Name: Chicken Chili Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie works great); 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); Juice of 1 lime; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; Sliced avocado; Sour cream or Greek yogurt; Tortilla chips or strips

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If you’ve ever craved a cozy bowl that delivers both heartiness and fresh, zesty flavor, this Chicken Chili Soup is about to become your new go-to dinner. The savory blend of tender chicken, creamy beans, sweet corn, and bold Tex-Mex spices creates the perfect balance of comfort and brightness. It’s a lighter take on chili — brothy, satisfying, and wonderful any time of year. Whether you pile it high with avocado and cheese or dunk in oodles of crunchy tortilla chips, Chicken Chili Soup is the ultimate fix for both weeknight dinners and friendly gatherings.

Chicken Chili Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This chicken chili soup comes together with a handful of simple ingredients, each one adding its own special touch. Nothing fancy here—just pantry staples and a couple of fresh elements that create a vibrant, comforting soup. Let’s break down why each component matters!

Olive Oil: Gives a silky base for sautéing vegetables and unlocking their flavor.
Onion: Adds sweet undertones and a savory depth that forms the backbone of the soup.
Red Bell Pepper: Brightens the broth with color and a gentle sweetness.
Garlic: Pops in aromatic flavor that makes each spoonful irresistible.
Ground Cumin: Brings a warm, earthy Tex-Mex vibe that defines the soup’s personality.
Chili Powder: Provides a gentle heat while hinting at classic chili flavors.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a bit of smokiness, elevating every bite.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall flavor—taste and adjust as you go!
Chicken Broth: Acts as the savory, soul-soothing base that ties everything together.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken makes it quick, tender, and ultra convenient.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Add pops of juicy acidity and a gentle kick—so much more interesting than plain tomatoes!
White Beans: Creamy cannellini or great northern beans add protein and a luscious bite.
Corn Kernels: Sweet bursts of corn offer cheerful color and subtle crunch.
Lime Juice: A bright squeeze at the end makes all the flavors come alive!
Fresh Cilantro: Lends a fresh, herbaceous finish that brings the whole bowl together.

Shredded Cheese (optional): Cheddar or Monterey Jack adds the melty, gooey factor everyone loves.
Sliced Avocado (optional): Creamy slices on top give richness and color.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (optional): A dollop softens the heat and adds tang.
Tortilla Chips or Strips (optional): For dipping, scooping, or crunching over the top—super fun!

How to Make

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start with a large soup pot over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil, then toss in your diced onion and red bell pepper. Take a few minutes (about five) to sauté until they’re soft and fragrant. This quick step creates an amazing, savory foundation for the entire soup—totally worth the patience.

Step 2: Toast the Spices

Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper directly onto the sizzling veggies. Stir everything together and let the spices bloom for just a minute. This not only fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas but also intensifies each spice’s magic in your chicken chili soup.

Step 3: Add the Broth & Main Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, then add your shredded chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained white beans, and corn kernels. Give everything a big stir, making sure the beans aren’t sticking to the bottom. Now you’re seeing this chicken chili soup really take shape—so colorful and full already!

Step 4: Simmer & Meld Flavors

Bring your pot up to a gentle simmer. Let the soup bubble away on low for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives all the ingredients time to get to know each other, turning a handful of simple items into the flavorful, brothy chicken chili soup you’ve been craving.

Step 5: Finish with Lime & Cilantro

Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. This last step wakes up the flavors and adds sparkle to every bowl. Don’t skip it! You can taste and adjust seasoning if needed before ladling into bowls.

How to Serve

Garnishes

This chicken chili soup absolutely shines with a few finishing touches! A sprinkle of shredded cheese, a creamy fan of sliced avocado, a spoonful of sour cream or thick Greek yogurt, and plenty of crunchy tortilla chips make every bite a new adventure. Let everyone pick their favorite toppings for a fun, individualized meal.

Side Dishes

Pair your chicken chili soup with a warm slice of cornbread, a crisp green salad, or some cheesy quesadillas to round out the meal. If you’re serving a crowd, offer a toppings bar with extras like chopped green onions, lime wedges, or jalapeños for a customizable experience that’ll wow your guests.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh twist, try serving the soup in bread bowls for a rustic, cozy feel. Mini mugs of chicken chili soup make the perfect party appetizer. Or, ladle it over fluffy rice for a heartier, almost stew-like variation. However you serve it, this soup is guaranteed to steal the spotlight at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken chili soup holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This lets the flavors continue melding, making the leftovers arguably even tastier the next day!

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, chicken chili soup is freezer-friendly. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Leave a little room at the top for expansion, and thaw it in the fridge the night before you plan to reheat.

Reheating

For the best taste and texture, reheat chicken chili soup gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop until steaming hot. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave gets the job done, too—just be sure to stir a couple times for even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the soup.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken and chicken broth for vegetable broth and extra beans or another hearty veggie like zucchini. You’ll keep all the chili soup flavor and color, minus the meat.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply pull it apart using your fingers or two forks. For cooked chicken breasts, a quick burst from an electric mixer in a bowl shreds them effortlessly. It’s a great timesaver!

How spicy is this chicken chili soup?

The soup has a mild kick, thanks to chili powder and tomatoes with green chilies. To pump up the heat, toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper, or go easy if you’re serving kids or spice-sensitive folks.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, just sauté the veggies and spices first, then dump everything (except lime and cilantro) into your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in lime and cilantro just before serving for a flavor punch.

What are some topping ideas I haven’t thought of?

Besides the classic cheese and avocado, try pickled jalapeños, sliced radish, crumbled queso fresco, crispy bacon bits, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zing on your chicken chili soup.

Final Thoughts

I can’t think of a more soul-warming, crowd-pleasing dinner than a big pot of Chicken Chili Soup. It’s simple, flexible, and totally comforting—just the kind of recipe you’ll want in your back pocket for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Give it a try, and don’t forget those extra toppings!