Green Chili Chicken Soup Recipe: Hearty, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

When you’re craving something warm, hearty, and full of bold flavors, green chili chicken soup is the answer. This soup combines tender, shredded chicken, smoky roasted green chilies, and a flavorful broth for a meal that hits the perfect balance of comfort and spice.This is quite easy to cook; it is incredibly protein-rich and potentially ordered as an average weeknight dinner or fancy enough for entertain guests.

The beauty of green chili chicken soup is its layers of flavor—slightly spicy, savory, and tangy, with a touch of creaminess if you choose to add it. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze. Ready to dig in? Let’s make this!

Why You’ll Love This Green Chili Chicken Soup

• Bold Flavor: The roasted green chilies give this soup a smoky, tangy kick that’s irresistible.
• Protein-Packed: Loaded with chicken and optional beans for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings, like avocado, cilantro, or tortilla strips.
• Quick and Easy: Just with few ingredients and very little preparation, this soup is made in about 30 minutes.
• Healthy: Naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and easy to make dairy-free if needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful green chili chicken soup:

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 2 cups roasted green chilies, chopped (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
• 1 can (14 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed (optional for extra heartiness)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Additions:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (for a tangy finish)
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (if you like more heat)

For Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced avocado
• Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
• Shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack or cheddar)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

How to Make Green Chili Chicken Soup

This recipe is straightforward, and the results are well worth the effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add the roasted green chilies, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for 1–2 minutes to let the spices bloom and intensify their flavors.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded chicken and beans (if using), stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Optional Creamy Finish

For a creamy version of this soup, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a thicker texture while keeping it dairy-free.

Step 5: Add Lime Juice and Adjust Seasoning

Just before serving, the fresh lime will be added to deliver an uplifting tang. Taste and season the soup to your liking, you can add salt, pepper, or lime juice as per your taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the steaming health-filled broth into bowls and, top it with your favorite fresh herbs like cilantro; maybe some avocado slices, tortilla strips, or shredded cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Green Chili Chicken Soup

1. Use Freshly Roasted Green Chilies: If possible, use freshly roasted chilies for a smoky, authentic flavor. Canned green chilies work well in a pinch, but the fresh ones take this soup to the next level.
2. Choose Your Spice Level: Adjust the heat by selecting mild or hot green chilies, or adding jalapeños for an extra kick.
3. Make It Creamy Without Dairy: Blend a portion of the soup with white beans or cauliflower for a creamy texture without cream.
4. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken, or cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs ahead of time.
5. Customize the Toppings: Get creative with toppings to make each bowl unique and fun to eat.

Why This Recipe Works

The ultimate mixture of flavors is smoky, savory, and slightly spicy, combined in green chili chicken soup. Roasted green chilis give that depth and complexity, while chicken and beans make it hearty and hearty. It is perfectly balanced by garlic and onion with a dash of lime juice for brightness. An indulgent but nourishing one-pot meal for anytime of year.

Nutritional Benefits of Green Chili Chicken Soup

This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients:

• Chicken: A lean source of protein that keeps you full and supports muscle health.
• Green Chilies: High in vitamin C and capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and immune function.
• Beans: A great source of fiber and plant-based protein (if added).
• Broth: Hydrating and rich in minerals, especially if you use bone broth.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, without toppings)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Vitamin C: 35% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

Key Takeaways

Conclusion

This Green Chili Chicken Soup is obligatory for every fan of robust, cozy tastes. It’s straightforward to cook, full of healthy ingredients, and infinitely adaptable. Whether you like it creamy or brothy, mild or spicy, this soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Serve it with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple salad for a complete meal. One thing’s for sure: you’ll be coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). So grab your green chilies and get cooking—you’re going to love every bite!

FAQs About Green Chili Chicken Soup

What is the difference between chili verde and green chili?

Chili verde and green chili are similar but differ in ingredients and preparation. Chili verde is a Mexican-style dish made with chunks of pork simmered in a sauce of tomatillos, green chilies, and spices. It’s thick, hearty, and typically served as a main dish. Green chili, on the other hand, refers to a broader category of dishes or soups made with green chilies as the primary ingredient. Green chili can include various proteins like chicken or beef and often has a thinner, soup-like consistency.

How do you thicken green chili soup?

To thicken green chili soup, you can:

• Add cornstarch or flour slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with water and stir it into the soup. Simmer until thickened.
• Mash some of the beans (if using): This adds natural thickness without extra ingredients.
• Use pureed vegetables: Blend some of the cooked soup, then stir it back in for a creamier consistency.

What is the secret ingredient in soup?

The “secret ingredient” in soup is often a splash of acid, like lemon juice or vinegar. It brightens the flavors and balances richness. A touch of soy sauce or Worcestershire can also add depth without overpowering the dish.

What’s the difference between chicken soup and condensed chicken soup?

Chicken soup is ready to eat and typically includes broth, chicken, and vegetables. Condensed chicken soup is thicker and concentrated, designed to be diluted with water or milk and often used as a base for casseroles or recipes.

Feel free to explore more delicious soup recipes, such as Marry Me Chicken Soup, Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe, or Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup for more comforting meals!