Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe

This spicy chicken soup recipe is a heartwarming dish perfect for cold days or when you're in need of a little comfort food. Packed with flavorful chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a broth that's beautifully spiced, this soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.

Photos of Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this spicy chicken soup are common pantry staples. However, diced tomatoes with green chile peppers may not be a regular in your kitchen. This ingredient is essential as it gives the soup its distinct spicy kick. You can find it canned in most supermarkets, usually in the international or canned goods aisle.

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Soup

Olive oil: This is used for sautéing the vegetables, it adds a slight richness to the soup.

Onion: Adds a level of sweetness and depth of flavor.

Green bell pepper: Gives the soup a little crunch and fresh taste.

Garlic cloves: Essential for adding that aromatic and warm flavor.

Chicken broth: Serves as the base of the soup, providing moisture and flavor.

Chicken breast: The main protein of the soup that makes it hearty and filling.

Diced tomatoes with green chile peppers: Gives the soup its distinctive spicy kick and slightly tangy flavor.

One reader, Idelle Bock says:

This spicy chicken soup recipe is a game-changer! The blend of flavors is simply divine, and the kick of heat is just perfect. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's become a staple in my kitchen. Highly recommend giving it a try!

Idelle Bock

Techniques Required for Making Spicy Chicken Soup

How to sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the onion, green pepper, and garlic, and cook until tender.

How to simmer the soup: After adding the chicken broth, chicken pieces, and diced tomatoes with chilies, cover the saucepan and let the soup simmer for at least 10 minutes.

How to serve the soup: Ladle the spicy chicken soup into bowls and serve warm.

How To Make Spicy Chicken Soup

Easy and quick, this chicken soup is packed with a kick! Chicken breast is simmered in a broth made spicy with canned tomatoes and green chile peppers.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
1cuponion,chopped
1cupgreen bell pepper,diced
2garlic cloves,pressed
14½ozchicken broth,(2 cans)
1cupchicken breast,cooked, chopped
10ozdiced tomatoes with green chile peppers,(1 can)

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion, green pepper and garlic until tender.
Stir in the chicken broth, chicken pieces, and the diced tomatoes and chilies. Simmer covered for at least 10 minutes.
Serve warm and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 100.52kcal
Fat: 5.06g
Saturated Fat: 1.18g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.63g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.89g
Carbohydrates: 6.02g
Fiber: 1.35g
Sugar: 3.02g
Protein: 7.89g
Cholesterol: 19.62mg
Sodium: 133.55mg
Calcium: 24.18mg
Potassium: 248.61mg
Iron: 0.65mg
Vitamin A: 17.73µg
Vitamin C: 21.26mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Spicy Chicken Soup

When sautéing the onion, green pepper, and garlic, make sure to stir them frequently. This will ensure they cook evenly and prevent them from burning. Additionally, when adding the chicken broth, chicken pieces, and diced tomatoes and chilies, try to distribute them evenly in the saucepan. This will allow all the ingredients to blend together nicely, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Spicy Soup

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Utilize pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to cut down on cooking time.

One-pot wonder: Opt for a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.

Invest in kitchen tools: Equip your kitchen with time-saving tools like a food processor, immersion blender, or pressure cooker to expedite meal preparation.

Organize ingredients: Arrange all ingredients and utensils in an orderly manner before starting to cook for a more efficient process.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle sweetness to the soup.
green bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers have a mild heat and earthy flavor, adding a unique depth to the soup.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the soup.
chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast can be used as a lean alternative to chicken breast, offering a similar texture and flavor in the soup.
diced tomatoes with green chile peppers - Substitute with diced tomatoes with jalapeños: Diced tomatoes with jalapeños can add a spicy kick similar to green chile peppers, enhancing the heat of the soup.

Presenting Your Spicy Chicken Soup

Elevate the plating: Arrange the spicy chicken soup in a shallow, wide bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. The presentation should be visually appealing and inviting.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top of the soup to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate a drizzle of sour cream: Create an elegant swirl of sour cream on the surface of the soup to add a touch of creaminess and a beautiful visual contrast.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the spicy chicken soup with slices of warm, crusty bread or a freshly baked baguette to provide a delightful complement to the flavors of the dish.
Use high-quality serving ware: Present the soup in elegant, porcelain bowls or artisanal pottery to enhance the dining experience and convey a sense of sophistication.
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika: Dust a pinch of smoked paprika over the soup just before serving to impart a subtle smoky aroma and a hint of complexity to the dish.
Include a side of pickled jalapeños: Offer a small side dish of tangy pickled jalapeños to provide a zesty, spicy kick that guests can add to their soup according to their preference.
Create a beautiful contrast: Consider serving the spicy chicken soup alongside a vibrant, fresh salad or a colorful vegetable medley to create a visually stunning and well-balanced presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Spicy Chicken Soup

Large saucepan: A large, deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking soups, stews, and sauces.
Sauté pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with relatively tall sides, used for sautéing, searing, and frying foods.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife with a broad blade that tapers to a point, used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Cutting board: A durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
Wooden spoon: A spoon made from wood, often used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used to measure the volume of liquid or dry ingredients.
Can opener: A tool used to open metal cans.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups and stews.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms that are joined at one end, used for picking up and manipulating food.
Knife: A tool with a sharp blade, used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
Stove: A cooking appliance with a flat top and one or more gas or electric burners for cooking food.
Can opener: A tool used to open metal cans.
Measuring spoons: A set of spoons used to measure an amount of an ingredient, either liquid or dry.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for boiling or heating liquids and preparing sauces.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
Soup ladle: A large, deep spoon with a long handle, used for serving soup.

Storing and Freezing Your Spicy Chicken Soup

Allow the spicy chicken soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure the best quality.
Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date of preparation.
To freeze the soup, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
When freezing, consider portioning the soup into individual serving sizes for easier thawing and reheating later.
The frozen spicy chicken soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
To reheat the refrigerated soup, transfer it to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You may need to add a little water or chicken broth to adjust the consistency if the soup has thickened during storage.
For frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen soup directly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even thawing and heating. Adjust the consistency with water or broth if needed.
When reheating, make sure the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to consume.
Avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the soup, as this can affect its texture and quality. It's best to freeze the soup in portions that you can consume within a single serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Chicken Soup

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover spicy chicken soup to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is evenly reheated without scorching or losing its flavor.
Microwave method: pour the leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large batch of leftover spicy chicken soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker, cover it, and heat on low for 1-2 hours or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal for keeping the soup warm for an extended period, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to reheat the spicy chicken soup until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of chicken broth or water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Interesting Fact About Spicy Chicken Soup

Spicy chicken soup is a popular comfort food in many cultures. It is believed that spicy foods can help clear sinuses and provide relief from congestion, making it a great choice when feeling under the weather. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and spicy chilies not only creates a flavorful dish but also provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients. Additionally, the capsaicin found in chilies can help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. So, next time you're feeling a bit under the weather, consider whipping up a batch of spicy chicken soup to help clear your sinuses and warm your soul.

Is Making Spicy Chicken Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

This spicy chicken soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breast, onion, and green bell pepper, are affordable and readily available. The use of simple and economical ingredients makes it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15. The flavorful and satisfying nature of this soup makes it a great choice for a family meal. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste.

Is This Spicy Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spicy chicken soup recipe is relatively healthy, as it contains several nutritious ingredients:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues
Onion, green bell pepper, and garlic provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Diced tomatoes with green chile peppers offer vitamin C, vitamin A, and capsaicin, which has potential health benefits

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

The sodium content may be high due to the chicken broth and canned tomatoes
The recipe lacks additional vegetables, which could provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals
There are no complex carbohydrates or healthy fats included

To enhance the nutritional value of this spicy chicken soup, consider the following suggestions:

Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content
Add more vegetables, such as:
- Carrots for beta-carotene and fiber
- Celery for vitamins K and C, and antioxidants
- Spinach or kale for iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K
Include a source of complex carbohydrates, like:
- Whole grain pasta or rice to provide fiber and B vitamins
- Beans or lentils for additional protein, fiber, and minerals
Incorporate healthy fats by:
- Adding a sliced avocado as a topping for heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
- Drizzling extra-virgin olive oil before serving for anti-inflammatory properties

Editor's Opinion on This Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe

This spicy chicken soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of sautéed onions, green peppers, and garlic creates a savory base, while the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with green chilies add depth and heat. The tender chicken breast adds a satisfying protein element. Overall, this soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Enhance Your Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the spicy chicken soup.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy, charred corn on the cob seasoned with a spicy chili-lime butter, a delicious accompaniment to the flavorful soup.

Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice with a zesty kick of cilantro and lime, a refreshing side dish to balance the heat of the spicy chicken soup.

Similar Recipes to Spicy Chicken Soup

Spicy Chicken Tacos: Marinate the chicken with a blend of spices and grill until tender. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Sauté onions and garlic, then add tomatoes and basil. Simmer until flavors meld, then blend until smooth. Serve with a dollop of cream.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Grill chicken and top with a refreshing salsa made with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Toss roasted vegetables with cooked quinoa, fresh herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette for a nutritious and flavorful salad option.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Spicy Chicken Soup

Appetizers:

Spicy Chicken Wings: These fiery wings are the perfect way to kick off any meal. The combination of heat and flavor will leave your taste buds tingling and wanting more.

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These delectable stuffed mushrooms are bursting with savory flavors and are sure to impress your guests. The rich and earthy taste will leave everyone wanting seconds.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe:

This spicy chicken soup recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish that will surely satisfy your cravings. The combination of chicken broth, chicken breast, and diced tomatoes with green chile peppers creates a rich and aromatic base. The addition of onion, green bell pepper, and garlic cloves infuses the soup with a delightful depth of flavor. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the simplicity of the cooking process to deliver a delicious and hearty soup that will warm your soul.

Share your thoughts on the Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this flavorful dish!

FAQ:

What is the level of spiciness in this soup?

The level of spiciness in this soup is moderate. The diced tomatoes with green chile peppers add a nice kick without being overwhelming.

Can I use a different type of pepper instead of green bell pepper?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pepper if you prefer. Red bell peppers or even poblano peppers would work well in this recipe.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth is a great way to make this soup vegetarian while still maintaining its delicious flavor.

How can I make this soup even spicier?

If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup to increase the heat level to your liking.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe. Simply shred or chop the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.