This Spicy Chicken Soup is the perfect combination of heat, heartiness, and comfort. Loaded with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and bold spices, it offers a satisfying, spicy kick that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you're in need of a cozy dinner or something to spice up your meal routine, this soup is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Hearty & Comforting: Ideal for chilly nights or when you need a bit of comfort food.
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Packed with Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich, savory broth.
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Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to suit your taste, whether it's mild or fiery.
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Nutritious & Filling: A wholesome mix of lean protein, veggies, and spices to nourish your body.
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Easy to Make: A one-pot dish that’s simple to prepare and easy to clean up.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Chicken (boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs)
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Onion & garlic
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Carrots & bell peppers
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Diced tomatoes
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Chicken broth
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Chili powder & cumin
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Jalapeños or chili flakes
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Lime juice
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Fresh cilantro
Directions
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeños, and cook until fragrant.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in the carrots and bell peppers, and let them soften.
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Brown the Chicken: Push the vegetables to the side and add the chicken, searing lightly to lock in flavor.
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Spice It Up: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and any extra spices. Stir to coat.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the chicken is tender.
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Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
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Finishing Touches: Stir in lime juice and cilantro, adjusting seasoning to taste.
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Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and serve hot, with your favorite toppings.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Servings: 6
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
The recipe is naturally dairy-free, but avoid adding dairy-based toppings like cheese or sour cream.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring every minute.
Can I add beans or corn?
Yes, black beans or corn are great additions to the soup for more texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add extra chili flakes, chopped habaneros, or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Can I make it vegetarian?
You can swap chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just ensure the chicken is thawed before cooking or extend the cooking time.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores and reheats well, perfect for meal prepping.
What are other great toppings for this soup?
Toppings like tortilla chips, sour cream, shredded cheese, or hot sauce work wonderfully.
Conclusion
This Spicy Chicken Soup is a deliciously bold and comforting dish, full of flavor and customizable to your heat preference. Whether you're in the mood for a spicy kick or just a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Make it once, and it'll be on repeat in your kitchen!
