Introduction
Warm, hearty soups are a staple in many kitchens, and this chicken chili soup is no exception. With the right blend of spices, vegetables, and protein, this dish promises to be a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The addition of cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the broth, making it a delightful choice for a chilly day. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that will help you whip up this delicious soup in no time!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
15 ounces canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes (1 can)
15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
1 cup frozen corn
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes (1 brick)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Prepare your taste buds for a zesty experience as you gather the ingredients and follow the straightforward instructions to create this comforting chicken chili soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and diced jalapeño pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Spices
Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and kosher salt to the pot. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 15 ounces of canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes, 15 ounces of drained and rinsed black beans, and 1 cup of frozen corn.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
Place the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the soup, ensuring they are fully submerged. Bring the soup to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside until cool enough to handle. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Step 6: Finish Soup
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the 8 ounces of cubed cream cheese. Stir to combine, cover the pot, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Stir again until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of jalapeño or add hot sauce if you prefer a spicier soup.
Vegetarian Option
You can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead.
Cream Cheese Alternatives
For a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, stirring it in at the end of the cooking process.
Cook techniques
Sauteing
Sauteing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. In this recipe, the onion and jalapeño are sautéed to develop their flavors and soften their texture before adding other ingredients.
Simmering
Simmering is a cooking technique where food is cooked gently in liquid at a low temperature, just below boiling. The chicken in this recipe is simmered in broth with other ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook thoroughly.
Shredding
Shredding is the process of tearing cooked meat into smaller, bite-sized pieces. In this recipe, the chicken is shredded after cooking, making it easier to eat and allowing it to absorb the flavors of the soup.
Incorporating
Incorporating involves mixing ingredients into a dish so that they become evenly distributed. Here, the cream cheese is incorporated into the soup at the end to create a creamy texture.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the art of adding decorative touches to a dish before serving. Optional toppings such as tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges enhance the visual appeal and add complementary flavors to the soup.
FAQ
Can I use other types of beans instead of black beans?
Yes, you can substitute black beans with other beans such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with additional beans, tofu, or vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for a dairy-free option?
For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream, cashew cream, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken tortilla soup combines a delightful blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to please. The addition of cream cheese provides a rich texture, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Chicken Quesadillas
Use the shredded chicken from the soup to make delicious quesadillas with cheese and any leftover peppers.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Combine the soup ingredients into halved bell peppers and bake until tender for a nutritious meal.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Transform the shredded chicken into spicy tacos by adding taco seasoning and serving with fresh toppings like salsa and avocado.
Mexican Rice Bowl
Layer cooked rice with the soup’s ingredients, top with cheese, and bake for a cheesy rice casserole.
Chili Nachos
Pour the soup over tortilla chips, top with cheese, and bake until melted for delicious nachos.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with the creamy soup mixture for a quick and satisfying meal.
Chicken and Corn Salad
Mix the shredded chicken with corn, beans, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Soup for Meal Prep
Make a large batch of soup to portion out for easy lunches throughout the week.
