Description

Welcome to the warm and comforting world of Green Chili Chicken Soup, a delightful dish that captures the spirit of Southwest cuisine! This vibrant and hearty soup is not only a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of flavors that will undoubtedly awaken your taste buds. The tantalizing kick from the green chilies, combined with the rich and savory notes from the chicken broth, creates a perfect balance that warms you from the inside out.

Originating from the heart of the Southwestern United States, this recipe embodies a rich culinary tradition that celebrates bold flavors and refreshing ingredients. It's perfect for chilly evenings, cozy gatherings with friends and family, or whenever you need a nourishing dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Plus, it's a versatile dish that can easily suit both your mood and dietary preferences.

With straightforward preparation steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll find this Green Chili Chicken Soup to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. As you stir the pot, feel the cozy scents envelop your kitchen and imagine the smiles of friends and family as they gather around the table, eagerly awaiting a warm serving of this delectable soup. Substitutions and variations allow for creativity, making this recipe not only inviting but also adaptable to your personal tastes.

So roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this flavorful Green Chili Chicken Soup!

Ingredients

• For the soup base:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans (4 oz each) diced green chilies
• 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• For the heartiness:
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup frozen or fresh corn
• For the creamy finish:
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• For garnishing:
• 1 avocado, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Substitutions:
• Feel free to substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider low-sodium broth and canned goods. For a spicier kick, add more green chilies or consider including diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce! If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative that adds a creamy texture with added protein.

Preparation Method

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up; you’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers gently across the bottom of the pan. It’s essential to use a pot that can accommodate all the ingredients, so opt for a larger pot to avoid spills.

Next, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté the onion for about three to four minutes or until it becomes translucent and tender. This initial step is foundational and will lay a flavor-packed base for your soup. Once the onion is softened, it’s time to bring in the garlic. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. You want to be careful here; garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily, so keep a close eye on it. The moment the garlic starts to release its fragrant aroma, it’s ready for the next phase.

Once your kitchen is filled with mouthwatering scents, pour in the chicken broth along with the diced green chilies and fire-roasted diced tomatoes. The combination of these ingredients will enhance the soup's depth of flavor. Then, add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. These spices not only highlight the Southwestern roots of the dish but elevate it to a whole new level. Give everything a gentle stir until well combined, allowing all the ingredients to mingle.

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil; feel free to watch the bubbles dance in the pot! This is where the magic begins. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the soup to cook for about 15 minutes. At this point, the various flavors have a chance to meld beautifully together, creating a delightful taste.

After the initial simmering, add the shredded cooked chicken and corn to the pot. It’s best to use cooked chicken, which can be shredded rotisserie chicken or leftovers from a previous meal, to save time. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until everything is heated through. As the chicken warms up, it will absorb the flavors of the broth, making every spoonful a delicious experience.

To finish off your soup, stir in the sour cream and chopped cilantro. The sour cream will not only add creaminess but will also balance the heat from the chilies, creating a well-rounded dish. Taste your creation and season generously with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjusting the seasoning at this stage is crucial for ensuring the best flavor profile in your soup.

When everything is ready, ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with diced avocado—this adds a creamy texture, a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the dish, and is visually appealing. For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle additional cilantro on top and serve with wedges of lime. The addition of lime juice right before taking a bite brings a fresh brightness that will elevate the entire dish.

Tips and Conclusion

To vivify your meal, consider serving this Green Chili Chicken Soup with warm tortilla chips or a side of cornbread, which makes for an excellent accompaniment. The crunch of the chips or the comforting texture of cornbread adds to the overall experience, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy. For those less inclined toward spice, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt can be a perfect cooling agent.

This soup is also highly versatile when it comes to storage. If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s often said that soups taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen and develop over time. They can last for about three to four days. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months; simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. For ideal reheating, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
In just over half an hour, you've created a delightful pot of Green Chili Chicken Soup that brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to your table. Whether you're enjoying a bowl solo on a quiet evening, serving it to loved ones on a chilly night, or bringing it to a friend’s gathering, this soup radiates love and nourishment.

As you take your first spoonful, relish the exciting blend of flavors, the warmth that wraps around you, and the satisfaction of preparing a dish from the heart. If you're looking for more delicious and inspiring recipes, consider exploring our collection of soups, stews, and comfort meals on our site. You might find that perfect addition to your meal plans or a new favorite dish to share with family and friends.

Don’t forget to share this Green Chili Chicken Soup recipe with others who might appreciate a delightful culinary adventure! Happy cooking!