There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with bold flavors like the Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup. This recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant green chilies, and a rich broth that’s both hearty and refreshing. It’s a perfect dish for chilly evenings or whenever you need a satisfying meal with a little kick.
Ingredients
To create an authentic Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup, we gather fresh and vibrant ingredients that build its bold flavor and comforting texture. Here is everything we need to craft this delicious soup.
Chicken and Broth
We start with tender, protein-packed components that form the backbone of the soup’s rich and satisfying base.
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 6 cups chicken broth, preferably low sodium for control over saltiness
Vegetables and Aromatics
These fresh elements add depth, sweetness, and a vibrant aroma that balance the heat of the green chilies.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow onion | Diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves | Minced | 3 cloves |
| Jalapeño peppers | Seeded and chopped | 1 medium (optional for extra heat) |
| Central Market green chilies | Roasted, peeled, chopped | 1 cup |
| Diced tomatoes | Canned or fresh | 1 cup |
Spices and Seasonings
We enhance the natural flavors with carefully selected spices that create the iconic taste profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnishes and Optional Add-Ins
These final touches add color, texture, and a creamy or herbal contrast to the spicy and savory broth.
- Chopped fresh cilantro — for brightness
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt — for creaminess
- Shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Lime wedges — for zest and acidity
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips — for crunch
With these ingredients ready, we are set to bring together every layer of flavor in this Green Chili Chicken Soup that warms the soul and excites the palate.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup efficiently and with the best results, we need specific kitchen tools that enable precise cooking and easy handling. Having the right equipment ensures that every element—from tender chicken to vibrant green chilies—is cooked perfectly and melded together into a flavorful broth.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: Choose a heavy-bottomed pot with at least 6-quart capacity. This is crucial for evenly cooking the chicken and simmering the broth without burning.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For finely dicing the yellow onion, garlic, jalapeño peppers, and green chilies, a sharp knife provides safety and precision.
- Cutting Board: Use a durable cutting board with enough space to handle all prep work.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Stirrer: Ideal for stirring ingredients over heat, avoiding scratching your stockpot.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements of spices like ground cumin and smoked paprika ensure balanced flavors.
- Ladle: Helps to serve the soup elegantly while mixing in garnishes.
- Colander or Fine Mesh Strainer: For rinsing fresh vegetables or draining canned green chilies if using.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
- Immersion Blender: Use this to slightly puree part of the soup, adding a creamy texture while retaining chunkiness.
- Tongs: Efficient for handling hot chicken pieces during cooking or shredding.
- Soup Bowls and Garnish Dishes: Preparing bowls and small dishes for sour cream, cheese, lime wedges, and tortilla strips keeps garnishes organized.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Stockpot/Dutch Oven | Cooking chicken and simmering soup | Minimum 6-quart size |
| Chef’s Knife | Dicing vegetables and chopping chicken | Sharp for clean cuts |
| Cutting Board | Safe chopping surface | Preferably large and stable |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Stirrer | Stirring soup ingredients | Heat resistant |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Measuring spices and liquids | Precision in seasoning |
| Ladle | Serving soup | Deep and easy to handle |
| Colander/Fine Mesh Strainer | Washing and draining vegetables | Prevents soggy ingredients |
| Immersion Blender | Blending part of the soup for texture | Optional |
| Tongs | Handling and shredding chicken | Heat safe and strong |
With all these tools at hand, we ensure a smooth cooking process that leads to a vibrant and delicious Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup every time.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, the key to a smooth process and rich flavor in our Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup starts with precise preparation. Let’s get everything ready step-by-step to build the perfect base.
Preparing the Chicken
We begin by selecting boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, juicy meat. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. To ensure even cooking and faster simmering, cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes or strips. Season lightly with salt and set aside.
If preferred, you can also use a whole chicken breast and shred it after cooking in the broth for that classic texture. Use tongs to handle the raw chicken safely throughout.
Chopping Vegetables
Vegetable prep boosts the soup’s fresh texture and depth. Here’s how we handle each:
- Yellow Onion: Peel and dice finely to release natural sweetness.
- Garlic Cloves: Mince them finely to infuse the broth with aromatic pungency.
- Jalapeño Peppers: De-seed and dice finely for a moderate heat layer. Use gloves if preferred.
- Central Market Green Chilies: Drain any excess liquid and chop coarsely to keep their vibrant, smoky flavor intact.
Using a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board ensures clean cuts and uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
Measuring Spices
Accurate spice measurement is crucial for balancing heat and complexity in our green chili chicken soup. We recommend using measuring spoons to follow these exact quantities:
| Spice | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Cumin | 1 teaspoon | Adds warm earthiness |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Enhances smoky depth |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon or to taste | Brings out all flavors |
| Black Pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds mild heat and complexity |
We advise keeping spices close at hand and measured before starting the cooking process. This makes seasoning reactive and balanced as the soup simmers.
By preparing the chicken, chopping the vegetables precisely, and measuring our spices carefully, we set the stage for a fragrant, flavorful Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup that satisfies every spoonful.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create our rich and spicy Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup that bursts with flavor and warmth in every spoonful.
Cooking the Chicken and Broth
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes or strips.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked. This step locks in juices and flavor.
- Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer the chicken in the broth for 15 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
Adding Vegetables and Green Chilies
- While the chicken cooks, finely dice the following vegetables:
- 1 large yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 jalapeño pepper (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 cup of Central Market green chilies (fresh or canned)
- Add the diced onion and jalapeño to the pot, stirring for 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Central Market green chilies into the soup, mixing thoroughly to combine the smoky heat.
Simmering the Soup
- Add the measured spices to the pot:
| Spice | Amount |
|——————-|————–|
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | - Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly.
Final Seasoning Adjustments
- Taste the soup carefully. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- For a brighter punch, squeeze the juice of 1 lime wedge into the soup and stir.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips for irresistible layers of texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup experience, we focus on complementary sides and garnishes that balance spice and texture perfectly.
Garnishes to Enhance Flavor and Texture
We recommend finishing each bowl with these toppings to add brightness, creaminess, and crunch:
- Fresh cilantro leaves: Adds a vibrant herbal note.
- Sour cream or Mexican crema: Offers a cooling, creamy contrast to the heat.
- Shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Provides a rich, melty texture.
- Crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips: Brings delightful crunch and substance.
- Fresh lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds refreshing acidity that brightens every bite.
Side Dish Pairings
Offering these sides complements the soup’s bold flavors and creates a well-rounded meal:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Warm corn tortillas | Soft, slightly sweet | Perfect for scooping and savoring the soup |
| Mexican street corn (Elote) | Grilled corn with cheese, chili powder, and lime | Adds smoky, creamy richness with a kick |
| Cilantro lime rice | Flavored white rice with fresh herbs and citrus zest | Balances soup’s spice and adds filling carbs |
Beverage Pairings
We suggest light, refreshing drinks that soothe the palate:
- Iced horchata: Sweet, creamy rice milk spiced with cinnamon.
- Cold Mexican lager: Crisp beer to cool the spice.
- Sparkling water with lime: Refreshing and palate-cleansing.
By incorporating these Serving Suggestions, our Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup becomes a complete meal that delights every sense. We encourage experimenting with different toppings and sides to suit your taste and occasion.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup anytime, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques ensures freshness and flavor retention. Here’s how we handle it:
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the soup fully following the recipe instructions.
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Portion into airtight containers for convenient reheating.
- Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
Pro Tip: If you want to enhance the flavor, make the soup a day ahead and refrigerate overnight. The spices and chilies meld beautifully, intensifying the taste.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Store the soup in airtight containers or large glass jars.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain optimal flavor and safety.
- Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is perfect for long-term storage and quick meal solutions. Follow these steps:
- Cool the soup completely.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Leave at least 1-inch space at the top for expansion.
- Seal tightly and label with the date.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Airtight container, cool first |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Leave space for expansion, seal well |
Thawing and Reheating from Frozen
- Transfer frozen soup to the refrigerator and thaw overnight.
- Alternatively, thaw quickly in a microwave on defrost mode.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat until simmering.
- Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Additional Tips to Preserve Flavor and Texture
- Avoid freezing soup with dairy toppings; add sour cream or cheese fresh when serving.
- For best texture, slightly undercook the chicken before freezing; finish cooking after thawing.
- Store garnishes like tortilla strips and fresh cilantro separately to maintain crunch and freshness.
By applying these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we can savor the comforting warmth and zesty kick of our Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup Recipe whenever we desire.
Conclusion
This Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup is a perfect blend of bold flavors and comforting warmth. It’s a versatile dish that fits any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to make this soup a regular in our kitchen. Plus, the suggested garnishes and sides take it to the next level, making each bowl a satisfying experience.
We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the vibrant taste of green chilies paired with tender chicken. It’s a delicious way to bring a little spice and comfort into your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Central Market Green Chili Chicken Soup?
The soup features tender chicken, Central Market green chilies, low-sodium chicken broth, yellow onion, garlic, jalapeño peppers, and spices like ground cumin and smoked paprika.
What kitchen tools do I need to make this soup?
You’ll need a large stockpot or Dutch oven, chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring spoons and cups. Optional tools include an immersion blender and tongs for easier handling.
How do I prepare the chicken for the soup?
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut them into 1-inch cubes or strips for even cooking and better texture.
How should I chop the vegetables?
Dice yellow onion, garlic, jalapeño peppers, and green chilies finely. Precise chopping helps enhance the soup’s texture and flavor.
What spices enhance the soup’s flavor?
Ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper are used to create a balanced, rich flavor profile.
How long should I simmer the soup?
Simmer the soup until the chicken is tender and flavors meld, usually about 20-30 minutes after adding the broth and vegetables.
What garnishes go best with this soup?
Fresh cilantro, sour cream or Mexican crema, shredded cheese, crispy tortilla strips, and lime wedges make excellent garnishes.
What side dishes pair well with this soup?
Warm corn tortillas, Mexican street corn (Elote), and cilantro lime rice complement the soup’s bold flavors nicely.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, making it a day before enhances flavor. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
How should I store leftovers to keep them fresh?
Cool soup to room temperature, store in airtight containers, keep dairy toppings separate, and reheat gently to preserve flavor and texture.