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This ultra-comforting soup blends creamy white chicken chili with bold spices and crispy seasoned tater tots on top. It's weeknight magic that tastes like it took hours but comes together in just 30 minutes. The contrast between the spicy, creamy soup and the crispy tots creates the ultimate comfort food experience.
I created this recipe during a particularly harsh winter when my family needed something beyond ordinary chicken soup. The seasoned tots were initially a random addition when I had nothing else in the freezer, but they became the non-negotiable topping that everyone now demands.
- Olive oil or avocado oil: Provides the base for sautéing without overwhelming the flavors
- Yellow onion: Creates the aromatic foundation look for firm onions without soft spots
- Garlic cloves: Fresh is best as it provides more vibrant flavor than pre-minced
- Canned diced green chiles: Bring mild heat and authentic southwestern flavor
- Ground cumin: Adds earthy warmth that defines the character of this soup
- Dried oregano: Brings a subtle herbaceous note that complements the beans
- White beans: Provide creamy texture and protein choose cannellini for the creamiest result
- Shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves tremendous time and adds rich flavor
- Chicken broth: Forms the liquid base use low sodium to control salt levels
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and creamy body choose full fat for best results
- Heavy cream: Creates luxurious richness and helps mellow the spices
- Frozen seasoned tater tots: The magical topping select a well-seasoned variety
- Fresh cilantro: Brightens the final dish look for vibrant green bunches
- Green onions: Add fresh zip and color both white and green parts work beautifully
- Hot sauce: Allows everyone to customize their heat level
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bake the Tots:
- Arrange seasoned tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until they develop a deep golden crust and crispy exterior. Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning. The tots should finish cooking right as your soup is ready.
- Create the Aromatic Base:
- Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until it shimmers. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions turn translucent and develop a slight golden edge. Add minced garlic and cook for exactly one minute until fragrant but not browned. Watch carefully as garlic burns quickly.
- Develop the Flavor Foundation:
- Add green chiles, cumin, oregano, and salt to the pot. Stir continuously for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their essential oils. This critical step creates depth of flavor that defines the entire soup. You should smell a rich, aromatic scent rising from the pot.
- Build the Soup Body:
- Add white beans, shredded chicken, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients without breaking down the beans. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Avoid boiling which can toughen the chicken. Allow flavors to meld for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Create Creamy Texture:
- Reduce heat to low. Add sour cream and heavy cream, stirring constantly until fully incorporated. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth, then stir into the simmering soup. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the soup reaches your desired thickness.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into deep bowls, filling about three-quarters full. Top generously with crispy seasoned tots, arranging them in a single layer. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Serve hot sauce on the side for individual heat preferences.
The diced green chiles are my secret weapon in this recipe. While they might seem modest, they provide the perfect balance of flavor and heat without overwhelming the dish. My grandmother first taught me to use them in white chicken recipes, and I've never looked back. They remind me of Sunday dinners at her kitchen table where comfort food ruled.
Make-Ahead Options
This soup actually improves when made a day ahead, as the flavors have time to meld and develop. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Always keep the tots separate and bake them fresh just before serving to maintain their essential crispiness.
Creative Variations
Turn this versatile soup into multiple meals by changing the garnishes and toppings. Swap the tots for crushed tortilla chips for a more traditional approach. For a breakfast version, top with a fried egg and avocado slices. Create a loaded baked potato vibe by adding shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream alongside the tots. The soup base provides the perfect canvas for countless variations.
Serving Suggestions
This soup creates a memorable meal when served with a simple side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For heartier appetites, add warm flour tortillas or cornbread on the side. Consider setting up a topping bar with various garnishes like diced avocado, different hot sauces, lime wedges, and shredded cheese to let everyone customize their bowl. This interactive approach makes the meal especially fun for families or casual entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the tater tots separately and reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- → What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, try cooking and shredding chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or pre-cooked frozen chicken.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
To make it less spicy, reduce or omit the green chiles and skip the hot sauce. For more heat, add extra green chiles, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños.
- → Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the sour cream and heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The flavors will still be delicious and creamy.
- → How can I keep the tater tots crispy?
Serve the tater tots immediately after baking, and store them separately from the soup if saving leftovers. Reheat the tots in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispness.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
The soup base can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Avoid freezing the tater tots as they lose their texture when thawed. Reheat the soup on the stovetop, and prepare fresh tots when serving.