When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of Green Chili Chicken Soup. This Southwestern-inspired dish is packed with bold flavors, tender shredded chicken, and the perfect touch of heat from green chilies. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that’s great for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you need a cozy, nourishing meal.
Made with simple pantry staples, this soup is both delicious and highly customizable—whether you prefer it creamy, dairy-free, or loaded with extra toppings. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Packed with flavor – Smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy.
✅ Protein-rich & nourishing – A healthy and filling option.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes using just one pot.
✅ Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels, make it creamy, or keep it dairy-free.
Total Time Required
⏳ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏳ Cook Time: 20 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 can white beans (for a heartier soup)
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese (for extra creaminess)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for more heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Base
- Stir in the green chilies, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add shredded chicken, and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- If using beans or corn, stir them in now.
Step 4: Make It Creamy (Optional)
- For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream and cheese, letting it melt into the soup.
- Simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Add Final Touches & Serve
- Stir in lime juice for brightness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with warm tortillas, tortilla chips, or cornbread.
- Garnish with avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
- Add a squeeze of extra lime juice for a zesty kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values based on ingredients used)
- Calories: ~250-300 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbs: ~10-15g
- Fats: ~10g
Health Benefits
🍗 High in Protein: Chicken provides essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair.
🌶 Boosts Metabolism: Green chilies contain capsaicin, which can help increase metabolism and fat burning.
🧄 Supports Immunity: Garlic and onions are rich in antioxidants and compounds that support a healthy immune system.
🍋 Rich in Vitamin C: Lime juice adds a burst of vitamin C, which is great for skin health and immune function.
🥣 Gut-Friendly Ingredients: Bone broth (or chicken broth) helps with digestion and supports gut health.
🫛 Fiber-Rich Option: Adding beans or corn increases fiber intake, aiding in digestion and keeping you full longer.
Tips & Variations
💡 Make it Low-Carb: Skip the beans and corn.
💡 Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or chipotle powder.
💡 Make it Dairy-Free: Swap cream for coconut milk or omit it.
💡 Want More Protein? Add extra chicken or white beans.
FAQs
1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients (except cream and lime juice) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cream and lime juice at the end.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
4. Can I freeze Green Chili Chicken Soup?
Yes! Freeze it without the cream for up to 3 months. Add cream when reheating for best texture.
5. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?
Blend a portion of the soup or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).
6. How can I adjust the spice level?
- Milder: Use mild green chilies and skip the red pepper flakes.
- Spicier: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or extra green chilies.
7. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with grilled cheese, a side salad, or crispy tortilla chips.
Final Thoughts
This Green Chili Chicken Soup is the perfect balance of flavor, warmth, and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Try it out and let me know in the comments—how do you like your Green Chili Chicken Soup? 🍲👇
Green Chili Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie works great
- 1 can 4 oz green chilies, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream optional, for a creamy version
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 can white beans for a heartier soup
- 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese for extra creaminess
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes for more heat
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Base
- Stir in the green chilies, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add shredded chicken, and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- If using beans or corn, stir them in now.
Step 4: Make It Creamy (Optional)
- For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream and cheese, letting it melt into the soup.
- Simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Add Final Touches & Serve
- Stir in lime juice for brightness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
