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Spicy Chicken Soup

This spicy chicken soup combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and bold spices to create a comforting yet fiery dish. The soup is simmered until flavorful and finished with fresh herbs and lemon for brightness, resulting in a warm, slightly oily broth with tender meat and vibrant aroma.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces chicken breasts or thighs diced
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 4 cups chicken broth rich and savory
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • fresh herbs to taste cilantro or parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon oil for sautéing

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients: diced chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, spices, broth, lemon, and herbs.
  2. Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent and fragrant, with a slight golden hue.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until it releases a rich aroma.
  5. Add diced chicken to the pot, cooking for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat turns golden around the edges and is cooked through.
  6. Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper, stirring well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly with the spices.
  7. Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the broth to slightly thicken.
  8. Taste the soup and adjust salt or spice levels if needed. Add a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick.
  9. Turn off the heat and stir in fresh lemon juice for brightness, then garnish with chopped herbs.
  10. Serve hot, with a vibrant aroma and tender chicken pieces floating in a slightly oily, spicy broth.