This was (and still is) one of my favorite soups my mom would make growing up. During our Pacific NorthWest Winters, I’d leave for school before the sun came up, and because of sports, often come home after the sun had already come back down. If there was one thing to put some life back in my tired step despite the forever dark Washington Winter, it was this soup paired with about 8 home made rolls. (The only person I’ve ever met to out-eat me in a bread eating competition is my husband, Justin. He once ate 14 breadsticks at Olive Garden. He’s my hero.)

But with all nostalgia aside: This soup rocks. You can serve it on it’s own or pair it with some mouthwatering home made rolls, or some crushed up tortilla chips and call it chicken taco soup. I don’t care what you call it or what you eat it with – just get this soup in your belly. STAT.

My mom traditionally mixes sour cream into the entire pot – but some people don’t like sour cream as much as others… cough. So I left it out of this recipe. But feel free to add a dollop to tame the heat of the dish. It’s not overly spicy, but it does have a little kick without some added dairy.
Also check out the meal prep instructions if you want to make this soup ahead of time. And if you’re low on cash and want to make the meal stretch, try serving the soup over some rice or a baked potato. But be forewarned that this recipe feeds a lot of people; approximately 8 large bowls worth. So make it for the family or be ready to have some left overs.