30-Minutes Chicken Chili Soup Recipe – Bold Flavors

by Julia
No Comments
August 21, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure policy.

Ignite your palate with our Chicken Chili Soup, a fiery fusion of tender chicken, bold spices, and hearty beans that converge in a symphony of flavors. This zesty concoction offers a comforting warmth, while the vibrant chili spices and cool, creamy toppings provide a dynamic contrast. Each spoonful promises a burst of robust taste and a kick of heat, ensuring a culinary adventure in every bite. Dive into this bowl of zesty bliss and let the bold flavors transport you to a world of delicious excitement!

Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of our Chicken Chili Soup Recipe – a delightful marriage of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. As winter’s chill settles, this comforting bowl of goodness is the perfect companion to warm your soul.

Our Chicken Chili Soup recipe masterfully combines tender chunks of succulent chicken with vibrant vegetables simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic broth.

This culinary masterpiece is thoughtfully crafted to invigorate your senses and ignite a symphony of flavors on your palate.

Our fuss-free recipe offers a quick and easy solution for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends prepared with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, this delightful creation promises to satisfy your cravings while providing a nourishing meal for your loved ones.

What Is Chicken Chili Soup Recipe?

Chicken chili soup is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender chicken pieces with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices in a savory broth. It’s a comforting and nourishing meal, perfect for warming up during colder days.

Can You Vary Chicken Chili Soup Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto Chicken Chili Soup Replace beans with low-carb vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or bell peppers. Use keto-friendly broth and opt for higher-fat cuts of chicken-like thighs. Ensure your spices and toppings are also keto-compliant.
Paleo Chicken Chili Soup Stick to natural ingredients and avoid beans and dairy. Use sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness and texture. Choose paleo-approved broth and seasonings.
Gluten-Free Chicken Chili Soup Double-check that all ingredients, including spices and broth, are gluten-free. Substitute regular flour with gluten-free or alternative thickeners like arrowroot or tapioca starch.
Whole30 Chicken Chili Soup Focus on using whole and unprocessed ingredients. Omit beans and use compliant broth, fresh vegetables, and herbs. Avoid added sugars or sweeteners.
Vegetarian Chicken Chili Soup Swap chicken with plant-based protein sources like tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Use vegetable broth and a variety of beans for added protein. Load up on colorful vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Vegan Chicken Chili Soup Eliminate animal products and use plant-based chicken alternatives or more beans and vegetables. Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, and omit any dairy-based toppings.

Recipe Directions

Spray a big saucepan with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the chicken is browned and the peppers achieve a tender texture.
In the pot, combine the corn, tomatoes, water, beans, and tomato sauce to make a colorful combination.
Elevate the flavors with a blend of garlic powder, chili powder, parsley, cayenne, and cumin.
Adjust the heat to a gentle simmer, ensuring the pot is covered, allowing the medley to harmonize for a tantalizing 30 minutes of simmering delight.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Try a White Chicken Chili version using white beans and mild green chilies for a milder, creamier taste.
Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Opt for a low-carb version using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or omitting it altogether.

Add-Ons

Enhance the flavors with a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist.
Add diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a hint of natural sweetness and added texture.
Include a handful of fresh spinach or kale to boost greens and nutrients.

Toppings

Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for a gooey, savory finish.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, green onions, or diced avocado for added freshness and color.
Drizzle a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the spiciness and add creaminess.

Can I Make Chicken Chili Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker Method

Follow the initial steps of the recipe by browning the chicken, bell peppers, and onion in a skillet on the stovetop.
Transfer the browned chicken and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
Add the corn, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, chili powder, parsley, garlic powder, cayenne, and cumin to the slow cooker.
Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Instant Pot Method

Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and brown the chicken, bell peppers, and onion using the sauté feature.
Add the corn, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, chili powder, parsley, garlic powder, cayenne, and cumin to the Instant Pot.
Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to “sealing,” and select the “soup” function.
Adjust the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes on high pressure.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for a few minutes, then do a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

Pros

Convenience: Store-bought broth is readily available, saving you time and effort.
Consistency: It offers a consistent flavor profile, making it easy to predict the outcome of your soup.

Cons

Sodium Content: Some store-bought broths may have high sodium levels, which can affect the overall saltiness of the soup.
Additives: Check the label for any additives or preservatives that might be present in commercial broths.

Homemade Broth

Pros

Flavor Control: Making your broth allows you to adjust and tailor the flavors to your tastes.
Healthier Option: Homemade broth can be lower in sodium and free from additives.

Cons

Time-Consuming: Preparing homemade broth requires more time and planning, as it involves simmering bones and vegetables to extract flavors.

How To Serve ?

Bowls or Bread Bowls: Ladle the steaming hot soup into individual bowls or hollowed-out bread bowls for a cozy and inviting presentation.
Garnish Galore: Sprinkle the soup with toppings like shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Squeeze of Lime: Offer lime wedges on the side, allowing diners to squeeze fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
Tortilla Chips: Serve a basket of chips alongside the soup for a delightful crunchy accompaniment.
Cornbread or Bread Rolls: Pair the chicken chili soup with cornbread or crusty bread rolls to soak up the flavorful broth.
Side Salad: Accompany the soup with a light side salad of mixed greens or a refreshing cucumber-tomato salad for added freshness.

Perfect Side Dishes

Cornbread: Classic cornbread is a natural pairing with chicken chili soup, providing a slightly sweet and crumbly contrast to the spicy and savory flavors of the soup.
Bread Rolls: Serve warm, crusty bread rolls on the side, perfect for dipping into the hearty broth.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a fun and flavorful way to scoop up the soup and add texture.
Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad with diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a light lime dressing complements the soup’s flavors while adding a creamy and fresh element.
Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and vinegar-based dressing provides a refreshing balance to the soup’s spiciness.
Mexican Rice: Serve fluffy Mexican rice with cilantro and lime to round out the meal and create a hearty and satisfying combination.

Storage And Make Ahead

Cook Chicken: Sauté chicken until fully cooked, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Combine Ingredients: Mix the chicken with beans, tomatoes, corn, chili spices, and broth in a large pot. Simmer until the flavors meld together.
Cool Down: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to storage containers.
Refrigerate: Store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze Option: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat Gently: Warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little broth or water if the soup is too thick.
Make Ahead: This soup’s flavor deepens with time, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Prepare a day or two in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro to enhance its flavors and texture right before serving.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Chili Mac: Mix the soup with cooked macaroni for a comforting chili mac and cheese.
Soup Enchiladas: Use the soup as a flavorful filling for enchiladas, topped with cheese and baked.
Stuffed Peppers: Stuff bell peppers with the leftover soup and bake until tender.
Chili Tacos: Spoon the soup into taco shells and top with your favorite taco toppings.
Soup Quesadillas: Make cheesy quesadillas with the soup as a filling.
Chili Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Serve the soup over baked potatoes and top with cheese and sour cream.
Chili-Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill hollowed-out bell peppers with the soup and bake until tender.
Soup Burritos: Roll the soup in tortillas with rice and beans for hearty burritos.
Soup Shepherd’s Pie: Top the soup with mashed potatoes and bake for a comforting shepherd’s pie.
Chili Bowl: Enjoy the soup with freshly baked bread or cornbread on the side.

TIPS

Use bone-in chicken thighs for added flavor, then shred the meat before serving.
Add a can of diced green chilies for a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
To thicken the soup, blend a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot.
For a smoky twist, stir in a tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce.
Enhance the chili flavor with a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a refreshing contrast.
For a heartier texture, add cooked quinoa or barley.
Use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor.