Craving something warm, hearty, and packed with bold flavors? Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice is the ultimate comfort food that blends savory spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice in a rich, flavorful broth. Inspired by the popular Chopt Creative Salad Co. recipe, this homemade version lets you bring restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll guide you step by step—from gathering the right ingredients to simmering the perfect pot of spicy chicken and rice soup. You’ll also learn how to customize the recipe to suit your taste, with tips for adjusting the spice level and incorporating fun add-ins like black beans and corn. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this soup is bound to be a favorite.
Now, let’s dive in and start with what makes this recipe such a hit!
Article Summary
Introduction to Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup with Rice
Why This Recipe is Popular
Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice has become a go-to comfort dish for many, thanks to its hearty, nutritious, and bold flavors. Unlike traditional chicken soup, this version incorporates vibrant spices and a hint of heat that warms you from the inside out. The combination of protein-packed chicken and filling rice makes it a full, satisfying meal—no side dishes required!
This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily tweak the ingredients to match your spice tolerance or dietary preferences. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, as the flavors intensify beautifully when reheated.
What Makes It Unique
So, what sets this soup apart from other chicken soups? It’s the bold flavors and rich texture. Instead of a plain broth, this soup boasts a blend of cumin, paprika, and chili powder, creating a slightly smoky, spicy base. The addition of diced tomatoes and chili paste adds extra depth, while fresh lime and cilantro provide a burst of brightness.
It’s more than just soup—it’s a flavor explosion in every spoonful.
Origins and Inspiration from Chopt Creative Salad Co.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from the fan-favorite spicy chicken soup at Chopt Creative Salad Co. This fast-casual chain is known for its healthy yet indulgent salads and soups, and their spicy chicken soup consistently tops the list. Now, you can recreate the magic at home using simple, everyday ingredients.
By following this guide, you’ll capture the essence of Chopt’s famous recipe while putting your unique twist on it. Let’s move on to the essential ingredients that bring this dish to life.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essential Ingredients for Spicy Chicken and Rice Soup
To make the best Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice, gathering the right ingredients is key. This dish relies on a mix of fresh vegetables, hearty proteins, and bold spices. The base of the soup is simple, but each ingredient adds a layer of flavor, making the final product rich and satisfying.
You’ll need:
- Chicken – 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or leftover rotisserie chicken
- Rice – 1 cup of cooked white or brown rice
- Chicken Broth – 4 cups (low-sodium works best to control the salt level)
- Vegetables – 1 onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks (all diced)
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced for extra depth
- Tomatoes – 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- Chili Paste or Hot Sauce – 1-2 tablespoons, depending on how spicy you like it
The best part? These are everyday pantry staples, making it super easy to whip up this soup on a whim.
Best Types of Rice to Use
Rice is a crucial component, but not all rice behaves the same way in soups. Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice works best with long-grain white rice, but you can easily substitute it with brown or wild rice for a nuttier taste.
Quick Tip: Cook the rice separately and add it to the soup right before serving. This prevents the rice from soaking up too much broth and becoming mushy.
Spices and Seasonings for Bold Flavors
Spices are what set this dish apart from ordinary chicken soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cumin – 1 tsp for warmth and earthiness
- Paprika – 1 tsp for a smoky undertone
- Chili Powder – 1 tsp for added heat
- Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
- Fresh Cilantro – for garnishing
- Lime Juice – 1 tbsp for brightness and balance
These spices meld beautifully, creating a broth that’s rich, aromatic, and slightly spicy—exactly what you’d expect from a Chopt-inspired soup.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor and Nutrition
Want to elevate the soup even more? Consider these add-ins:
- Black Beans – 1 cup (canned and rinsed) for extra protein
- Corn – 1 cup (fresh or frozen) to add sweetness and crunch
- Avocado – slices for creaminess when serving
- Tortilla Chips – crushed on top for texture
These optional ingredients enhance the nutritional value, making the soup not only tasty but also wholesome.
Preparing the Base of the Soup
Cooking the Rice – Steps and Tips
Cooking the rice ahead of time is crucial for the best texture. Follow these simple steps:
- Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Fluff with a fork once done.
- Set the rice aside and cover it to keep warm.
By preparing the rice separately, you’ll avoid having it break down in the soup, maintaining that perfect bite.
Chopping and Preparing Vegetables
Next, let’s prep the vegetables. This part of the Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice adds both nutrition and flavor. Dice 1 onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks into small, uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the broth.
Mince 4 cloves of garlic—this is a must for enhancing the savory profile of the soup.
Pro Tip: The smaller you chop the vegetables, the faster they cook.
Seasoning and Prepping the Chicken
Before cooking, season the chicken breasts with a mix of salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. This step locks in the flavor and ensures the chicken is well-coated in spices before it even hits the pot.
If you’re using rotisserie chicken, skip the seasoning but have it shredded and ready to toss into the pot later.
Why Toasting Spices is Key to Flavor
One of the secrets to the deep, rich flavor of this soup lies in toasting the spices. After sautéing the vegetables, sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Let the spices bloom by stirring them for 30 seconds to 1 minute. This technique intensifies their flavors, creating a more robust and aromatic base.
Toasting the spices is a simple step but makes all the difference in the final taste of your Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice.
Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables
Searing the Chicken – Techniques for Perfect Browning
The secret to developing deep, rich flavors in this Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice starts with searing the chicken. Heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a drizzle of olive oil creates the perfect base for browning the chicken.
Once the oil shimmers, place the seasoned chicken breasts into the pot. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side. This process not only locks in the juices but also builds up those flavorful brown bits at the bottom of the pot—golden goodness that enhances the broth later.
After searing, transfer the chicken to a plate, but don’t wash the pot! You’ll use the same pot to sauté the vegetables, keeping all that flavor intact.
Sautéing the Vegetables for Depth of Flavor
In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir frequently, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb the residual flavors from the chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
Now, stir in the minced garlic. Garlic burns quickly, so let it cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma alone will tell you it’s time to add the spices.
Adding Liquids – Broth, Tomatoes, and Spicy Elements
Once the vegetables are sautéed, it’s time to bring the soup together. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Stir continuously, toasting the spices for about 1 minute.
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, making sure to scrape up the brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—this step adds incredible flavor to the broth. Add the diced tomatoes and chili paste, stirring to combine everything thoroughly.
Finally, return the seared chicken to the pot. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and allow the soup to cook for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Final Steps – Assembling the Soup
Shredding the Cooked Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to cool slightly. Then, using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the simmering broth. This adds tender, juicy chicken throughout the soup.
Incorporating Cooked Rice
Now that the chicken is back in the pot, it’s time to add the rice. Spoon in the pre-cooked rice, stirring gently to distribute it evenly. The rice soaks up the flavorful broth, enhancing every bite with rich, spicy goodness.
Remember—since the rice was cooked separately, it won’t overcook or break down, ensuring the perfect texture in each bowl.
Adding Optional Black Beans and Corn
For extra texture and protein, toss in 1 cup of black beans and 1 cup of corn (fresh or frozen). This not only bulks up the soup but adds layers of flavor and color, creating a more visually appealing and hearty dish.
Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the added ingredients to mingle and meld with the rest of the flavors.
Adjusting the Spice and Seasoning
Before serving, give the soup a final taste test. If it needs more heat, stir in an additional tablespoon of chili paste. Add salt and black pepper to balance the flavors.
For an extra kick, squeeze in a bit of fresh lime juice. The citrus brightens the broth, cutting through the richness of the spices.
For more delicious soup ideas, check out this Carrabba’s Chicken Soup Recipe on Sarra Recipes. It’s another hearty, comforting option perfect for any season.
Serving and Presentation
Garnishing with Fresh Herbs and Lime
Presentation matters just as much as flavor when it comes to making the perfect Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice. A few simple garnishes can elevate the soup, adding both color and freshness.
Once the soup is ladled into bowls, sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped cilantro over the top. This bright herb adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor. For a zesty twist, squeeze a wedge of lime over each serving. Lime juice not only balances the spices but also provides a refreshing contrast to the heat.
Pro Tip: Adding avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream can tone down the heat for those who prefer a milder soup.
Adding Creaminess with Avocado or Sour Cream
For extra richness, top each bowl with a few slices of ripe avocado. The creaminess of avocado pairs perfectly with the bold, spicy broth, making the soup even more satisfying. If avocado isn’t your thing, a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt will do the trick.
These creamy toppings not only enhance flavor but also create a visually appealing contrast, especially when paired with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips.
Pairing with Bread, Chips, or Side Dishes
A warm, hearty soup like this one often pairs best with simple sides. Serve it with crusty bread, homemade dinner rolls, or even tortilla chips for dipping. The crunch adds a pleasant texture that complements the soft rice and tender chicken.
If you’re in the mood for something light, consider pairing the soup with a simple side salad. The combination makes for a well-rounded and filling meal.
For more side dish ideas, check out this dinner roll recipe with no yeast, which pairs wonderfully with soups and stews.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Storing Leftovers – How Long Does It Last?
The beauty of Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice is that it stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. After the soup has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
If you plan to enjoy the soup later, store the rice separately. This prevents the rice from soaking up all the broth and becoming too soft.
Freezing for Later Use
This soup also freezes well, which is great if you love batch cooking. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the original consistency.
Pro Tip: Freeze the soup in individual portions for quick, easy meals during busy weekdays.
Reheating Without Losing Flavor
When reheating, avoid bringing the soup to a rolling boil, as this can break down the chicken and rice. Instead, gently warm the soup over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally.
If the soup has thickened too much during storage, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water. This will help restore the balance between the broth, rice, and vegetables.
FAQs – Common Questions About Chopt Spicy Chicken Soup with Rice
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice is its flexibility. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken sitting in the fridge, don’t let it go to waste. Simply shred or dice the leftover chicken and add it during the final simmering stage.
This not only saves time but also enhances the soup by adding richer, pre-seasoned flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to clear out leftovers while creating a hearty meal.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level to Make It Milder or Hotter?
Customizing the spice level is easy. If you prefer a milder version of the Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice, reduce the chili powder and chili paste by half. You can always add more heat later with hot sauce or fresh jalapeño slices.
On the flip side, if you love bold, fiery flavors, crank up the heat by adding extra chili paste, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes. A small dash of hot sauce right before serving can also provide that extra kick.
What Are the Best Substitutes for Rice or Chicken?
If rice isn’t your thing, swap it out for quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice. These alternatives add unique textures and make the dish gluten-free if necessary. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice.
For the chicken, turkey or even tofu works well. Tofu absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully and creates a vegetarian-friendly option. Just add firm tofu cubes toward the end of cooking to avoid over-softening.
Is This Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and double-check the chili paste or hot sauce for gluten-free labels, this Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice is naturally gluten-free. It’s a fantastic dish for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
How Can I Make It Thicker or Brothier?
If you prefer a thicker soup, add less broth or let the soup simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. Adding a can of black beans or pureeing a portion of the soup can also thicken the consistency.
For a brothier version, simply add an extra cup of chicken broth or water. This is a great way to stretch the soup if you’re feeding a crowd or preparing extra portions for leftovers.
Final Thoughts and Reader Engagement
Encouragement to Experiment with Add-Ins
The Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice is more than just a meal—it’s a canvas for creativity. Don’t be afraid to throw in extra ingredients like sweet potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers. Experimenting with add-ins can make the soup even more vibrant and nutrient-packed.
Try different garnishes, swap spices, or adjust the heat level to match your cravings. This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for anyone looking for variety in their weekly meals.
Invite Readers to Comment, Rate, and Share Their Results
If you’ve tried this Chopt spicy chicken soup recipe with rice, we’d love to hear from you! Share your experience in the comments below, and let us know if you made any unique tweaks. Your feedback helps other readers and adds even more inspiration to this recipe.
Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with friends and family. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a hearty lunch for the week, this spicy chicken soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.