There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup that transports me straight to a sun-soaked kitchen filled with laughter and tantalizing aromas. Just the thought of it conjures images of friends gathered around the table, eagerly diving into the vivid flavors that dance in this hearty dish.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly winter evening when all I craved was something delicious yet simple to prepare. The blending of roasted peppers, tender chicken, and rich spices felt like a warm hug to my palate. The secret? A sprinkle of smoked paprika and a drizzle of evaporated milk that transforms the soup into a creamy masterpiece.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for those cozy gatherings, this Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup will easily become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s as delightful in taste as it is in the memories it creates!
Why will you love this Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup?
Comforting Warmth: This soup envelops you in a cozy embrace, ideal for those chilly evenings.
Bold Flavors: A perfect blend of roasted peppers and spices delivers a delightful kick to your taste buds.
Quick to Make: In under 30 minutes, you can whip up this meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether hosting friends or family, its vibrant colors and rich taste are always a hit.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your palate.
Creamy Texture: The drizzle of evaporated milk adds a luxurious creaminess that’s simply irresistible!
If you’re searching for more comforting soup recipes, be sure to check out our collection of satisfying and hearty soups.
Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Dive into the vibrant flavors with these essential ingredients!
For the Soup Base
- Red bell pepper – adds a sweet crunch and beautiful color to our soup.
- Poblano pepper – delivers a mild heat that perfectly complements the dish.
- Diced onion – enhances the flavor profile with its savory essence.
- Olive oil – encourages veggies to soften while infusing a rich taste.
- Chicken broth – forms the flavorful foundation of our cozy soup.
- Garlic cloves – infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic depth.
For the Creamy Element
- Evaporated milk – creates a luscious creaminess that makes each bite heavenly.
- Cornstarch or all-purpose flour – thicken the soup for that perfect texture.
- Water – combines with cornstarch to ensure a smooth consistency.
For the Protein
- Cooked chicken breast – tender chunks ensure a fulfilling and hearty bite.
For the Flavor Boost
- Canned corn – adds sweetness and texture while enhancing the overall flavor.
- Black beans – provide protein and a lovely earthiness to the soup.
- Ground cumin – introduces an aromatic warmth that’s key to our recipe.
- Chili powder – offers that essential kick that livens up every spoonful.
- Smoked paprika – elevates the flavor profile with its unique smokiness.
- Salt – use to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Black pepper – adds a subtle spice that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Feel free to adjust any components to suit your taste, but savoring the essence of this Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup is a must!
How to Make Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Broth and Beans: Stir in the chicken broth, canned corn, black beans, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil to let all those vibrant flavors meld beautifully.
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Simmer for Flavor: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for approximately 20 minutes. This allows the ingredients to combine and creates that hearty depth of flavor you’ll love.
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Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it up for that perfect consistency.
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Finish with Creaminess: Incorporate the evaporated milk and the cubed cooked chicken. Stir well and heat through. Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure each spoonful is packed with flavor.
Optional: Top with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peppers and spices elevate the flavor of this soup. Avoid using stale or overly processed items to ensure vibrant taste.
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Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the chili powder or replace some black beans with additional corn for sweetness.
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Perfect Consistency: To avoid lumps, mix cornstarch with water thoroughly before adding it to the soup. This ensures a smooth, thickened texture.
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Enhance Creaminess: For an extra creamy Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese when serving.
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Flavor Boost Wait: Allow the soup to simmer long enough for flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a comforting experience with every spoonful.
Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and express your culinary creativity as you make it your own!
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Vegetarian: Substitute cooked chicken with diced zucchini or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based version. The rustic flavors will still shine beautifully.
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Spicy Twist: For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. The heat will warm your soul and awaken your palate.
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Creamy Vegan: Use coconut milk in place of evaporated milk and cornstarch for a dairy-free creamy delight. The subtle sweetness of coconut will add a refreshing twist!
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Quinoa Boost: Stir in some cooked quinoa during the final stages for added protein and texture, creating a heartier soup that’s equally satisfying.
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Roasted Corn: Incorporate fresh roasted corn instead of canned corn. The smoky sweetness of roasted kernels will elevate the soup’s flavor profile.
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Pasta Addition: Add small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini for a comforting, chowder-like experience that the whole family will adore.
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Nutty Infusion: Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil or sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds on top for a unique nutty flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
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Citrus Zing: A squeeze of fresh lime juice as a garnish before serving will brighten the dish, giving it an extra burst of freshness and zest!
What to Serve with Chicken Tortilla Soup?
When you’re ready to elevate your soup experience, consider these delightful accompaniments that will enhance your meal.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: The perfect crunchy companion, these add texture and a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s warmth. Dip them into the rich broth for a delightful blend of flavors.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, fresh avocado not only cools the soup’s spiciness but also adds a luxurious touch that brings every bite to life.
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Mexican Rice: Fluffy and seasoned just right, this comforting side absorbs the delicious broth, creating a lovely harmony on your plate. It makes for a filling option alongside a steaming bowl of soup.
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Grilled Corn Salad: With its sweetness and vibrant colors, this fresh salad brings a burst of brightness to your meal. The grilled flavors pair beautifully with the rich, smoky notes of the soup.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch from shredded cabbage and carrots creates a textural contrast against the soup’s creamy base. You can easily customize it with zesty dressings!
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Sour Cream: A simple dollop of sour cream adds rich creaminess and helps balance out the soup’s bold flavors. It’s an inviting addition to the final presentation.
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Fresh Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness! Its herbaceous flavor elevates each spoonful, connecting beautifully with the deep spices in the soup.
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Glass of Limeade: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of limeade that brings a zesty zing, perfectly pairing with the complex flavors of the soup.
These delightful options will create a cozy, memorable meal experience, transforming your chicken tortilla soup into a feast for the senses!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and onion up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can cook and cube the chicken ahead of time, storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to incorporate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the broth and beans, simmer, thicken, and stir in the chicken and evaporated milk. This way, you can enjoy a warm, restaurant-quality soup with minimal effort on a busy weeknight!
How to Store and Freeze Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally. Enjoy that comforting bowl again!
Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best peppers for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing peppers, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For the red bell pepper, choose one that feels heavy for its size and has shiny skin; avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. For the poblano, a dark green hue signifies ripeness. Remember, the fresher the peppers, the better the flavor!
What is the best way to store leftover Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup?
Very simple! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which could dilute the flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warmed through.
Can I freeze the soup, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. You can store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup is thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Just gradually stir in a bit of chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Keep it on low heat while mixing to allow the flavors to adjust. Remember, it’s all about customizing to your taste—so feel free to add a splash until it’s just right!
Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions, such as allergies?
Certainly! This soup can be adapted to meet various dietary needs. If you’re concerned about gluten, use cornstarch for thickening instead of flour. For dairy-free options, swap out evaporated milk with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary requirements, especially for allergies.
How should I garnish my Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup?
To really elevate the soup, I recommend topping it with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick! A sprinkle of shredded cheese can also add an extra touch of creaminess. The more the merrier, right? Experiment with different toppings to find your perfect combination!
Savor Santa Fe Green Chile Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chicken broth, canned corn, black beans, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it up.
- Incorporate the evaporated milk and the cubed cooked chicken. Stir well and heat through.
