The comforting aroma of Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the bustling streets of Taipei. This soul-warming dish combines tender chicken legs with the rich flavors of black sesame oil and ginger, creating a restorative soup that is perfect for chilly days. What I love about this recipe is it not only offers a delightful, nourishing meal but also takes just over an hour to prepare—ideal for those of us juggling busy lives. It’s a fantastic way to treat yourself and your loved ones to something homemade and wholesome, without spending all day in the kitchen. Curious how this traditional recipe can bring a taste of Taiwan to your table? Let’s get started!

Why Is This Soup So Nourishing?

Rich, Comforting Flavor: The combination of black sesame oil and ginger creates a deeply satisfying broth that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly nights.

Hearty and Wholesome: Featuring tender chicken legs, this dish is not just filling but also a nutrition-packed meal, ensuring you’re energized through the day.

Quick Preparation: It takes just over an hour to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners without sacrificing quality or flavor.

Health Benefits: The warming ingredients, like ginger and black sesame oil, are known for their health benefits, promoting digestion and blood circulation—ideal for self-care!

Versatile Base: Feel free to add veggies like napa cabbage or glass noodles for a heartier soup, making it customizable for everyone at your table.

Family-Friendly: This comforting dish is bound to be a favorite in your household, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy. If you love cozy soups, check out my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli or Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken for more delicious ideas!

Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Chicken Legs – A great source of protein, using bone-in parts enriches the broth’s flavor.
Black Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty aroma and warming effect; substitute with regular sesame oil for a milder taste.
Ginger – Offers warmth and supports digestion; opt for fresh ginger in thick slices to maximize flavor infusion.
Taiwanese Rice Wine (Michiu) – Deepens the soup’s flavor; if unavailable, dry sherry or any cooking wine works as a substitute.
Rock Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the dish; feel free to use regular granulated sugar in its place.
Water – Forms the soup’s base; adjust the amount for your preferred soup thickness.
Salt – Important for enhancing overall flavor; add to taste as you finish cooking.
Scallions – Use for garnish; they add freshness and a mild onion flavor, with options to customize as desired.

This Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup not only warms your heart but is packed with robust flavors and nourishing properties. Dive in and savor each comforting spoonful!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Step 1: Rinse and Prepare the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken legs under cold water to remove any impurities, then pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a nice sear later on. Make sure to prepare any other ingredients, like slicing the ginger, so you’re ready for the next steps.

Step 2: Heat the Pot and Sauté Ginger
In a thick-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of black sesame oil over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer—this typically takes about 2 minutes. Once hot, add the thickly sliced ginger and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, allowing the sesame oil to absorb that beautiful ginger aroma.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Increase the heat to high and carefully add the chicken legs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, ensuring the skin is crisp. This step locks in flavor, giving your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup a robust base.

Step 4: Add Wine, Sugar, and Water
Once the chicken is evenly browned, lower the heat back to medium. Pour in 1/4 cup of Taiwanese rice wine and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of rock sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then add enough water to cover the chicken, approximately 4 cups. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Cover the pot and let the chicken simmer on medium-low heat for 30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors from the ginger and sesame oil to permeate the broth and makes the chicken tender and juicy. Occasionally check to ensure a gentle simmer without rolling bubbles.

Step 6: Season and Garnish
After 30 minutes, taste the broth and add salt as needed to enhance the flavors. For an added touch of freshness, garnish your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup with a handful of julienned scallions just before serving. This vibrant finish adds a lovely crunch and color to your comforting dish.

Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it uniquely yours with these delightful options.

Vegetable Boost: Add napa cabbage or glass noodles for extra heartiness; they’ll soak up the flavorful broth beautifully.
For a more nutritious soup, incorporate your favorite vegetables—it’s a tasty way to make this dish truly filling.
Tofu Twist: Substitute chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option; simply cube and add during the simmering phase.
Tofu absorbs the rich flavors, ensuring you enjoy every comforting bite, making this soup accommodating to more dietary preferences.
Rice Upgrade: Replace water with chicken or vegetable broth to enhance the flavor profile of your soup; it adds another layer of depth.
Using broth allows the spices and sesame oil to shine while keeping the soup cozy and rich.
Spice It Up: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick; it’ll awaken your taste buds!
This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat, turning your comforting dish into a delightful spicy treat.
Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a creamier texture and a hint of sweetness; perfect for those who love rich flavors.
The creamy addition marries beautifully with the sesame oil, offering a tropical twist to the traditional recipe.
Citrus Splash: Include a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving; it brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
A citrus note elevates the soup while balancing the richness, making each spoonful even more enticing.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh garnish; they can uplift the flavor profile with herbal notes.
Adding herbs not only enhances visual appeal but also brings additional flavor dimensions, creating a vibrant soup experience.
Sweetness Variation: Adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup instead of rock sugar for a natural twist.
These alternatives bring different flavor nuances while still achieving that comforting sweetness that rounds out the dish perfectly.

If you’re interested in some cozy, hearty soups, be sure to check out my Butter Chicken Cozy or my Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipes—they’re full of flavor and perfect for chilly evenings!

How to Store and Freeze Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat in a pot over medium heat until steaming. Add a splash of water if the soup has thickened too much.

Serving Tip: Always taste and adjust seasoning after reheating; the flavors might strengthen during storage. Enjoy your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup as a nourishing meal any day of the week!

Expert Tips for Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Preparation Is Key: Rinse and dry the chicken thoroughly to achieve a lovely sear. This step prevents sticking and enhances the flavors of your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup.
Maintain the Heat: Allow your pot to reach medium-high heat before adding ingredients. This ensures that the ginger releases its aroma and flavors nicely, setting the foundation for the soup.
Gentle Simmer: Once the soup is combined, keep it at a gentle simmer rather than a boil. Boiling can cloud the broth and lead to a loss of flavor clarity, so be patient!
Customize Wisely: If you want to add vegetables like napa cabbage or glass noodles, do so towards the end of cooking. This helps prevent them from becoming overly soft and losing their nutrients.
Taste as You Go: Always taste the broth before serving! Adjust the salt and sweetness to your liking, ensuring the final dish is perfectly balanced.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect meal prep option!

What to Serve with Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Complement your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the cozy essence of this comforting soup.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A perfect neutral base, jasmine rice soaks up the rich broth, making every spoonful satisfying. The gentle floral aroma elevates your dining experience.
Garlic Greens: Sautéed garlic greens add a vibrant, crunchy contrast, lending freshness that brightens the flavors. Their garlicky kick complements the soup wonderfully.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites provide a delicious texture and can be filled with vegetables or meat, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the warm soup.
Pickled Cucumbers: The tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers balances the warm tones of the soup, refreshing your palate between spoonfuls. This contrast is both delicious and invigorating.
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken: For a fun and crispy side, this flavorful dish will bring a burst of joy to the table. It’s a wonderfully indulgent companion to the comforting soup.
Chrysanthemum Tea: This aromatic floral tea enhances the soothing qualities of the soup, promoting relaxation with every sip. It’s a delightful pairing for a calming meal.
Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal with this sweet and creamy dessert, contrasting the savory soup beautifully. The sticky rice with fresh mango provides a luscious, satisfying finale.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken with sesame oil, ginger, and rice wine up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, the soup can be fully cooked and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust the consistency. Enjoy this comforting dish just as delicious as when it was first made, with minimal effort!

Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this soup?
Use chicken legs for their flavor and tenderness. Bone-in parts, like thighs and drumsticks, will give you a richer broth. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless chicken can be used, but you may miss out on some of the depth in flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to retain its deliciousness. For best results, reheat on the stove to maintain the integrity of the flavors.

Can I freeze Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool down, then ladle it into freezer-safe containers—making sure to leave some space on top, as liquids expand when frozen. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What if my soup is too salty?
If you find your soup a bit too salty, you can add a splash of water or more unsalted chicken broth to dilute it. Another great trick is to add a peeled potato into the soup while reheating. The potato will absorb some of the saltiness. Just remember to remove it before serving!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re cooking for someone with allergies or specific dietary needs, it’s important to check ingredient labels. For instance, Taiwanese rice wine contains alcohol—substituting with dry sherry is a great alternative, but if you’re avoiding alcohol completely, you can omit it or use a non-alcoholic cooking wine. Always ensure you use fresh ingredients to avoid any allergens!

Can I customize this recipe with vegetables?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like napa cabbage or soft tofu towards the end of the cooking process to keep them firm and nutrient-rich. Just allow about 5-10 minutes of cooking time for them to soften and infuse the broth with their flavors. Enjoy your personalized Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup!