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Fiery Chicken Chili Soup

This hearty soup combines tender chicken with a fiery mix of chili spices, simmered in rich chicken broth. Finished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of citrus, it offers a warm, spicy, and satisfying texture with a vibrant appearance. The result is a comforting bowl with a bright, fragrant broth and tender chunks of chicken, perfect for chilly days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces chicken breast or thighs diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder adjust for heat preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably homemade or store-bought
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice brightens the soup
  • 1/4 cup cilantro or scallions chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Gather all ingredients and chop the onion and garlic, keeping everything within reach for a smooth cooking process.
  2. Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes, with a gentle sizzle and aromatic smell filling the kitchen.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the pot, along with chili powder, cayenne, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken begins to brown and is just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, with a slight sizzle and color change.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to cook for about 20 minutes, during which the broth becomes aromatic and slightly thickened, with bubbles softly breaking the surface.
  5. Uncover and taste the soup, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice to add brightness and balance the heat, stirring to combine.
  6. Once the flavors meld and the soup is hot, ladle it into bowls, garnishing with chopped cilantro or scallions for a burst of fresh green color and flavor.
  7. Serve the spicy chicken chili soup hot, enjoying the fragrant, fiery broth with tender chicken pieces and fresh herbs in every spoonful.

Notes

Adjust spice levels to taste by adding more or less chili powder and cayenne. For a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. Garnish with additional herbs or a squeeze of citrus for extra freshness.