Chicken Tomatillo Soup

If you’re in the mood for a vibrant, zesty, and comforting dish, look no further than this Chicken Tomatillo Soup. Bursting with flavor from fresh tomatillos, tender chicken, and a delightful mix of spices, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a meal prep option, Chicken Tomatillo Soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Reasons to Love Chicken Tomatillo Soup

There are countless reasons to adore this Chicken Tomatillo Soup. Here are just a few:

• Flavorful & Zesty: The combination of tomatillos and green chiles adds a bright and tangy flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and quick prep time, you can have this soup ready in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, lean protein, and wholesome ingredients.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add toppings, or include additional veggies to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunches or easy dinners.

What’s in the Bowl

This Chicken Tomatillo Soup is a delightful medley of ingredients that create a nourishing and delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (10 oz.) can Ro-Tel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles (or similar canned tomatoes)
• 6 medium-sized tomatillos, chopped to make about 2 cups finely chopped tomatillos
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 8 cups chicken stock
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles (Anaheim chiles, not Jalapenos!)
• 1 tsp. Mexican oregano
• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 tsp. salt (or a little less, to taste)
• Fresh-ground pepper to taste
• 4 cups diced cooked chicken breast
• 1 pkg. (10 – 12 oz.) frozen cauliflower rice
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (more or less to taste)
• 1 T fresh-squeezed lime juice (or more, add one tablespoon and taste to see if you want more)
• 2 diced avocados, for serving (optional but highly recommended)
• Fresh lime pieces to squeeze into the soup at the table (optional)

Equipment Breakdown

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for simmering and combining all the ingredients.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping the vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Ladle: Perfect for stirring and serving the soup.
• Serving Bowls: For plating the delicious Chicken Tomatillo Soup.

Chicken Tomatillo Soup: How It’s Done

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get started on making this delightful Chicken Tomatillo Soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma of sautéing onions will fill your kitchen and set the stage for the soup.

Step 2: Add Tomatillos and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomatillos, Mexican oregano, ground cumin, salt, and fresh-ground pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatillos soften slightly and release their juices.

Step 3: Incorporate the Canned Ingredients

Add the can of Ro-Tel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles, as well as the 4 oz. can of diced green chiles. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The mixture should start to bubble, infusing your kitchen with delightful scents.

Step 4: Pour in the Chicken Stock

Next, pour in the 8 cups of chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, letting all the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Cauliflower Rice

Stir in the diced cooked chicken breast and frozen cauliflower rice. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the cauliflower rice is heated through and tender.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lime

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The soup should be bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the Chicken Tomatillo Soup into bowls. Top with diced avocados, fresh lime wedges, and extra cilantro if desired. Dive into this comforting bowl of goodness and savor every bite!

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some adjustments, here are a few healthier substitutions:

• Use Low-Sodium Chicken Stock: To reduce sodium intake.
• Swap Chicken for Turkey: Ground turkey can be a leaner option.
• Skip the Avocado: If you’re watching calories, you can leave this off.
• Increase Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

The magic of Chicken Tomatillo Soup lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the spice levels to suit your taste buds or add additional toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess. This soup is also a great way to use up leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.

• Consider adding beans for extra protein and fiber.
• If you’re a spice lover, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
• This soup is great served with tortilla chips for added crunch!

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This Chicken Tomatillo Soup is excellent for meal prep! Here are some tips for storing, freezing, and reheating:

• Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out any toppings like avocado until you’re ready to serve.
• Reheating: Simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or stock if the soup thickens too much.

Chicken Tomatillo Soup FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?

Absolutely! You can add raw chicken breast to the pot after sautéing the onions. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.

Is this soup spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on the type of canned tomatoes and chiles you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, opt for mild versions, and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply combine all the ingredients except for the cilantro and lime juice in a slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cilantro and lime juice before serving.

What can I serve with Chicken Tomatillo Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for more quick and easy meal ideas, check out these links:

• 30-Minute Meals on Sally’s Baking Addiction
• Quick Dinner Recipes on Pinch of Yum
• Quick & Easy Recipes on Minimalist Baker

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Chicken Tomatillo Soup is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting yet fresh. Don’t forget to customize it to your liking, and enjoy every spoonful of this vibrant soup! Your taste buds will thank you, and so will your family. Happy cooking!