But I am going to make a soup that we both really like. Actually it's a chicken chili. Having traveled over most of the U.S. I've learned one thing about chili-it's not the same wherever you go. No, it's like pizza or clam chowder or hot dogs, a very regional dish. In some places chili is a "soup" and in some places chili is a, well, "not soup." I'm going to make my version of chicken chili "soup" but it can be easily adapted to be the other. And since this recipe makes a family size pot and I am here by myself, I will add that most of this soup will go into the crockpot in the morning for after church services. It really is better the second day!
Chicken Chili
Ingredients:
1 pound of shredded cooked chicken. I use the roasted laying hens that were too tough for frying.
1 quart chicken broth. This also comes from the old hens.
2 or 3 (15 or 16 oz) cans of white beans. This depends on how many servings you want.
Water to taste. Depending on the richness of the broth, it might need tamed down with a cup (or four) of water.
And the most important ingredient:
Ok, ok, I know it's a (gasp) processed food. So it's my dirty little secret. I've tried to replicate it. I've tried other brands. There is just something about this combination of seasonings that makes the perfect chicken chili. I also use it to make chicken enchiladas and Mexican casseroles that have chicken in them. Sooo shoot me. Just promise me you will never use the chili directions on the back of the package. Ewwww.
To make the chili:
Put chicken, broth, and beans in soup pot. Heat to almost boiling. Add seasoning packet and stir to dissolve well. Add water to taste. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will combine. We like to add crushed tortilla chips and sour cream as a topping. Yum!
