There’s something uniquely satisfying about a hot, spicy bowl of soup on a chilly day. And if you’re a fan of a bit of heat in your meals, you’ll fall in love with this Spicy Green Chili Chicken Tenderloin Soup. Bursting with bold flavors, this soup brings together the rich spices of Mexico, tender pieces of chicken, and the vibrant taste of green chilies in a hearty, savory broth. Let’s dive into why this soup is bound to become your next cold-weather favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This soup isn’t your average chicken soup. It’s layered with a complexity of flavors from sautéed onions and garlic, the warmth of cumin and chili powder, and the freshness of lime and cilantro. Each spoonful offers a tantalizing balance between spicy, savory, and tangy, with tender chicken and hearty black beans and corn to keep you full and satisfied.
For those who enjoy Mexican-inspired dishes, this soup will remind you of classic flavors but in a cozy, warming way that’s perfect for fall and winter. Plus, it’s easy to make, meaning you can bring the essence of a home-cooked, comforting meal to your table without hours of preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick overview of what makes this soup shine:
- Chicken Tenderloins: Perfect for a light yet flavorful protein that complements the soup’s spicy base.
- Green Chilies: Roasted and diced, these add a smoky depth and spice level that can be adjusted to your preference.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper bring a classic Mexican profile, warming the soup from the inside out.
- Vegetables: Corn and black beans not only add texture and color but also make the soup more filling and nutritionally balanced.
- Fresh Lime and Cilantro: These final touches add brightness, balancing out the soup’s rich flavors with a touch of freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Spicy Green Chili Chicken Tenderloin Soup is a breeze. Here’s a rundown of the simple steps:
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté the chicken tenderloins in olive oil until they’re cooked through, then set them aside. This step not only cooks the chicken but also leaves flavorful bits in the pot, which adds depth to the soup.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add diced onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Spices: Pour in chicken broth and water, then add the roasted green chilies and spices. Bring it to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to develop.
- Combine the Ingredients: Return the chicken to the pot, breaking it into bite-sized pieces as you go. Add the corn and black beans, letting everything simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Finish with Freshness: Just before serving, add chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Garnish to Taste: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with creamy avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, and shredded cheese if you like – these optional toppings elevate the soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re serving it as a main meal or a starter, this soup is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes. For those who prefer extra heat, you can add a dash of hot sauce or additional chili powder. And for a creamier version, try adding a swirl of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Spicy Green Chili Chicken Tenderloin Soup is an all-around winner – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and has a satisfying, bold flavor profile. Plus, it’s ideal for meal prepping; make a big pot, and you’ll have a delicious, reheatable meal ready whenever you need it.
So, the next time you’re craving something warm, cozy, and full of flavor, grab these ingredients and try this soup recipe. It’s sure to become a staple in your winter recipe rotation!
PrintSpicy Green Chili Chicken Tenderloin Soup
Description
Warm up with this bold and flavorful Spicy Green Chili Chicken Tenderloin Soup! It’s a tantalizing blend of Mexican spices, green chilies, and savory chicken that will delight your taste buds and keep you cozy during any cold day. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals!
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenderloins
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup roasted green chilies, diced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken tenderloins and sauté until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add roasted green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine the spices with the broth.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon into bite-sized pieces.
6. Add corn and black beans, continuing to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice just before serving.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with avocado slices, sour cream, and shredded cheese as desired.