Spicy Lime Jalapeño Chicken Soup

As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul. Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe for Spicy Lime Jalapeño Chicken Soup. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a delightful kick, thanks to the jalapeños. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that serves eight.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
• 1-2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust based on your spice preference)
• 1 whole raw chicken
• 2 cans white beans, rinsed and drained
• 8 cups chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lime
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Fresh jalapeño slices, for garnish
• Freshly chopped cilantro, for garnish
• 1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Start by Heating the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and jalapeño slices. Season them with a sprinkle of kosher salt. Sauté the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and begin to brown slightly.
2. Cook the Chicken: Place the whole chicken in the pot and pour the chicken broth over it. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 60 minutes. This slow cooking process is crucial as it ensures that the chicken is perfectly tender and flavors the broth deeply.
3. Blend the Soup Base: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Meanwhile, take the broth and cooked vegetables and blend them in a blender until smooth. This creates a rich, velvety base for your soup.
4. Add the Final Touches: Pour the pureed broth back into the pot. Stir in the lime juice and white beans for some added texture and flavor. Debone and shred the chicken once it’s cool enough to handle and add it back to the pot. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
5. Simmer and Serve: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh slices of jalapeño, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a wedge of lime on the side. These fresh garnishes add a burst of flavor and a touch of freshness to each bowl.

Prep and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 90 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal in itself but can be paired with a crusty piece of bread or a light salad for a fuller meal. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a satisfying meal prep option for the week.

Enjoy the burst of flavors and the comforting warmth of this Spicy Lime Jalapeño Chicken Soup. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or simply in the mood for something zesty and fulfilling, this soup is sure to hit the spot!