this recipe is so loved is its adaptability. You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or even keep it completely vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more tofu or protein alternatives like seitan. This way, the soup can cater to various dietary needs without losing its beloved flavor.

You can also try different flavor profiles by incorporating small amounts of miso-based sauces or pastes. For instance, incorporating spicy miso can give your soup a delightful kick, or adding a spoonful of red curry paste can transform it into a Thai-inspired soup. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Tofu, shrimp, or even beef can be great alternatives.

→ Is miso soup good for you?

Yes! Miso is rich in nutrients and probiotics, making it beneficial for gut health.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken with extra tofu and use vegetable broth as specified.

→ How long does leftover soup stay good?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it can last for up to 3 days.