Green Chili Chicken Soup

Green Chili Chicken Soup is the perfect comfort food for any time of the year. This dish combines tender shredded chicken with the smoky heat of green chiles and a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s a versatile recipe that you can make for quick weeknight dinners or serve as a hearty starter for a crowd. The balance of spice, creaminess, and robust chicken flavor makes it a favorite for anyone who loves bold and satisfying soups.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups green chiles (roasted, peeled, and diced or canned)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lime wedges for serving

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then stir in green chiles, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let them simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir well.

Step 6: Add Creaminess
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 7: Final Touches
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with fresh lime wedges.

Variations

• Add Beans: Stir in a can of drained black beans or white beans for extra texture.
• Spicier Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with diced tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Tortilla Topping: Serve with crispy tortilla strips for added crunch.

Cooking Notes

• Roasting fresh green chiles at home gives the soup a smoky flavor.
• Use a rotisserie chicken for a quicker version of this recipe.
• Monterey Jack cheese melts well, but you can substitute it with cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the broth.
• Pair with a fresh avocado salad for a light side dish.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of queso fresco for added richness.

Tips

• For a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the broth during simmering.
• Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
• Stir in fresh spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

30 minutes

Total Time

40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 28g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 22g

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned green chiles? Yes, canned green chiles work perfectly for convenience. Be sure to drain them before adding to the soup.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, combine all ingredients except for cream and cheese in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, then stir in cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Green Chili Chicken Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, smoky green chiles, and a creamy broth creates a soup that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it as a meal on its own or pairing it with your favorite side dishes, this soup is sure to become a regular part of your recipe rotation. Try it today and savor the bold, warming flavors of this incredible dish.