Salsa Chicken Soup Recipe - cookallfood.com

Mexican Chicken Soup: A Flavorful and Healthy Comfort Food

Introduction

Mexican Chicken Soup is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in a comforting and nourishing meal. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can have a steaming bowl of soup that’s packed with tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a mix of vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s also Weight Watchers approved, making it a guilt-free option for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal.

Soup has long been a staple in many cultures, valued for its simplicity, versatility, and ability to warm the soul. This Mexican Chicken Soup is no exception. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, all while delivering a burst of flavor in every spoonful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof, ensuring that you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

The Appeal of Mexican Chicken Soup

Mexican cuisine is known for its rich, bold flavors, and this soup captures that essence perfectly. The combination of cumin, garlic, and salsa creates a fragrant and flavorful base that’s complemented by the addition of tender chicken, sweet corn, and tangy tomatoes. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Whether you prefer it mild or with a bit of heat, you can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

One of the great things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove for hours. The use of salsa as a key ingredient is a clever shortcut that adds depth of flavor without the need for a long list of spices. It’s a perfect example of how a few well-chosen ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Ingredients Breakdown

This Mexican Chicken Soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich and satisfying dish.

Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, olive oil adds a subtle richness to the soup. It’s a heart-healthy fat that helps to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
White Onion: Onions are a foundational ingredient in many soups, adding a sweet and savory flavor. In this recipe, the onion is sautéed until tender, providing a flavorful base for the soup.
Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that’s essential in Mexican cuisine. It pairs beautifully with the cumin and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Ground Cumin: Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that’s commonly used in Mexican cooking. It adds depth and a slightly smoky flavor to the soup, making it more complex and satisfying.
Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth: The broth forms the base of the soup, providing a savory and flavorful liquid that ties all the ingredients together. Using reduced-sodium broth allows you to control the salt content of the soup, making it a healthier option.
Diced Tomatoes: Tomatoes add a tangy sweetness to the soup, balancing the savory flavors of the broth and chicken. They also contribute to the rich color and texture of the soup.
Frozen Corn Kernels: Corn adds a touch of sweetness and a pleasant texture to the soup. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into the dish, and the frozen corn is convenient and easy to use.
Fat-Free Salsa: Salsa is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding a burst of flavor without the need for additional seasonings. It’s made from a blend of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that complements the other ingredients.
Cooked Shredded Chicken: Chicken adds protein and substance to the soup, making it more filling and satisfying. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook the chicken specifically for this recipe.
Cilantro (Optional): Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens up the soup. It’s an optional garnish, but it’s highly recommended for those who enjoy the flavor of cilantro.
Sour Cream, Shredded Cheddar Cheese, and Tortilla Chips (Optional): These optional toppings add richness, creaminess, and crunch to the soup, making it even more indulgent. They’re a great way to customize the soup to your liking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender and translucent, about 8 minutes. The onion and garlic form the aromatic base of the soup, providing a depth of flavor that’s essential to the dish.
Add the Cumin: Stir in the ground cumin and cook for 1 minute. This step helps to toast the cumin, releasing its oils and intensifying its flavor. The cumin adds a warm, earthy note to the soup, making it more complex and satisfying.
Add the Broth, Tomatoes, Corn, and Salsa: Pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth, diced tomatoes, frozen corn kernels, and salsa. Stir to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The salsa adds a burst of flavor, while the tomatoes and corn contribute sweetness and texture.
Add the Chicken: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and continue to cook until the chicken is heated through, about 2-3 minutes. The chicken should be tender and fully incorporated into the soup. If you’re using raw chicken, refer to the note in the recipe for instructions on how to cook it before adding it to the soup.
Add Cilantro (Optional): If you’re using cilantro, stir it in just before serving. Cilantro adds a fresh, bright flavor that complements the richness of the soup. It’s a great finishing touch, but it’s completely optional depending on your taste preferences.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. If desired, top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and a handful of tortilla chips. These toppings add a creamy, cheesy, and crunchy element that takes the soup to the next level.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Chicken Soup

Use Quality Ingredients: Since this soup is made with simple ingredients, using high-quality products will make a big difference in the final flavor. Opt for organic chicken broth, fresh garlic, and a good-quality salsa for the best results.
Adjust the Heat: If you like your soup spicy, choose a hot salsa or add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, stick with a mild salsa and omit any additional heat.
Make It Your Own: This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it to your liking. Add black beans for extra protein and fiber, or throw in some chopped bell peppers for added color and crunch.
Leftover Chicken: This soup is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Whether it’s from a roast chicken, a rotisserie chicken, or even grilled chicken, simply shred it and add it to the soup.
Cooking with Raw Chicken: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can cook the chicken in the same pot before starting the soup. Brown the chicken in the olive oil until fully cooked, then remove it from the pan and set it aside. Continue with the recipe as directed, and add the chicken back in once the soup is simmering.
Garnishes: Don’t skip the garnishes! Sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and tortilla chips add a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor. They also make the soup more indulgent and satisfying.

Nutritional Benefits

This Mexican Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key nutritional benefits:

Protein: The chicken in this soup provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Each serving of soup contains about 18 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and filling meal.
Vitamins and Minerals: The tomatoes, corn, and salsa in this soup contribute a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. These nutrients support immune function, heart health, and overall wellness.
Low in Calories: With just 167 calories per serving, this soup is a great option for those watching their calorie intake. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
High in Fiber: The vegetables and salsa in this soup add fiber, which is important for digestive health. Fiber helps to keep you full and satisfied, making this soup a great choice for a balanced meal.
Heart-Healthy Fats: The olive oil used in this recipe provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help to lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Serving Suggestions

With Tortilla Chips: Serve the soup with a side of tortilla chips, either plain or seasoned. The crunchy chips are perfect for dipping into the soup, adding a delightful texture contrast. You can also crush a few chips and sprinkle them on top of the soup for an extra bit of crunch.
With Mexican Rice: Pair the soup with a side of Mexican rice for a more filling meal. The rice can help soak up the flavorful broth and makes the meal even heartier. You can either serve the rice on the side or mix it directly into the soup for a comforting one-bowl meal.
With Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices add a creamy, rich element to the soup that pairs beautifully with the tangy salsa and savory broth. The avocado also adds healthy fats and additional nutrients to the meal.
With Quesadillas: A cheese quesadilla on the side makes for a perfect complement to this soup. The melted cheese and crispy tortilla are a great match for the warm, flavorful broth of the soup.
With Cornbread: Although not traditionally Mexican, a slice of warm cornbread can be a delicious accompaniment to this soup. The slightly sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory, spicy flavors of the soup.

Variations of Mexican Chicken Soup

One of the best things about this Mexican Chicken Soup recipe is its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, to make the soup heartier and provide additional protein.
Spicy Chicken Soup: If you like your soup with a kick, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the soup while it simmers. You can also use a spicy salsa to increase the heat level.
Creamy Mexican Chicken Soup: For a creamier version, stir in half a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving. This will give the soup a richer texture and a tangy flavor. You can also add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Mexican Chicken and Rice Soup: Add cooked rice or quinoa to the soup to make it more filling. The grains will soak up some of the broth, making the soup thicker and heartier.
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup: For a more traditional Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup, add strips of fried corn tortillas directly into the soup just before serving. The tortillas will soften and add a delicious texture to the soup.
Low-Carb Mexican Chicken Soup: For a low-carb version, omit the corn and substitute with more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb, grain-free option.

Storing and Reheating Mexican Chicken Soup

This Mexican Chicken Soup is a great dish to make ahead of time, as it stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to store and reheat your soup:

Storing in the Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Freezing the Soup: This soup also freezes well, making it a perfect meal prep option. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating Tips: When reheating the soup, you may need to add a little extra broth or water, as the soup can thicken as it sits. Stir the soup occasionally as it heats to ensure it warms evenly and the ingredients are well combined.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Chicken Soup is a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again. Here’s why:

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious, homemade soup on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices, salsa, and chicken broth creates a rich and flavorful soup that’s incredibly satisfying. The addition of vegetables and tender chicken makes it a well-rounded meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.
Healthy and Nutritious: This soup is low in calories and packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without feeling weighed down.
Customizable: Whether you prefer your soup mild or spicy, with or without chicken, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste. You can also add your favorite toppings and sides to make it your own.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner over the next few days.

Conclusion

Mexican Chicken Soup is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting meal on a chilly day, or a healthy option that’s still satisfying, this soup has you covered. The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and bold Mexican spices makes it a dish that everyone will love.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this soup is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. And with so many ways to customize it, you can make it your own, adding your favorite toppings, sides, or extra ingredients to suit your taste.

So why not give this Mexican Chicken Soup a try? It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth, flavor, and comfort to your table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this soup is a surefire way to impress and satisfy. Enjoy!