Chicken Tomatillo Soup is a zesty and flavorful dish that combines the bright, tangy flavor of tomatillos with tender chicken and a savory broth. This comforting soup is perfect for any time of the year and is a great way to enjoy Mexican-inspired flavors. The combination of roasted tomatillos, garlic, onions, and spices creates a rich and vibrant broth that pairs beautifully with shredded chicken. Serve it with toppings like avocado, tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness and crunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped (optional, for heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
Toppings (optional):
- Sliced avocado
- Tortilla chips or strips
- Fresh cilantro
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, queso fresco, or Monterey Jack)
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Roast the tomatillos: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the tomatillos on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, until they are softened and slightly charred. Set aside to cool slightly, then blend or pulse the tomatillos in a blender or food processor until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Once cooled, shred the chicken with two forks.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the soup base: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the blended tomatillos and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the shredded chicken: Stir the shredded chicken into the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Finish the soup: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or lime juice.
- Serve: Ladle the Chicken Tomatillo Soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as avocado, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
This Chicken Tomatillo Soup is bursting with tangy, fresh flavors, making it a perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a light, flavorful lunch. Enjoy it with all your favorite toppings for a delicious, customizable meal!
