Creamy, Spicy Chicken Soup with Crispy Tot Topping
Forget everything you thought you knew about soup! This isn't your grandma's chicken noodle. We're talking a creamy, dreamy white chicken soup kicked up with a little spice and the ultimate crunchy topping: seasoned tater tots.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
Imagine tender chicken, hearty white beans, and a touch of green chili heat, all enveloped in a velvety smooth soup. Now, picture that perfect spoonful enhanced with the golden, crispity bite of a perfectly cooked tater tot. It's a textural masterpiece and a flavor explosion in every bite!
This soup is weeknight easy, meaning you can enjoy gourmet-level comfort without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave something delicious and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Unexpectedly Delicious: The combination of creamy soup and crispy tots is a revelation.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking and use your favorite toppings.
- Comfort Food Bliss: This soup is the definition of cozy and satisfying.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Two 4-oz cans diced green chiles
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- One 15-oz can white beans, drained
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water
For the Toppings:
- 1 bag frozen seasoned tater tots
- Chopped cilantro and green onion
- Hot sauce, to taste
Let's Get Cooking!
- Prep the Tots: Follow package directions to cook the tater tots until golden and crispy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the avocado oil in a large pot or dutch oven. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Spice it Up: Stir in the green chiles, salt, cumin, and oregano. Cook for about a minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the white beans, shredded chicken, chicken broth, sour cream, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the Soup: Stir in the cornstarch slurry. Simmer until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy tater tots, fresh cilantro, green onion, and a drizzle of hot sauce.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chiles and hot sauce to your desired heat level.
- Tots: Feel free to use your favorite brand and style of tater tots. You can also try other toppings like shredded cheese or crispy bacon.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken for extra beans, or a plant-based chicken substitute.
- Make it Healthier: Instead of heavy cream, use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute, and adjust the amount of cheese added on top.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful soup! It's perfect for a chilly evening or any time you need a little culinary hug.