If you're looking to spice up your weeknight meals, Zesty Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup might just be what you need. This hearty dish is packed with flavors that transport you straight to the Southwest, featuring tender chicken, black beans, and a medley of spices. As you explore the recipe, you'll discover simple techniques to elevate this comforting soup, ensuring it becomes a favorite in your kitchen. Ready to uncover the secrets behind this delicious dish?
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- This Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup features a zesty blend of spices, including cumin and chili powder, for vibrant flavor.
- Incorporate black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies for added texture and zest in the soup.
- Optional toppings like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and lime enhance the zesty experience when served.
- Customize the recipe by adding smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for an extra kick of flavor.
- The soup is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, perfect for busy weeknights.
How To Make It – Recipe
Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings together a delightful mix of spices, vegetables, and tender chicken. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying. With its rich blend of ingredients, including black beans, corn, and tomatoes, it offers a taste of the Southwest in every spoonful. Not only is it delicious, but it's also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family. Homemade Chicken Soup is a classic comfort food that many enjoy, making this recipe a great addition to any meal rotation.
To make this dish even more appealing, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer chilies, or switch out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. This soup is versatile and can be served as a main course, paired with crusty bread, or even as a starter to a larger meal.
Let's plunge into the ingredients and cooking instructions for this delightful Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers, sautéing until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving, which will brighten the soup and enhance its flavor. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last few minutes of cooking.
Additionally, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing the flavors to deepen. If freezing, be sure to leave out the cilantro and lime until serving to maintain freshness. Enjoy your Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup!
Substitution Suggestions
Wondering how to make this soup even more your own? You've got plenty of ingredient alternatives at your fingertips!
Swap out chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. If you're craving a bolder taste, consider using smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for flavor enhancements.
You can also experiment with different beans, like black or pinto, to enrich the texture. For a touch of sweetness, throw in some corn or diced sweet potatoes.
Don't forget to adjust the spices to suit your taste—cumin, oregano, and cilantro can elevate this dish to new heights! Additionally, using a low-sodium broth can help keep your soup both flavorful and healthy. Enjoy your personalized creation!
Serving Suggestions
A warm bowl of Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup is perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
To elevate your soup, consider various garnish options like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick.
If you want to impress your guests, serve the soup alongside crunchy tortilla chips or a light salad drizzled with vinaigrette.
For a heartier meal, pair it with warm cornbread or quesadillas. Delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup can also make a great accompaniment, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
These side dishes not only complement the flavors but also create a delightful dining experience, making your Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup the star of the table.
Enjoy!
Make-Ahead and Storage
If you're looking to enjoy your Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup at a later time, making it ahead of time is a fantastic option.
This soup is freezer friendly, so you can easily prepare a big batch and portion it out for future meals. Simply let it cool before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags.
Label them with the date, and you'll have delicious, homemade soup ready for busy days. Meal prep becomes a breeze when you can grab your soup from the freezer, ensuring you always have a comforting bowl of zesty goodness on hand. Additionally, this Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is perfect for a hearty meal that's both nutritious and satisfying.
Enjoy the convenience!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing and reheating your Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup properly guarantees you can savor its vibrant flavors even after the first serving.
For leftover storage, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It'll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for longer enjoyment. Homemade chicken soup can be a nutritious meal option that is both comforting and satisfying.
When you're ready to indulge again, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Enjoy every spicy, zesty spoonful just as much as the first!
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
Once you've enjoyed your Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup and saved some for later, it's worth knowing what you're fueling your body with. Each serving packs around 300 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy choice.
The ingredient breakdown reveals lean chicken, vibrant veggies, and aromatic spices, providing essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. You'll also get a nice dose of fiber from the beans and corn, promoting digestion. Additionally, this soup is DF GF, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
With healthy fats from olive oil, this soup balances nutritious ingredients without sacrificing flavor. So, when you savor your next bowl, you can feel good about what you're nourishing yourself with!
Final Thoughts
As you take the last sip of your Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup, it's clear that this dish transcends mere nourishment; it offers a delightful culinary experience.
This soup embodies comfort food at its finest, warming you from the inside out. The vibrant blend of seasonal ingredients, like fresh peppers and hearty chicken, elevates each spoonful, creating a symphony of flavors. The addition of cream of chicken soup adds a rich and creamy twist that enhances the overall taste.
You've not just enjoyed a meal; you've savored a moment. Whether it's a chilly evening or a gathering with friends, this recipe will certainly become a staple in your kitchen, bringing joy and warmth with every serving.
Enjoy the experience!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
"Don't put all your eggs in one basket!" You can definitely use frozen chicken, but remember, you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Make certain it cooks thoroughly for a delicious, safe meal. Enjoy your cooking!
What Type of Beans Work Best in This Soup?
For this soup, black beans add protein and fiber, enhancing its heartiness. Pinto beans bring a creamy texture and earthy flavors, creating a delicious contrast. You can't go wrong with either choice for a satisfying dish!
Is This Soup Suitable for a Gluten-Free Diet?
Yes, this soup can fit a gluten-free diet! Just guarantee you use gluten alternatives and check for cross contamination in your ingredients. With careful selection, you'll enjoy a delicious, worry-free meal that's flavorful and satisfying!
How Spicy Is the Zesty Santa Fe Style Chicken Soup?
Think of the soup as a flavor dance; its spice level adds a lively kick without overwhelming. You'll find a delightful flavor balance, where zesty notes waltz with savory ingredients, creating a satisfying, enjoyable experience.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Soup?
You can add more vegetables to your soup. Consider vegetable substitutions like zucchini or bell peppers for delightful soup variations. Just chop them up and stir them in for added flavor and nutrition!
