There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. As I stirred the pot of Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup, the delightful aroma of simmering spices filled my kitchen and instantly lifted my spirits. This hearty dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a ritual that transforms a simple weeknight into something special. I discovered this gem during a craving for bold flavors and a desire to escape the usual dinner monotony.
With tender chicken, zesty salsa, and the perfect kick of chili powder, this soup is a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to bring together, making it ideal for busy nights or whenever you’re entertaining friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just a lover of homemade goodness, you’ll appreciate how quickly this can become a family favorite. So, grab your pot and let’s dive into a culinary adventure that promises warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful!
Why is Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: This soup envelops you in a cozy embrace on chilly nights.
Bold Flavors: Zesty salsa and chili powder create a flavor explosion that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Easy to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep, it fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
Feeding a Crowd: Yields 8 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Dive into the delightful world of Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup and turn any ordinary evening into a flavorful feast!
Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this heartwarming dish!
For the Soup Base
• Water – 2 quarts, the foundation for this flavorful broth.
• Skinless, boneless chicken breast – 8 halves, providing lean protein and tender texture.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon, to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Ground black pepper – 1 teaspoon, adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, for a savory kick that’ll make your soup sing.
• Dried parsley – 2 tablespoons, infusing a fresh, herbal note into the soup.
• Onion powder – 1 tablespoon, delivering warmth and sweetness.
• Chicken bouillon cubes – 5 cubes, intensifying the chicken flavor in your broth.
For the Flavor Explosion
• Olive oil – 3 tablespoons, ideal for sautéing the aromatic onion and garlic.
• Onion – 1, chopped, bringing sweetness and depth to the base.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, chopped, adding that essential aromatic flair.
• Chunky salsa – 1 (16 ounce) jar, introducing a zesty and vibrant flavor profile, perfect for Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup.
• Peeled and diced tomatoes – 2 (14.5 ounce) cans, creating the rich body of the soup.
• Whole peeled tomatoes – 1 (14.5 ounce) can, offering a hearty element to the mix.
• Condensed tomato soup – 1 (10.5 ounce) can, for a creamy and tangy touch.
• Chili powder – 3 tablespoons, delivering the much-loved spicy element of this dish.
For the Finishing Touches
• Whole kernel corn – 1 (15 ounce) can, drained, adding sweetness and texture.
• Chili beans – 2 (16 ounce) cans, undrained, enriching the soup with protein and heartiness.
• Sour cream – 1 (8 ounce) container, perfect for swirl-in creaminess at the end.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be ready to prepare a soul-nourishing bowl of Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup that will surely delight your family and friends!
How to Make Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup
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Combine Ingredients: In a large pot over medium heat, combine the water, chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, parsley, onion powder, and bouillon cubes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. Remove the chicken and reserve the broth. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Cook the chopped onion and garlic until they are slightly browned, filling your kitchen with blissful aromas.
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Mix in Vegetables and Chicken: Stir in the chunky salsa, diced tomatoes, whole tomatoes, condensed tomato soup, chili powder, drained corn, undrained chili beans, shredded chicken, and 5 cups of the reserved broth.
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Simmer for Flavor: Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those bold flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a hearty and delicious bowl of comfort.
Optional: Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup
• Chicken Cooking Time: Make sure the chicken simmers long enough—about 1 hour—until the juices run clear. This ensures tender, juicy pieces for the soup.
• Flavor Boost: For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a few slices of jalapeño. It brings a delightful twist to Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup.
• Sauté Aromatics Well: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Browning the onions and garlic builds a foundation of flavor that enriches the entire dish.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition. Just ensure they are chopped uniformly for even cooking.
• Chili Bean Choice: Use a combination of different chili beans if you enjoy varying textures or want a unique flavor profile in your soup.
Make Ahead Options
These meal prep tips for Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup will save you time, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the soup base (step 1) up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook the chicken and shred it, then refrigerate it along with the broth. Additionally, you can sauté the onion and garlic and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just combine everything in the pot, stir in the salsa, tomatoes, beans, and corn, then simmer for about 30 minutes to bring all those flavors together again. This way, you’ll enjoy a warm, hearty soup that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing distinct flavors and textures with this heavenly bowl of comfort!
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Savory Cornbread: This tender, slightly sweet bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of the spicy soup.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and delicious, these chips offer a satisfying contrast and are great for scooping up soup.
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Fresh Avocado Salad: A vibrant mix of creamy avocado, lime, and tomatoes adds a refreshing note that balances the heat.
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Herb Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh herbs provides a light, aromatic base that complements the hearty soup.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are wonderful for dipping and adding a touch of indulgence to your meal.
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Lemonade: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade refreshes the palate and enhances the bold flavors of the soup.
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Chocolate Brownies: End on a sweet note with fudgy brownies that bring a rich, chocolatey contrast to your savory meal.
Pairing these delightful options with Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup will create a feast that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.
How to Store and Freeze Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
Freezer: To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep its flavor for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until steaming hot, stirring occasionally. Enjoy the warmth of Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup once more!
Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this delightful soup for a taste experience like no other!
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Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt to keep it creamy and delicious without the dairy.
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Heat Levels: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick, perfect for spice enthusiasts looking for a fiery twist.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color, making the soup even more wholesome.
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Lean Meat Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of breast halves for a leaner version. It’s just as tasty and full of flavor!
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Bean Variety: Incorporate black beans or kidney beans alongside chili beans for a heartier texture and a unique flavor profile; your soup will be extra satisfying!
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Slow Cooker Method: For a hands-off approach, prepare everything in a slow cooker and let it simmer for 6-8 hours; simply shred the chicken before serving for an easy dinner.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh twist; the herbs will brighten the flavor and elevate your soup without adding extra effort.
Let your culinary creativity flow and make Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup your perfect cozy meal!
Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for the soup?
I highly recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breast halves for Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup. They cook up tender and shred beautifully, ensuring a delightful texture in your soup. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too, bringing added richness!
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, adding a splash of broth can help restore that fresh flavor and prevent it from getting too thick.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze Catherine’s Spicy Chicken Soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
How do I reheat frozen soup?
For reheating, you can do so on the stove or in the microwave. On the stove, warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s steaming hot. In the microwave, it usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the quantity. If it’s too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little broth or water to get the desired consistency!
What if I have food allergies?
Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies! For example, some canned products like salsa or beans might contain allergens. Additionally, if you want to adapt the recipe, you can explore gluten-free options for bouillon or sour cream, or opt for dairy-free alternatives if lactose intolerant.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Very! If you want to use fresh tomatoes, about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes should work nicely. Just make sure to peel them first for a smoother soup. To do this, you can blanch them in hot water for about 30 seconds and then slip off the skins—it’s a little extra work, but worth it for that homemade touch!
Warm Up with Catherine's Spicy Chicken Soup Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, combine the water, chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, parsley, onion powder, and bouillon cubes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove chicken and reserve the broth. Shred chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same pot, add olive oil and heat over medium. Cook chopped onion and garlic until slightly browned.
- Stir in chunky salsa, diced tomatoes, whole tomatoes, condensed tomato soup, chili powder, drained corn, undrained chili beans, shredded chicken, and reserved broth.
- Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream if desired.