Spicy Chicken Soup
Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food
This Spicy Chicken Soup is a warm, comforting dish packed with flavor and a kick of heat. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.
This Spicy Chicken Soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices to create a hearty meal that's both nutritious and delicious. The heat can be adjusted to your taste, making it versatile for everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of spices that warms you from the inside out
- Packed with protein and veggies for a healthy meal
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns cold or you’re feeling under the weather, a bowl of Spicy Chicken Soup can do wonders. This dish offers a heartwarming experience, combining tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and a robust broth that warms you from the inside out. Its comforting nature makes it an ideal choice for family dinners or solo nights when you need a little extra care.
One of the best aspects of this soup is its versatility. You can easily modify the spice levels to suit your palate, making it just as mild or fiery as you like. Whether you choose to add more cayenne or substitute with different vegetables, this soup invites creativity while still delivering that classic flavor.
Nutritious and Satisfying
Not only does this Spicy Chicken Soup satisfy your taste buds, but it also provides a nutritious boost. With lean chicken breasts, an array of colorful vegetables, and the addition of black beans, this dish is a powerhouse of protein and fiber. It’s a great way to fuel your body while enjoying a delicious meal.
Moreover, the inclusion of fresh ingredients ensures that you’re not just indulging in comfort food but also nourishing your body. Each bowl is filled with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a smart choice for a healthy lifestyle. Enjoying this soup can help you maintain energy levels and support overall well-being.
Easy Meal Prep
This Spicy Chicken Soup is also an excellent option for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for later use. Preparing a large batch means you’ll have wholesome meals ready to go, perfect for busy weekdays or unexpected guests. Just reheat and enjoy!
To make the most of your meal prep, consider portioning the soup into individual containers. This way, you can grab a serving whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal. Reheating is simple, and the flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even more delicious!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Broth and Spices
Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes.
Serve
Once the soup is done, serve hot and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
This soup is great served with crusty bread!
Tips for Customization
One of the best things about this Spicy Chicken Soup is how easy it is to customize. If you have specific dietary preferences or ingredients on hand, don’t hesitate to make substitutions. For example, you could swap the black beans for chickpeas or add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving. This will give the soup a rich, velvety finish that pairs beautifully with the spices. Experiment with different toppings too; avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish even further.
Storage and Reheating
To store your Spicy Chicken Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, ensure you use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor.
When reheating, it’s best to use a stovetop for even heating. Simply pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much during storage, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Pairing Suggestions
This Spicy Chicken Soup pairs wonderfully with various sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a satisfying combination. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the soup. The crispness of the salad provides a nice contrast and balances the warmth of the dish. Enjoy your meal with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing finish!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze Spicy Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and beans, this soup is gluten-free.
Spicy Chicken Soup
This Spicy Chicken Soup is a warm, comforting dish packed with flavor and a kick of heat. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Family Favorite Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes.
Once the soup is done, serve hot and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g