Chicken Shorba Recipe

Mellow and warming, the Chicken Shorba Recipe is a comforting spiced chicken soup perfect for cold days. This delightful dish is easy to prepare and brings warmth to any gathering. With aromatic spices and tender chicken, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Heartwarming Comfort: The Chicken Shorba offers a cozy feel with every bowl, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
• Simple Preparation: With just one pot and straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Infused with spices like garam masala and black pepper, each spoonful bursts with rich flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a starter or pair it with rice or bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from fresh herbs, it’s both delicious and nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Shorba Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot or Dutch oven
• Colander
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering and developing flavors in soups like Chicken Shorba.
• Colander: Helps in separating the chicken from the broth easily after cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for preparing your ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Base Flavor

• 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

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) bone-in skinless chicken thighs & drumsticks (see notes)

For Seasoning

• 1 bay leaf
• 1-2 Kashmiri Dried Chili
• 8 black peppercorn
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

For the Broth

• 4 cups warm water

For Finishing Touches

• 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: Heat the Ghee

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

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Layer the chicken pieces into the pot:
1. Let them lightly sear for about one minute on each side.
2. Sprinkle salt over the chicken and add enough water to completely cover it.

Step 4: Simmer the Broth

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

Step 5: Separate Chicken from Broth

Using a colander:
1. Drain and separate the shorba (broth).
2. Pick out the chicken pieces; let them cool.
3. Once cooled, shred or chop the chicken meat and discard bones along with spices and vegetables.
4. Pour back the shorba into the pot.

Step 6: Final Simmer with Chicken

Bring to a slow simmer:
1. Add shredded chicken back into the pot along with chopped cilantro leaves, garam masala, black pepper, and heavy cream (if using).
2. Let cook for an additional five minutes without boiling.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls:
– 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 a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. This spiced chicken soup pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for any meal.

With Fresh Lemon

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shorba for a bright and zesty flavor that balances the spices.

Chopped Scallions

• Scatter chopped scallions on top for added crunch and a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

Warm Bread

• Serve with warm naan or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, adding a hearty touch to your meal.

Rice Pilaf

• Accompany the shorba with fragrant rice pilaf for a complete meal. The rice absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Side Salad

• A light side salad can add freshness to your meal. Consider using cucumber, tomato, and mint for a refreshing combination.

Yogurt Raita

• Serve a cooling yogurt raita on the side. It helps tone down the spice and adds creaminess to each bite.

How to Perfect Chicken Shorba Recipe

To make your Chicken Shorba truly exceptional, consider these tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices significantly elevate the taste of your shorba. Opt for high-quality ingredients whenever possible.

• Adjust Spices: Customize the spice levels by adding more or fewer dried chilies based on your preference for heat.

• Simmer Slowly: For richer flavors, allow the soup to simmer longer. This helps all ingredients meld together beautifully.

• Reserve Chicken Bones: If you use bone-in chicken, save a few bones while shredding for extra depth in flavor during cooking.

• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishes like cilantro leaves or lemon slices; they add visual appeal and freshness to every bowl.

• Experiment with Broth: Try using homemade chicken broth instead of water for an even deeper flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shorba Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Shorba can create a satisfying meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Naan Bread: Soft, fluffy naan is perfect for dipping into the rich soup broth.
2. Basmati Rice: Aromatic basmati rice complements the spices in shorba beautifully; consider adding saffron for extra flair.
3. Vegetable Pakoras: Crispy fritters made from mixed vegetables offer a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool counterpoint to the warmth of shorba.
5. Garlic Toast: Crunchy garlic toast is ideal for soaking up every last drop of shorba.
6. Spiced Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned potatoes add heartiness and pair well with the soup’s flavors.
7. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich chickpea salad adds texture and nutrition alongside your shorba.
8. Mint Chutney: A small dish of mint chutney offers an invigorating burst of flavor when enjoyed with each spoonful of shorba.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Shorba can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Not seasoning properly – If you skip adding salt early in the cooking process, the chicken may taste bland. Always season your ingredients at the start to enhance flavors.

• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for 35-45 minutes on low heat to keep it tender and juicy.

• Ignoring the foam – When simmering, foam may collect on top. Failing to skim it off can lead to a cloudy broth. Regularly check and remove any foam for a clearer soup.

• Using low-quality broth – A weak broth will result in a less flavorful shorba. Use good quality stock or homemade chicken broth for enhanced taste.

• Skipping fresh herbs – Fresh herbs elevate the flavor of Chicken Shorba. Don’t substitute with dried herbs; add chopped cilantro right before serving for freshness.

• Not letting it rest – Serving shorba immediately after cooking can lead to an uneven flavor profile. Letting it rest allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Shorba in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Chicken Shorba Recipe

• Freeze Chicken Shorba in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Chicken Shorba Recipe

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shorba in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

• Microwave – Transfer shorba to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.

• Stovetop – Pour shorba into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Chicken Shorba Recipe:

What is Chicken Shorba?

Chicken Shorba is a spiced chicken soup that offers warmth and comfort, especially during cold weather. It’s packed with flavors from herbs and spices.

Can I use boneless chicken for this Chicken Shorba Recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces; just adjust cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook and remain tender.

How do I customize my Chicken Shorba Recipe?

You can add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. Adjust spices based on your preference for heat or flavor profile.

Is Chicken Shorba healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is rich in protein and can be made healthier by using less cream or substituting with milk or plant-based alternatives.

Can I make Chicken Shorba in advance?

Yes! In fact, making it in advance allows flavors to deepen as it sits. Just store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shorba Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Try making this delightful soup today and enjoy its warming flavors!

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

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Chicken Shorba

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Chicken Shorba, a delightful spiced chicken soup perfect for chilly evenings. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic spices like garam masala and fresh herbs, creating a rich and flavorful broth that will warm your heart and home. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights, this dish can be served as a starter or paired with rice or bread for a wholesome meal. With simple preparation steps and nutritious ingredients, Chicken Shorba is not just satisfying but also healthy—making it a must-try for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon ghee or butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3–4 garlic cloves
• 2 inches ginger, chopped
• 1 lb bone-in skinless chicken thighs & drumsticks
• 4 cups warm water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1–2 Kashmiri Dried Chili
• 8 black peppercorns
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 15 fresh cilantro stalks, stems & leaves chopped separately
• 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
• Lemon slices
• Chopped scallions

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Instructions

1. Heat ghee in a pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, cilantro stems, and whole spices without browning.
3. Add chicken pieces; sear lightly on each side.
4. Sprinkle salt and add enough water to cover the chicken.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 35-45 minutes.
6. Drain the broth using a colander and shred the chicken once cooled.
7. Return broth to the pot; add shredded chicken, cilantro leaves, garam masala, black pepper, and cream (if using). Simmer for an additional five minutes.
8. Serve warm with lemon slices and scallions.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg