Looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that's also packed with health benefits? Meet your new favorite recipe—Green Chili Chicken Soup. This vibrant soup combines tender chicken, zesty green chilies, and nutritious vegetables for a meal that’s as comforting as it is energizing.

green chili chicken soup

Ingredients List

Before you start cooking, gather all these ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process:

Essential Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup water
  • 4-5 fresh green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy variation
  • Juice of 1 lime

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious, warming bowl of Green Chili Chicken Soup:

1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
  3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
  2. Sauté the diced onions until translucent (about 3 minutes).
  3. Add the minced garlic and green chilies, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Build the Base

  1. Return the chicken to the pot.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water.
  3. Stir in the cumin and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer the Soup

  1. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
  2. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

5. Shred the Chicken

  1. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
  2. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

6. Add Final Ingredients

  1. Stir in the corn, black beans, and any optional add-ins like bell peppers or zucchini.
  2. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
  3. If desired, add the heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
  4. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

  • Adjust the Heat: If you love spicy food, add a few seeds from the green chilies or include a jalapeño.
  • Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies like carrots or spinach to boost nutrition.
  • Creamy Variation: For a richer soup, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Green Chili Chicken Soup with these delicious sides:

  • Warm tortillas or tortilla chips
  • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
  • A side of avocado slices or guacamole
  • Crusty bread for dipping

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
  • Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Green Chili Chicken Soup. It's a healthy, flavorful option that's perfect for any meal. Ready to elevate your home cooking? Try this recipe today and share your delicious creations with us! Happy cooking!

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