Chili’s Copycat Southwest Chicken Soup: A Healthy, Hearty One-Pot Comfort Meal

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening, especially one that brings the familiar taste of your favorite restaurant right to your kitchen. This copycat recipe for Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup delivers exactly that – a wonderfully creamy, protein-packed, and intensely flavorful soup that’s incredibly easy to make. For those of you who have followed our culinary adventures, you know our passion for recreating beloved restaurant classics at home. We enjoy the challenge of taking iconic dishes and making them accessible, often healthier, and always with our unique twist, without sacrificing that unforgettable taste.

This vibrant Southwest Chicken Soup is a testament to that philosophy. Crafted primarily in a single pot, it streamlines your cooking and minimizes cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. It’s brimming with tender shredded chicken, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, aromatic onions, unique hominy, and even a hint of tortilla to thicken and enrich the broth. The flavor profile is a delightful fusion of bright, tangy notes with a perfect amount of warmth from chili powder and other Southwestern spices, creating an ultimate comfort food experience that’s both satisfying and surprisingly light. It’s the perfect antidote to a cold night, warming you from the inside out.

Why This Copycat Southwest Chicken Soup Will Be Your New Favorite

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines exceptional taste with practical benefits, this Southwest Chicken Soup is an absolute must-try. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation:

• Unbelievably Delicious: This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a symphony of robust, Southwestern-inspired flavors that will awaken your taste buds. Made with a thoughtful blend of succulent chicken, sweet diced tomatoes, hearty hominy, and a careful selection of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano, every spoonful offers a complex and satisfying experience. Its bright, spicy, and subtly creamy texture creates a truly comforting dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table and quickly become a new favorite in your household.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: Simplicity is key in modern cooking, and this recipe excels in that regard. Designed as a one-pot wonder, it significantly cuts down on prep time and, more importantly, cleanup. All ingredients come together in a single pot, allowing flavors to meld beautifully without the hassle of multiple dishes. This makes it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal but are short on time.
• Highly Versatile and Adaptable: One of the greatest advantages of cooking at home is the freedom to customize, and this soup is incredibly forgiving. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t like too much heat? Reduce the chili powder or opt for a milder alternative. Want more veggies? Feel free to toss in bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. The core recipe provides a fantastic base that you can personalize to make it uniquely yours, ensuring it always hits the spot.
• A Healthy and Wholesome Choice: In addition to being delicious and easy, this soup is packed with nutritional benefits. It’s an excellent source of lean protein from the chicken, essential carbohydrates from the hominy, and beneficial fiber from the vegetables. Furthermore, it delivers a good dose of vitamins, particularly A and C, contributing to a well-balanced and nourishing meal. It’s a hearty option that supports your health goals without compromising on taste, making it a truly guilt-free indulgence.

What is Hominy?

For those unfamiliar, hominy is a fascinating and flavorful ingredient deeply rooted in traditional Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. It’s essentially dried corn kernels that have undergone a process called nixtamalization, where they are treated with an alkaline solution, typically lime (calcium hydroxide) or lye. This traditional process removes the outer hull and germ of the corn, making the kernels significantly more tender, plumper, and easier to digest. Nixtamalization also enhances the nutritional value of the corn, making niacin (Vitamin B3) more bioavailable, and improving the protein quality. The distinct, slightly chewy texture and earthy flavor of hominy add a wonderful depth to this Southwest Chicken Soup.

If you can’t find hominy at your local grocery store, don’t worry! You can easily substitute it with other ingredients. Canned sweet corn or even white beans like cannellini or great northern beans make excellent alternatives, offering a similar texture and a different, yet complementary, flavor profile to the soup.

Elevate Your Bowl: Low-Calorie Toppings for Southwest Chicken Soup

No soup is complete without the perfect toppings, and this Southwest Chicken Soup is no exception. To enhance flavor and texture without adding excessive calories, consider these delicious options:

• Puffed Corn Tortillas: For a delightful crunch, skip the fried tortillas and opt for puffed corn tortillas. You can easily make these by quickly heating corn tortillas in the microwave until they puff up, or by baking them in the oven until crispy. They provide that satisfying texture contrast without the added oil.
• Vegetable Chips: Instead of traditional corn chips, try vegetable chips made from thinly sliced carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. You can bake or air-fry these until crisp for a healthier, nutrient-dense topping that adds both flavor and visual appeal.
• Fresh Cheese: A sprinkle of fresh, crumbled cheese can add a creamy richness and tangy flavor to your soup. Opt for low-fat options like cotija, queso fresco, or a light goat cheese for a delicious touch without piling on extra calories.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a powerhouse of flavor in Southwestern cuisine. A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro not only adds a burst of vibrant green color but also a refreshing, aromatic zest that brightens up every spoonful.
• Low-Fat Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For that signature creamy swirl, a dollop of low-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt is an excellent choice. It provides a cool, tangy counterpoint to the soup’s warmth and spice, enhancing its rich texture without a heavy calorie count.
• Hot Sauce: If you love an extra kick, a dash or two of your favorite hot sauce is a fantastic way to boost the flavor without adding any significant calories. Choose a mild or spicier variety based on your preference for an individualized heat level.

Servings: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

1 WW point per serving (Weight Watchers friendly).

Gather Your Ingredients: Simple & Flavorful

Crafting this delicious Southwest Chicken Soup requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic Chili’s taste with a homemade touch.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped, (approx. 100 g.)
• 2 small celery stalks, chopped, (approx. 40 g.)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed, (approx. 450 g.)
• 1 cup white corn (Hominy), drained and rinsed, (approx. 160 g.)
• 250 g. (about 1 cup) of cooked shredded chicken
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Southwest Chicken Soup

Follow these simple steps to create a hearty and flavorful Southwest Chicken Soup that tastes just like the restaurant original.

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become translucent, releasing their fragrant aromas. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
2. Bloom the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano into the sautéed vegetables. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly. This step, known as “blooming” the spices, helps to release their full flavor and aroma, deepening the complexity of the soup.
3. Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, followed by the drained and rinsed diced tomatoes, hominy (or corn), and the shredded chicken. Add about half of the fresh cilantro at this stage; the rest will be used for garnish. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the vegetables are perfectly tender.
4. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your preference. If desired, you can stir in a splash of lime juice for extra brightness. Remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro and any of your preferred low-calorie toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Customizing Your Soup: Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Southwest Chicken Soup is how adaptable it is. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your taste or dietary needs:

• For a Smoky Flavor: Instead of plain shredded chicken, consider using pre-cooked roasted chicken or even a rotisserie chicken. The smoky notes will add another layer of complexity to the soup, mimicking the depth of slow-cooked flavors.
• Sweeter Corn Options: If you prefer a sweeter taste or can’t find hominy, sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) is an excellent substitute. It will provide a lovely pop of natural sweetness and a slightly different texture that is equally delicious.
• Add More Hearty Ingredients: Enhance the soup’s substance and flavor by incorporating other classic Southwestern ingredients. Black beans or red kidney beans, drained and rinsed, are fantastic additions for extra protein and fiber. Diced green chilies can be added with the tomatoes for an extra kick and authentic flavor. Fresh lime juice at the end brightens the entire dish. And for a richer finish, a sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese or a dollop of regular sour cream can be stirred in just before serving (though these would increase the calorie count).
• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can boost the protein with extra beans (black, pinto, or kidney) or add plant-based chicken substitutes.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Southwest Chicken Soup

Mastering this delicious soup is easy with a few extra pointers. These tips will help you save time, enhance flavor, and even plan ahead:

Use a Slow Cooker for Hands-Off Cooking: This recipe is incredibly adaptable for a slow cooker, making it perfect for meal prepping or busy days. Simply combine all ingredients (except for a portion of the fresh cilantro for garnish) in your slow cooker in the morning. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The long, slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen beautifully, resulting in an even more robust and comforting soup when you return home.

Leverage Canned Ingredients for Convenience: Don’t hesitate to use canned diced tomatoes and canned hominy. These pantry staples are convenient and just as flavorful as their fresh counterparts, significantly cutting down on preparation time. Always remember to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding to the pot to remove excess sodium and preserve the soup’s intended flavor profile.

Customize with Your Favorite Vegetables: While the core recipe is fantastic, feel free to add other vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor. Diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), zucchini, thinly sliced carrots, or even small potato cubes can be added with the onions and celery. This is a wonderful way to use up any vegetables you have on hand and make the soup uniquely yours.

Meal Prep & Freezing: This soup is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. Make a large batch and store individual portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Adjust Spice Levels: The chili powder provides a mild to medium heat. If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat) along with the other aromatics. For a milder version, you can slightly reduce the amount of chili powder.

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Southwest Chicken Soup

Servings:
6

Prep:

15 mins

Cook:

30 mins

Total:

45 mins

A lightened-up copycat recipe of Chili’s creamy Southwest Chicken Soup, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped, 100 g.
• 2 celery stalks, small, chopped, 40 g.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups can diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed, 450 g.
• 1 cup Hominy white corn, drained and rinsed, 160 g.
• 250 g. of shredded chicken
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, and oregano and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly to release their aromas.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, hominy (or corn), shredded chicken, and about half of the fresh cilantro. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors have fully developed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat, ladle into bowls, and garnish with remaining fresh cilantro and your preferred toppings. Serve hot.

Notes

This recipe is Weight Watchers friendly, with 1 WW point per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 427g
Calories: 122kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 3.6g
Saturated Fat: 0.4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 530mg
Potassium: 209mg
Fiber: 2.7g
Sugar: 3.7g
Calcium: 15mg
Iron: 0.6mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course:
Soups

Cuisine:
Mexican

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This copycat Chili’s Southwest Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to bring the warmth and vibrant flavors of a restaurant favorite into your home, made even better with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal, a comforting dish for a cold evening, or a delicious way to incorporate more protein and vegetables into your diet, this one-pot wonder is sure to exceed your expectations. Its ease of preparation, versatility, and undeniable deliciousness make it a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and prepare to savor a bowl of pure Southwestern comfort!