Introduction
This Tex-Mex Chicken and Black Bean Soup is a quick and delicious dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Perfect for a busy day, this hearty soup can be made in just 15 minutes using only five main ingredients. It’s an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breast, diced – 400 grams
– Black beans, canned – 400 grams, rinsed and drained
– Chicken broth – 1 liter
– Chopped tomatoes, canned – 400 grams
– Corn, canned – 300 grams, drained
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is minimal, taking about 5 minutes to gather and prepare the ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 10 minutes. Therefore, the total time for this recipe is 15 minutes. This recipe yields around 4 servings, making it ideal for families or leftovers for lunch the next day.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients for the soup. This includes chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and chicken broth.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, add a little oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Once the chicken is browned, add in the diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans to the pot.
Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth
Next, pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that all ingredients are submerged. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Season the Soup
Season the mixture with your preferred spices. Common options include cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 7: Shred the Chicken
After simmering, remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 8: Serve the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, you can garnish with fresh herbs or cheese if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Ingredient Variations
Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
Note 2: Make It Spicy
For a spicier version, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup while it simmers.
Note 3: Storage Instructions
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This technique helps to enhance the flavors of the ingredients and is particularly effective for vegetables and meats, like chicken, to develop a nice golden color.
Simmering
Simmering is the cooking method where food is cooked in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique allows flavors to meld together while keeping ingredients tender, making it ideal for soups and stews.
Chopping
Chopping is the process of cutting ingredients into smaller pieces to prepare them for cooking. Uniform chopping ensures even cooking, particularly for vegetables and proteins, improving the overall texture of the dish.
Seasoning
Seasoning enhances the flavor of the dish and balances the overall taste. It involves the use of herbs, spices, salt, and pepper, added at various stages of cooking to build layers of flavor throughout the dish.
Stirring
Stirring consistently during cooking helps to evenly distribute heat and prevent sticking or burning, especially in soups. It’s a crucial technique to ensure all ingredients are well combined and cook uniformly.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare the soup?
Preparation typically takes about 15 minutes, with an additional time for cooking depending on the specific steps involved.
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can substitute black beans with other varieties such as pinto or kidney beans, depending on your taste preferences.
Is this recipe easy to modify for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe can be easily adapted to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian by adjusting the ingredients accordingly.
What can I serve with the soup?
The soup can be complemented with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor and texture.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, the soup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
Conclusion
This Tex-Mex Chicken and Black Bean Soup is a quick and delightful meal that brings together a blend of flavors in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy days while still being nutritious and satisfying. The combination of chicken, black beans, and spices creates a hearty dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Black Bean Tacos
Transform the black beans from the soup into spicy tacos. Add diced onions, cheese, and your favorite salsa for a quick meal.
Chicken Fajitas
Use the same Tex-Mex spices to sauté chicken strips with bell peppers and onions for a flavorful fajita night.
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Combine cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a light and healthy salad, drizzled with lime dressing.
Tex-Mex Veggie Stir-Fry
Stir-fry a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions in Tex-Mex spices, and serve over rice or quinoa for a vegetarian option.
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
Roll shredded chicken and black beans in tortillas, top with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake for a comforting dish.
Loaded Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with black beans, chicken, cheese, jalapeños, and your choice of toppings for a fun appetizer or snack.