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Healthy Mexican Chicken Soup

Healthy Mexican Chicken Soup

Healthy Mexican Chicken Soup is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and authentic Mexican spices. This wholesome soup offers a comforting and nutritious meal that balances hearty textures with bright, zesty flavors. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s easy to prepare and adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins and Beans

  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced or shredded
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)

Liquids and Broth

  • 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Herbs and Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Garnishes

  • Diced avocado
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Thinly sliced radishes
  • Cotija cheese
  • Crushed chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until fragrant and translucent, creating a savory foundation for the soup.
  2. Add Spices and Veggies: Sprinkle in ground cumin, chili powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to toast the spices and release their aromas. Then add diced bell peppers and cook for about 2 minutes to soften.
  3. Combine Chicken and Broth: Add diced or shredded chicken breast, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, gently stir everything together, and bring to a simmer.
  4. Simmer and Develop Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This ensures the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld together into a rich, balanced broth.
  5. Finish with Freshness: Just before serving, stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro to brighten and enliven the soup’s flavors.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken for a richer flavor, shredding the meat once cooked.
  • Prep vegetables and spices before starting for a smoother cooking process.
  • Adjust chili powder gradually to control the spice level.
  • Skim any fat from the surface during simmering for a lighter soup.
  • Add lime juice last to preserve its bright, zesty flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican chicken soup, healthy chicken soup, gluten free soup, quick chicken soup, nutritious soup, Mexican flavors