Easy & Comforting Green Chile Chicken Soup Recipe

A comforting bowl of homemade green chile chicken soup with avocado and cilantro garnish.

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul, and this Green Chile Chicken Soup is an absolute champion in that department. Imagine tender shredded chicken, vibrant green chiles, and a rich, savory broth coming together in a symphony of flavor. It's hearty, satisfying, and boasts that irresistible Southwestern kick that keeps you coming back for more.

Whether you're battling a chilly evening, craving something wholesome, or simply want a meal that's bursting with character, this recipe delivers. It's surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet it feels special enough for a cozy weekend dinner.

Why You'll Love This Green Chile Chicken Soup

  • Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cook time make it ideal for any day of the week.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted green chiles, aromatic vegetables, and savory chicken creates a truly memorable taste.
  • Comfort Food: Warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying – it's a hug in a bowl!
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable to your spice preference and what you have on hand.

Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

The magic of this soup lies in a few star ingredients:

  • Green Chiles: Fresh or canned, these are the heart of the dish. Hatch green chiles offer the best flavor if you can find them.
  • Chicken: Cooked chicken, shredded or diced. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!
  • Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and sometimes celery or carrots lay the flavor foundation.
  • Broth: Good quality chicken broth is essential for a rich base.
  • Spices: Cumin, oregano, and a touch of chili powder enhance the Southwestern profile.

Tips for the Best Green Chile Chicken Soup

Roast Your Own Chiles (If Using Fresh)

If you're using fresh green chiles, roasting them beforehand adds incredible depth and makes them easier to peel. Simply char them over an open flame, under a broiler, or on a grill until the skin is blistered and blackened. Place them in a bowl and cover for 10-15 minutes to steam, then peel and chop.

Shredding Chicken Made Easy

For perfectly shredded chicken, place cooked chicken breasts or thighs in a large bowl and use two forks to pull the meat apart. Alternatively, if you have a stand mixer, you can use the paddle attachment on low speed for a few seconds – it's a game-changer! A quality chef's knife also makes dicing cooked chicken a breeze for those who prefer diced pieces.

Adjust Spice to Your Liking

Green chiles vary in heat. Taste as you go! If you prefer it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or include some diced jalapeños. For a milder soup, opt for mild green chiles and omit any additional heat.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal in itself, but it's even better with a few delicious accompaniments:

  • Freshly baked cornbread
  • Warm tortillas or tortilla chips
  • A simple side salad
  • Garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream

Variations to Try

  • Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a block of cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding extra beans, corn, and zucchini for a hearty meatless meal.
  • Beans & Corn: For extra bulk and flavor, add a can of drained black beans or pinto beans, and a cup of frozen corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Get ready to savor every spoonful of this incredible Green Chile Chicken Soup. It's destined to become a new family favorite!

FAQs

What kind of green chiles are best for this soup?

Roasted Hatch green chiles are ideal for their smoky flavor. If unavailable, canned mild green chiles work well, or you can roast poblanos for a similar effect.

Can I make this green chile chicken soup spicier?

Absolutely! To add more heat, include some diced jalapeu00f1os or serranos with the other vegetables, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use hot green chiles.

How long can I store leftover green chile chicken soup?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

What are some good garnishes for green chile chicken soup?

Popular garnishes include fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack), or crispy tortilla strips.

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A comforting bowl of homemade green chile chicken soup with avocado and cilantro garnish.

Hearty Green Chile Chicken Soup


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  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A soul-warming, easy-to-make soup featuring tender chicken and the rich, smoky flavor of green chiles.


Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (or 1 cup roasted, peeled, and diced fresh green chiles)
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
1 cup frozen corn (optional)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional garnishes: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, tortilla strips


Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add minced garlic and diced green chiles to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the shredded chicken, pinto beans (if using), frozen corn (if using), cumin, and oregano.
Step 4: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Ladle into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, sour cream, cheese, or tortilla strips, if desired.

Notes

For a creamier soup, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or 2 oz cream cheese at the end until melted. Adjust the amount of green chiles based on your preferred spice level.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Soup
  • Method: Stovetop, Simmering
  • Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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