Cher’s Chicken Chili Soup

This is a hearty soup that can easily be made from leftover chicken. It's great as a main course or can be served as a side dish to any Mexican or Tex-Mex meal.

Ingredients:

1medium onion, finely chopped

1 large bell pepper, finely chopped

1 Tbl. olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

2 qts. homemade chicken stock

1/2 to 1 tsp. chili powder

1/2 to 1 tsp. cumin

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 to 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 Tbl. dried onion flakes

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. ground black pepper

1 can diced tomatoes

1 can sweet whole kernel corn (or hominy)

1 can kidney or black beans

2 cups shredded cooked chicken

Toppings:

Chopped green onions

Sour cream

Sliced jalapenos

Shredded cheese

Oyster crackers

Cilantro

Directions:

1. Sauté onion and green pepper in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and cook for two minutes more.
2. Pour chicken stock into large pot over medium high heat and add sautéed vegetables.
3. Add the next seven ingredients, holding back half of the chili powder, cumin and cayenne pepper.
4. Add the next three ingredients, including the liquid from the cans.
5. Stir in chicken.
6. Once the soup comes to a full boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding the reserved spices if needed.
8. Serve hot and offer garnishes at table.