Chicken Mulligatawny Soup with Rice is a fragrant and hearty dish that combines the warmth of Indian spices with the comfort of a creamy, nourishing soup. Traditionally a British-Indian fusion dish, it features tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, all enveloped in a spiced broth.

The soup’s flavor comes from a blend of curry powder, ginger, and garlic, balanced with a touch of coconut milk for creaminess. This dish is ideal for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you want a bowl of comforting yet exotic flavors.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both comforting and exciting. The spices awaken the senses, while the rice and chicken provide substance, making it a complete meal in one bowl. The balance between aromatic spices, tender chicken, and creamy coconut milk creates a harmonious flavor profile.

It’s warm, satisfying, and deeply flavorful, yet easy enough to make on a weeknight. Each spoonful feels like a comforting hug with an exotic twist.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it introduces you to the classic British-Indian fusion soup with a balance of traditional spices and accessible ingredients. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted for spiciness or creaminess.

The addition of rice makes it more filling, transforming a simple soup into a hearty meal. It’s perfect for anyone who loves layered flavors, warming spices, and a soup that doubles as a main course.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time 15 minutes
Cooking Time 35–40 minutes
Total Time 50–55 minutes
Servings 4–6 servings
Calories Approximately 320–350 calories per serving
Course Soup / Main Course
Cuisine Indian / British-Indian Fusion

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup uncooked basmati rice or jasmine rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and onions are translucent.

2. Cook Vegetables and Spices

1. Add carrots and celery; cook for another 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.

3. Add Chicken and Broth

1. Add chicken pieces to the pot and stir to coat with spices.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to simmer.

4. Add Rice and Simmer

1. Add uncooked rice to the soup. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

5. Finish with Coconut Milk and Lemon

1. Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Add lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

6. Serve

1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop vegetables, mince garlic, grate ginger, and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Cook onions, garlic, and ginger until soft and fragrant.
3. Cook Vegetables and Spices: Add carrots, celery, and spices, cooking until aromatic.
4. Add Chicken and Broth: Incorporate chicken and pour in broth. Simmer until chicken is nearly cooked.
5. Add Rice: Stir in uncooked rice and continue simmering until rice is tender.
6. Finish Soup: Stir in coconut milk, adjust seasoning, and add lemon juice.
7. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve in bowls with extra lemon wedges on the side.
• Pair with warm naan bread or crusty baguette.
• Optionally, add a drizzle of yogurt or coconut cream for extra richness.

Recipe Tips

• Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat.
• Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
• For a smoother soup, blend half of the soup before adding coconut milk.
• Use leftover cooked rice if desired, but add it near the end to prevent overcooking.

Variations

Spicy Mulligatawny

Increase cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red chili flakes for extra heat.

Vegetarian Version

Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Creamy Coconut

Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier soup.

Exotic Twist

Add diced apples or raisins for a subtle sweet contrast to the spices.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigeration

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Freezing

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• If using uncooked rice, it’s better to add rice fresh when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon for stirring

FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, add pre-cooked chicken in the last 5 minutes of simmering to heat through.

Can I make this soup spicier?
Yes, increase cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chilies.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if using plain rice.

Can I substitute rice with quinoa?
Yes, quinoa can be used; adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

Can I use canned coconut milk?
Yes, both canned and carton coconut milk work, but canned yields a richer flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup with Rice is a comforting, aromatic, and nourishing dish that brings together the best of Indian-inspired flavors and hearty, satisfying ingredients. It’s perfect for family meals, weeknight dinners, or whenever you want a warm bowl of flavorful soup. With tender chicken, aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and perfectly cooked rice, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl and sure to become a favorite in your home.