Easy Spicy Chicken Rice Soup π₯£
Overview:
If you’re seeking comfort on a cold winter night or a quick, satisfying meal any time of the year, this Easy Spicy Chicken Rice Soup is your answer. Originating from a humble label on a can of tomatoes, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, pleasing even those who aren’t typically soup enthusiasts. With its simple preparation and hearty flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household too! Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and easily scalable, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 203.2 per serving
- Rating: 4.5 stars
Ingredients:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- Cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
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Cook Chicken:
- Season your chicken breasts with either Cajun or Mexican spices, giving them a flavorful kick. You can opt to bake or sautΓ© the chicken according to your preference. Alternatively, save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken, shredded into bite-sized pieces.
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Prepare Beans & Rice:
- While your chicken is cooking, start preparing the red beans and rice. I recommend using Zatarain’s mix for its authentic flavor. Follow the package instructions, allowing it to cook for approximately 30 minutes until tender and flavorful.
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Dice Chicken:
- Once your chicken is cooked through, dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. This step ensures that every spoonful of soup is loaded with tender chicken goodness.
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Combine Broth & Tomatoes:
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. The combination of broth and tomatoes forms the flavorful base of your soup.
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Add Chicken:
- Once the broth is boiling, add in the diced chicken pieces. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Incorporate Beans & Rice:
- After the chicken has simmered, stir in the prepared red beans and rice mixture. Let the soup heat through, ensuring that all the ingredients are piping hot and ready to serve.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls, and garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of cheese. The melted cheese adds a creamy richness that perfectly complements the spicy kick of the soup. Serve alongside crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 203.2
- Fat Content: 11.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 51.8mg
- Sodium Content: 727.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 9.1g
- Fiber Content: 1.9g
- Sugar Content: 5.5g
- Protein Content: 16.3g
Tips and Variations:
- For an extra kick of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the soup.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for topping, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, to tailor the flavor to your liking.
- To make the soup even heartier, consider adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or corn.
- Don’t hesitate to double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd or want to have leftovers for future meals. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and follow the same cooking instructions.
Conclusion:
With its blend of spicy flavors, tender chicken, and hearty beans and rice, this Easy Spicy Chicken Rice Soup is a surefire way to warm both body and soul. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal on a chilly evening or need a quick and satisfying dinner option, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowlful of homemade goodness!