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.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Mexican chicken soup, healthy chicken soup, gluten free soup, quick chicken soup, nutritious soup, Mexican flavors