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Mexican Chicken Soup

This Mexican chicken soup is a comforting and vibrant dish that combines tender shredded chicken with bright lime, smoky cumin, and fresh vegetables. The broth is light yet flavorful, with a final texture that’s warm, slightly chunky, and inviting. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels both hearty and lively.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes canned or fresh in season
  • 1 cup corn kernels frozen, thawed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans rinsed and drained
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness for quick cooking
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 lime lime juiced, plus extra slices for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • a handful cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons & cups

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook until lightly browned on both sides, about 7 minutes. Use a spoon or tongs to turn them occasionally, and you'll see the edges get a nice golden hue.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes along with cumin. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
  4. Remove the chicken breasts from the soup and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine.
  5. Add the corn, rinsed black beans, and chopped cilantro to the soup. Stir well, then squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Let the soup simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify and the vegetables to soften slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lime or salt if needed.
  7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cilantro and lime slices. Enjoy it with your favorite tortilla chips or a warm piece of bread for a complete meal.