Kickin’ Chicken Soup Recipe
Overview:
Kickin’ Chicken Soup is a vibrant and hearty one-pot wonder that brings together tender chicken, flavorful broth, and a medley of vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Bursting with spicy jalapeno, sweet corn, and creamy black beans, this soup is perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. With its zesty kick and comforting aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Recipe Information:
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 245 per serving
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
- Review Count: 1
- Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Chicken, Poultry, Black Beans, Corn, Onions, Peppers, Beans, Vegetable, Meat, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Spicy, Broil/Grill, < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 3 onions
- 1 garlic clove
- 3 jalapeno chilies
- 1 low sodium chicken broth
- 4 cups corn kernels
- 3 cups black beans
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cilantro
- Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, crumbled (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your broiler.
- Place the chicken breasts on a broiler pan or baking sheet.
- Cook under the broiler for about 10 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned.
- Alternatively, if you prefer, you can grill the chicken on an outdoor grill until cooked to perfection. This method adds a delightful smoky flavor to the chicken.
2. Prepare the Soup Base:
- While the chicken is cooking, heat a drizzle of oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
- Add the onions, garlic, and jalapeno chilies to the pot. Cook until softened, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes.
3. Bring It Together:
- Once the onions are soft, pour in the low sodium chicken broth, corn kernels, and black beans (undrained) into the pot.
- Squeeze in the juice of one lime for a burst of citrusy flavor.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Shred the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the broiler or grill.
- Slice or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife or forks.
5. Add the Chicken and Finish:
- Add the shredded chicken to the simmering soup base.
- Stir in the fresh cilantro to brighten up the flavors.
- Allow the soup to heat through for an additional minute, ensuring all ingredients are warmed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the Kickin’ Chicken Soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of chicken and vegetables.
- For an extra indulgent touch, top each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and crumbled tortilla chips.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth and flavorful goodness of this delicious soup!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 245
- Total Fat: 9.9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 23.2mg
- Sodium: 353.1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26.5g
- Dietary Fiber: 5.3g
- Sugars: 1.1g
- Protein: 15.7g
Tips and Variations:
- To make this soup even heartier, consider adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapeno chilies, according to your preference.
- For a creamy texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving.
- This soup reheats well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of warm crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Kickin’ Chicken Soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal on a chilly evening or need a quick and easy lunch option, this soup delivers on both taste and convenience. With its simple preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowlful of deliciousness with every spoonful!