Get ready to embark on a flavor journey with our hearty and delightful Chili’s Copycat Southwest Chicken Soup. Packed with tender chicken, hominy, and black beans in a smoky chipotle broth, this easy soup recipe is your ticket to the authentic taste of the Southwest.
You can enjoy a taste fiesta with this Chili’s Copycat Southwest Chicken Soup! It’s hearty, tasty, and simple to make, with smoky chipotle broth, tender chicken, black beans, and hominy. Spice it up and savor the Southwest in every comforting spoonful.
Many people love Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup, and for good reason: this tasty, protein-rich soup really hits the spot. With its hearty broth, juicy chicken, and mix of Southwestern flavors, it’s easy to see why this soup has so many fans. But what makes this bowl of comfort food so delicious? Let’s look at the main ingredients and find out what makes Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup so satisfying.
The Foundation: Chicken Broth and Shredded Chicken
The base of Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup begins with a hearty chicken broth seasoned with aromatic vegetables and herbs. This provides a rich savory flavor foundation. Chili’s likely simmers chicken bones onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves to develop a complex, homemade-tasting broth.
The shredded chicken thigh or breast meat adds hearty protein and texture. It’s likely seasoned simply with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder before getting shredded and added to the simmering broth. The tender, pull-apart chicken soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Packing in Southwestern Flavor: Beans, Corn, Tomatoes
What transforms this chicken soup into a Southwest-inspired bowl is the addition of black beans, corn, and tomatoes. The black beans provide fiber, plant-based protein, and an earthy, mildly sweet flavor. Frozen or canned corn kernels lend vibrant sweetness and texture. Diced tomatoes introduce brightness and acidity to cut through the richness. Fire-roasted tomatoes would amplify the Southwestern vibe.
Spice Blend: The Secret Ingredient
The magic of Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup lies in its proprietary spice blend. While the exact measurements are a secret, some guesses at the key spices include:
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Smoked paprika – For deep, smoky aroma and flavor
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Chili powder – Brings warmth, not too much heat
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Cumin – Earthy and slightly bitter
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Garlic powder – Pumps up the savory quality
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Onion powder – Rounds out flavor profile
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Oregano – Hint of herbaceousness
Getting the blend just right is crucial for balancing richness with Southwestern flair.
Finishing Touches: Garnishes and Toppings
No Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup is complete without crispy tortilla strips sprinkled on top. Fried corn tortilla strips add irresistible crunch and texture contrast. Other tasty garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or crema, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges let you customize your bowl.
Nutrition Information: Calories, Carbs, and More
Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup manages to be hearty and filling without tipping the scales calorie-wise. A bowl clocks in around 173 calories. It packs 16 grams of protein thanks to the chicken. With 12 grams of carbs and 7 grams of fiber, it provides a balanced nutritional profile. Sodium content rings in around 388 milligrams per bowl. The fresh veggies like corn, tomatoes and beans boost vitamins and minerals. It’s a lighter yet mighty satisfying soup choice.
Variations: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, and Spice Level
Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup fits a variety of diets:
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To make it vegetarian: use vegetable broth and sub cooked beans for the chicken.
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For gluten-free: omit the tortilla strips or use gluten-free strips. Watch for cross-contamination.
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To adjust spice level: add more or less adobo sauce and chili powder.
The soup’s basic formula adapts well to preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup?
The soup balances zesty Southwestern spice blend with savory chicken broth. Hints of smoke, warmth, and herbs come through.
Does it contain common allergens?
Yes, it contains dairy from cheese and wheat from tortilla strips. Always check with the restaurant for up-to-date allergen information.
Can I make it at home?
Absolutely! Find an array of copycat recipes online. Focus on building flavor with real ingredients over powders.
What type of chicken is used?
Shredded white meat chicken, either breast or thigh. It provides a hearty base without too much fat.
How spicy is it?
It has a mild to medium level of heat from adobo sauce and chili powder. Toppings like sour cream can tame it down.
Is it served year-round at Chili’s?
Yes, it’s a menu staple available year-round, unless supply chain issues cause shortages.
Can I omit the tortilla strips?
Yes, you can request the soup without tortilla strips to cut carbs, calories, or gluten.
What are good side dishes?
Try corn bread, a loaded baked potato, tortilla chips and salsa, or a side salad.
What’s the largest soup size?
Chili’s offers the soup in cup and bowl sizes. Opt for a bowl to satisfy heartier appetites.
Can I add extra toppings?
You can request added ingredients like extra cheese, cilantro or crema based on the location’s policies.
Is there a vegetarian Southwest soup?
No, Chili’s doesn’t offer a vegetarian version. But you can create one at home by swapping in veggie broth.
How does it compare nutritionally to other Chili’s soups?
It’s lower in fat and calories compared to cream-based soups. But it can be higher in sodium than broth-based options.
Finally, Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup tastes great because it uses real, high-quality ingredients that are cooked just right. It’s filling and light at the same time, thanks to the Southwestern spice blend, chicken, and fresh vegetables. When you want a bowl of comfort food, this Chili’s favorite is the one to get.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Not only does this soup capture the essence of Chili’s, but it’s also a breeze to make. Throw everything into your slow cooker, let it simmer, and voilà! A steaming bowl of comfort awaits.
RELATED: Slow Cooker Bacon and Bean Soup – the perfect comfort food for a cold day. This soup is easy to make and only takes 10 minutes of hands-on time. It tastes great with smoked bacon and beans.
Garnished with your favorites, this soul-warming soup brings the authentic taste of the Southwest right to your table.
How to Store Any Leftover Soup
Simply refrigerate in sealed containers for a quick lunch or freeze for future cravings. Reheat and savor the Southwest goodness anytime.
This Crockpot Southwest Chicken Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a flavor-packed journey. Give it a go, and let the Southwest warmth fill your kitchen. Happy cooking!.
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