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This BBQ chicken soup brings together tender pieces of chicken with smoky barbecue sauce and a colorful mix of vegetables and beans for a cozy meal any night of the week. It fills you up and warms you through without feeling heavy or complicated.
I remember making this after a busy day when I wanted something comforting but easy. It quickly became a favorite for chilly evenings and casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- Olive oil divided: for cooking and building layers of flavor
- Chicken breast: cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking
- Garlic powder: lends mild savory depth
- Smoked paprika: gives the soup its signature smoky warmth fresh spices really make a difference here
- Dried oregano: provides an herbal note balancing the BBQ sauce
- Salt and black pepper: for seasoning
- Onion, carrot, and red bell pepper: diced to soften and sweeten the base
- Fresh garlic: adds aromatic punch
- BBQ sauce: is the star adding sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors choose a brand you love as it defines the soup
- Pinto beans: for creaminess and fiber rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium
- Sweetcorn: adds a pop of sweetness and texture
- Chicken stock: for a flavorful broth
- Fresh parsley: chopped fine to finish with brightness
Instructions
- Build The Chicken:
- Toss chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This seasoning mix infuses flavor into the chicken right away.
- Brown The Chicken:
- Heat one tablespoon olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides. Browning adds caramelized flavor and locks in juices. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté The Vegetables:
- Add the remaining olive oil to the pot. Toss in onion, carrot, and red bell pepper. Cook for about five minutes or until the vegetables have softened and started to sweeten. This creates a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Garlic releases its aroma quickly and layering it here builds depth.
- Combine Chicken And BBQ Sauce:
- Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to coat everything well. This melds the smoky heat of the spices with the tangy sweetness of the sauce.
- Add Beans Corn And Stock:
- Pour in the rinsed pinto beans, sweetcorn, and chicken stock. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 10 minutes so the flavors meld and chicken finishes cooking through.
- Finish With Parsley And Seasoning:
- Stir in fresh parsley to brighten the soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, optionally topped with extra fresh herbs or chopped red onion for crunch.
BBQ sauce is my favorite ingredient here because it ties the whole soup together with a perfect balance of smoky sweetness. This recipe reminds me of family nights where everyone gathers around bowls of this hearty soup, passing around extra hot sauce and fresh chopped herbs.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of stock or water if it’s too thick.
Ingredient Swaps
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for more richness. You can swap pinto beans for black beans or kidney beans depending on what you have. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with extra beans and use vegetable stock.
Serving Ideas
Serve with warm crusty bread or over cooked rice for an extra filling meal. A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt can add creaminess and cut through the smoky flavors.
This BBQ chicken soup is both comforting and easy to make, perfect for any night of the week.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken is best for this soup?
Chicken breast works well as it cooks evenly and remains tender when simmered in the broth.
- → Can I use homemade BBQ sauce instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade BBQ sauce can add a personalized flavor and adjust sweetness or smokiness to your liking.
- → How do the beans and sweetcorn affect the soup texture?
Pinto beans and sweetcorn add creaminess and slight sweetness while offering a pleasant balance to the tender chicken and smoky sauce.
- → What is a good spice addition for more heat?
Adding cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños can introduce a gentle kick that complements the smoky flavors.
- → How do I best reheat leftovers without losing flavor?
Gently warm the soup on low heat, stirring occasionally to preserve tenderness and prevent the BBQ sauce from separating.
- → Can I substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock?
Yes, vegetable stock will maintain the soup’s depth while keeping it lighter and suitable for different dietary preferences.