Best Easy Chicken and Lotus Seed Soup Recipe

Tender chicken and delicate lotus seeds simmer in a clear broth for a calming, nourishing soup. This high protein, healthy family dish is prized for promoting restful sleep in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Cook 75 min Difficulty NORMAL 220 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • bone-in chicken pieces 1.5 lbs
  • dried lotus seeds 1 cup
  • sliced fresh ginger 5 slices
  • scallions 2 pieces
  • water 8 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1.5 tsp
  • white pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 13 g 23%
Protein 22 g 40%
Fat 8 g 37%
Serving size 300g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak the dried lotus seeds in cool water for at least 1 hour (or overnight if desired) to soften. Drain before use.

  2. 2

    In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then blanch for 2 minutes to remove impurities. Discard the blanching water and rinse the chicken.

  3. 3

    Add the blanched chicken, soaked lotus seeds, ginger slices, scallions, and 8 cups of fresh water to the clean pot. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

  4. 4

    Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and gently simmer for 90–120 minutes, skimming off any foam. This slow simmer develops a clear, aromatic broth and tenderizes the chicken and lotus seeds.

  5. 5

    Remove ginger and scallions. Season the soup with salt and white pepper. Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes on low heat. Serve hot, garnished with extra scallion if desired.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The standout ingredients are bone-in chicken, which provides rich umami and protein, and dried lotus seeds, which add a delicate, creamy texture unique to this soup. Their combination defines both the nutritional value and the soup’s gentle, signature character.
Q. What’s a crucial cooking point for clear, flavorful broth?
One critical step is blanching the chicken before making the broth, which removes impurities for clarity. Simmering gently over low heat for 90–120 minutes ensures full flavor extraction while keeping the soup clear and the meat tender.
Q. How do I avoid mushy or hard lotus seeds?
Soak the dried lotus seeds for at least an hour before simmering. Gentle simmering (not boiling) over low heat allows the seeds to become soft and creamy, but not mushy. Monitor texture during the last 20 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?
Each serving (300g) contains about 220 kcal and provides a high-protein content of 22 grams per serving, making this soup a robust choice for those mindful of nutrition.
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