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Do you ever crave something warm, spicy, and utterly satisfying? This Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup is exactly what you need! Inspired by the beloved Chopt classic, this homemade recipe delivers bold flavors, tender chicken, and just the right kick of heat. It’s the ultimate chicken soup—hearty, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.
What makes this Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup special is its versatility. Want to amp up the spice? Add more jalapeños. Do you prefer a creamier texture? A splash of coconut milk does wonders. This recipe brings the restaurant-quality magic of Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup straight to your table—no takeout needed!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple but loaded with flavor. Here’s what you need:
For the Soup Base:
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- One medium onion, finely diced
- Three garlic cloves, minced
- Two medium carrots, diced
- Two celery stalks, diced
- One red bell pepper, diced
- One tablespoon of tomato paste
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium works best)
- One can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- One teaspoon of smoked paprika
- One teaspoon of chilli powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- One teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 2 cups shredded chicken (leftover or rotisserie is perfect)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine—your call)
- One tablespoon of fresh lime juice
Toppings (Optional):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Avocado slices
- Jalapeño slices
- Tortilla chips or strips
- A dollop of sour cream
How to Make Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup Step-by-Step
Start with the Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute. Then, pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring it to a gentle boil.
Add the Spices
If you’re using it, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to combine the flavors.
Toss in the Chicken and Rice
Add the shredded chicken and cooked rice to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
Finish Strong
Squeeze in the lime juice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Don’t skip the lime—it brightens up the soup like magic!
Why You’ll Love Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup
When it comes to homemade soups, there’s a lot to love about this Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice. It’s not just about the flavor (though that’s a massive part). This soup is about being easy, versatile, and a lifesaver on busy nights. Plus, it brings restaurant-quality taste into your kitchen without a takeout menu. This Chick-fil-A Spicy Soup is more than a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish for meal prep, it’s got you covered.
Big Flavor, Minimal Effort
If you’ve ever wondered how Chopt’s soup gets its rich, smoky flavor, the answer is all in the ingredients and spices. The fire-roasted tomatoes bring a slight charred sweetness, while the smoked paprika and chili powder add warmth and depth. You’d think this level of flavor would take hours, but nope! This recipe delivers it with just a few pantry staples and some simple steps.
Here’s a little secret: sautéing your veggies first and letting the spices toast for a minute before adding the broth works magic. The tomato paste also boosts the soup of umami, making each spoonful taste like you spent all day cooking (even if you didn’t).
And don’t forget that final splash of lime juice! It brightens everything, cuts through the heat, and makes the flavors pop. The finishing touch will make people ask, “What’s your secret?”
Perfect for Leftovers
Let’s face it: leftovers can be hit or miss, but this soup? It’s a leftover superstar. The flavors improve as they sit, meaning the soup you enjoy on day two (or three) might taste even better than the first bowl.
Because it’s loaded with rice and chicken, it keeps well in the fridge without getting mushy. Store it in an airtight container, and you’re ready to eat. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or microwave. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
Pro tip: If you plan to freeze some, try storing the rice separately. That way, you can keep the soup’s texture when reheating. This makes it a perfect meal prep option, whether cooking for the week or stocking up your freezer for quick dinners.
Meal Prep Hero
We’ve all been there—weeknights get busy, and dinner feels like a chore. This Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice saves the day. Not only does it come together quickly, but it’s also easy to double the recipe so you can have meals ready to go.
Making a big batch means you can pack up individual servings for lunches or freeze portions for later. And here’s the best part: because this soup is so versatile, you can tweak it each time you reheat it. One night, add some fresh cilantro and jalapeños for an extra kick. To mix things up on another night, serve it with cornbread or tortilla chips.
This soup is like a little safety net for dinner time. It’s comforting, filling, and pairs well with just about anything, from a light salad to a cheesy quesadilla.
Busy weeknights are no match for this recipe. It’s quick to prepare, easy to double for meal prep, and versatile for varied toppings. Pair it with a side dish like cornbread or Rice to Soup, and Avoid a Mushy Mess for an extra treat.
Pro Tips
Making this recipe is easy, but these little tricks will take your soup game to the next level:
Choose Your Rice Wisely
Rice might seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference. If you love fluffy, aromatic rice, go for jasmine or basmati. Both soak up the flavors beautifully while holding their texture.
Do you prefer something heartier? Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more chew. And if you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works surprisingly well. Just stir it in at the end so it doesn’t overcook.
Amp Up the Spice
This soup has a nice, moderate heat level, but if you like it hot, you can add extra cayenne, a splash of your favorite hot sauce, or sliced fresh jalapeños.
If you’re cooking for spice-sensitive eaters, start mild and let everyone customize their bowl. Keep hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or spicy toppings like chipotle crema on the side.
Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice is its easy customization. Think of it as a base on which to build. Want to sneak in more veggies? Add corn, zucchini, or even spinach.
Craving a little crunch? Top your bowl with tortilla chips or toasted pumpkin seeds. And if you’re a fan of creamy soups, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of coconut milk. This recipe is like a blank canvas. You can get creative and make it your own.
With these tips, you can serve a delicious soup tailored to your taste. Whether cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.
FAQs
Can I add rice directly to the soup?
Yes, you can add uncooked rice directly to soup, but there are a few things to remember. The rice will absorb much liquid as it cooks, so you may need to add extra broth or water to maintain the soup’s consistency. Adding the rice during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking is also a good idea to prevent it from overcooking and becoming mushy. If you’re using pre-cooked rice, stir it in at the end to warm it up.
What is a spicy Mexican soup made from?
A classic spicy Mexican soup, like Caldo de Pollo or Caldo Tlalpeño, is typically made with chicken, a flavorful broth, and vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and potatoes. The spice often comes from chipotle peppers, jalapeños, or chili powder. Some versions include rice, hominy, or beans to make it heartier. It’s usually served with lime wedges, avocado, and fresh cilantro for added flavor.
What kind of rice is best for soup?
The best rice for soup depends on the texture you prefer:
Long-grain rice (like jasmine or basmati) stays fluffy and separate, making it ideal for brothy soups.
Short-grain rice (like Arborio) adds a creamy texture, which works well in thicker soups.
Brown rice provides a nutty flavor and holds up well without getting mushy.
For a healthier or low-carb option, you can use cauliflower rice, which mimics the texture of rice without the starch.
How do you keep rice from expanding in soup?
Rice absorbs liquid even after the soup is cooked, expanding and thickening over time. To prevent this, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to individual servings before eating. Alternatively, use less rice or add more broth when reheating leftovers to restore the soup’s original consistency.
Should you rinse rice before adding it to the soup?
Rinsing rice before adding it to soup is a good idea. This removes excess starch, making the soup cloudy and overly thick. It also helps prevent the rice from clumping together as it cooks. Just rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear, then drain it well before adding it to the pot.
Is it reasonable to mix rice with soup?
Absolutely! Mixing rice with soup creates a hearty and filling dish. The rice soaks up the flavors of the broth, making each bite extra tasty. This technique is especially significant in recipes like this Chopt spicy chicken soup with rice, where the rice perfectly complements the spicy and smoky flavors. Whether you use white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice, it adds texture and makes the soup more satisfying.
Serving Ideas
This soup is fantastic on its own, but if you’re looking to pair it with something, here are a few ideas:
- Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly, it balances the spice perfectly.
- Grilled Cheese Because soup and melty sandwiches are a match made in heaven.
- Taco Night Sides: Serve with chips and guacamole for a Tex-Mex twist.
A Little Backstory
The first time I made this soup, I was trying to recreate the magic of Chopt’s version at home. Let’s just say it was a hit. My family devoured it, and now it’s in regular rotation. Even my picky eater (a.k.a. my husband) couldn’t stop raving about it. If that’s not a win, I don’t know what is!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a spicy, hearty, and downright comforting bowl, this Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup with rice is exactly what you need. Inspired by the fan-favorite recipe, this dish is easy to make, loaded with bold flavors, and perfect for sharing with a crowd—or keeping all to yourself (no judgment here).
This homemade Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup recipe brings the restaurant-quality taste you love straight to your kitchen. Feel free to get creative with toppings or tweak the spice level to suit your preferences. The possibilities are endless, whether you’re a fan of extra jalapeños or a splash of creaminess from coconut milk.
Please see this Chopt Spicy Chicken Sry and let me know how it turns out! If you have any fun additions or unique displeasures, please comment below. Happy cooking, everyone!
